International recruitment specialist Hays has released the top ‘hot jobs’ for the second quarter of 2013, finding that insurance professionals, childcare staff and energy workers are among some of the most in demand skill sets.

Covering April to June this year, the hotspots show the emergence of pockets of shortages in very specific skills across a number of sectors, such as banking, childcare and energy.

Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays in Australia, says that the emerging demand for the skill sets is thanks in part to environmental factors.

“Candidates with personal line insurance backgrounds, such as Claims Consultants and Insurance Underwriters are in demand due to the recent storms and fires we have witnessed in New South Wales and Queensland,” Mr Deligiannis said.

“There is also demand for Early Childhood candidates due to an increase in childcare centres and centres preparing for the new regulations that take effect in 2014. There is currently a shortage of Early Childhood Teachers in the day care sector as these candidates often choose to work in primary schools or preschools where there can be shorter working hours, longer school holidays and there is more emphasis on teaching rather than childcare with better pay.

“We have also seen an increase in demand for Maintenance Trades Workers and Asset Managers in the transmission and distribution space within the energy sector. Where funding for upgrades has not eventuated in some states, the current networks are aging and more expertise is required to get the optimal performance and prolong the life of current assets.”

For the full list of skilled professionals in demand according to the Hays Quarterly Hotspots for April to June 2013, please go to www.hays.com.au/report