SWISS SKILLS SHORTAGE INDEX Q1 2018

The skills shortage is also high in technical professions. Nicole Burth commented: “It is very difficult for companies to fill such vacancies. Unfortunately, there still aren’t enough women completing education in classic MINT occupations (maths, information technology, science and technology).”

Engineering jobs are in third place, while fourth place is held by medical and pharmaceutical professions. Although slightly less pronounced than in the previous year, there is still an acute doctor shortage, and many hospitals and practices are searching very actively for qualified staff.

IT professions are in fifth place. The specialist shortage in these sectors has also worsened in comparison to the previous year’s first quarter. An unemployed individual will currently find more vacant positions than one year ago.

The final spot in the skills shortage rankings in non-German-speaking Switzerland consists of occupations in textile manufacturing, printing and warehousing – similar to Switzerland as a whole. “Due to automation and production outsourcing abroad, there are hardly any employment prospects in this sector. The majority of the workforce should therefore undertake retraining and perhaps even learn a new trade,” said Helen Buchs from the University of Zurich’s Swiss Job Market Monitor.