We’ve seen a growing trend from the electrical, control, and instrumentation professionals we’re working with, that choosing a new role is no longer just about salary. In fact, there are many different factors that are influencing role selection, and we’ll explore the main ones in this article.
Roles with real-world impact
Regardless of sector and role-type, whether it’s designing a safety-critical control system, commissioning a new SCADA solution, or upgrading aging switchgear, we’re finding many candidates really want to work on complex, purpose-driven projects.
This means for employers to engage with the best talent, they often must go beyond vague job descriptions. Highlighting the practical outcomes, technologies used, and cross-functional collaboration involved in a role makes a huge difference.
Training, certifications, and staying future-ready
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that in today’s employment market, personal and professional development continues to be a key factor, with workers looking for roles that provide training, support, and development opportunities. For example, candidates want to stay ahead of the curve with:
- CompEx, ATEX, or 18th Edition certifications
- OEM training (e.g. Siemens, Allen-Bradley)
- Access to new control systems (DCS/PLC upgrades)
- Opportunities for progression (e.g. moving from maintenance to project roles)
Offering a structured development path, providing on-the-job learning, and supporting continued competence is a proven way for employers to stand out and attract the best talent.
Fair shift patterns, flexibility, and time-off clarity
Let’s face it, many EC&I roles can involve irregular hours, callouts, and site work. But increasingly, what many engineering candidates really want in a new role is some flexibility, fairness, and forewarning. We know that not every role can adopt hybrid, flexible, or remote working opportunities, but the most attractive roles are honest about shift work and provide clarity on:
- Rota structures
- Time-off in lieu
- Travel or on-call allowances
- Support for work-life balance
It’s not always about offering remote work, it’s about showing respect for people’s time.
A strong, safety-first culture
In EC&I environments, safety isn’t a bonus, it’s a baseline. That’s why what engineering candidates really want in a new role is proof of a company’s safety standards and culture.
Perhaps surprisingly, candidates are actively asking about:
- PPE and tooling
- Risk assessments and permit systems
- Safety training and near-miss tracking
- Leadership attitude toward safety
So, a visible, consistent commitment to health and safety builds trust.
Transparent pay and long-term opportunities
Yes, salary matters — but so does transparency. What the candidates we speak to really want in a new role is a clear view of:
- Base pay or contract rates
- Overtime rules and expenses
- Benefits or bonuses
- Career progression or internal promotion options
If you’re vague on the numbers or the future path, expect candidates to lose interest quickly.
The bottom line
So, what do candidates really want in a new role?
It’s a combination of:
- Interesting, hands-on projects
- Ongoing development and relevant certifications
- Fair, predictable working arrangements
- A safe and supported environment
- Transparent, honest communication from the start
At EC&I Partners, we understand the technical requirements and the human ones, helping both candidates and employers make the right move.
Talk to our team today, and let us help you.
