By Mushfi 
Hastings, a charming town on England’s southeast coast, is renowned for its rich history and cultural significance. Famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this coastal gem has evolved into a vibrant hub of economic activity. Beyond its historical allure, Hastings boasts a dynamic job market with diverse opportunities across various sectors. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the employment landscape in Hastings, focusing on key industries, job openings, labour market statistics, and resources for job seekers.
Economic Overview of Hastings
Over the years, Hastings has undergone a remarkable economic transformation. Once heavily reliant on fishing and tourism, the town has expanded its economic foundation to include thriving sectors like manufacturing, information technology, healthcare, and education. This diversification has not only strengthened Hastings’ economy but also made it more resilient to external economic shifts.
As a result, Hastings has become a promising destination for professionals seeking employment in a variety of fields. Its strategic location, coupled with ongoing investments in infrastructure and innovation, positions it as an attractive hub for both businesses and job seekers.
Key Industries and Employment Sectors
1. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
The ICT sector in Hastings has experienced exponential growth in recent years. Between 2021 and 2024, employment in this sector increased by an impressive 40%, reflecting the town’s adaptation to the digital age. This growth has been driven by the rising demand for tech professionals skilled in areas like software development, IT support, and digital marketing.
Hastings’ ICT landscape is bolstered by local businesses and startups embracing digital transformation, creating opportunities for both experienced professionals and recent graduates.
2. Manufacturing
Manufacturing remains a vital pillar of Hastings’ economy, contributing to 10.3% of the town’s employment. The sector encompasses a wide range of activities, from traditional manufacturing processes to advanced engineering solutions.
Roles in manufacturing include production supervisors, quality assurance specialists, and machine operators. This sector not only offers stable employment but also plays a critical role in sustaining the town’s economic growth.
3. Healthcare
The healthcare sector is another cornerstone of Hastings’ economy, offering a variety of roles for clinical and non-clinical professionals. Institutions such as the East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust provide numerous job opportunities, including advanced clinical practitioners, dietitians, nurses, and administrative staff.
The healthcare industry in Hastings is known for its focus on community well-being, making it an appealing sector for individuals passionate about making a difference.
4. Education
Education is a key area of employment in Hastings, with local schools, colleges, and training institutions frequently seeking qualified professionals. Positions for teachers, particularly in subjects like Geography and History, highlight the town’s commitment to providing quality education.
Educational support roles, such as Behaviour Buddies, emphasize the importance of student well-being and holistic development, further enriching the employment landscape.
Current Job Opportunities
As of December 2024, Hastings offers a wide range of job openings across various sectors. Some notable opportunities include:
Sales Support Engineer – Technical Imaging
This role involves providing technical solutions in the imaging sector, reflecting the town’s growing emphasis on technology-driven industries.
Credit Controller
Opportunities in financial management highlight the demand for professionals adept at managing accounts and ensuring fiscal stability.
Plumbing Assessor
Positions in vocational training and assessment underscore the importance of skilled trades in Hastings’ economy, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified workers.
Behaviour Buddy
This educational support role focuses on enhancing student well-being and behavioral development, showcasing the town’s dedication to holistic education.
Labour Market Statistics
Labour market data provides valuable insights into Hastings’ economic health and employment trends. From July 2023 to June 2024, the employment rate among individuals aged 16-64 in Hastings and Rye was 73.6%, slightly below the South East average of 79.6%.
The economic inactivity rate stood at 15.9%, indicating a segment of the population not actively participating in the labour market due to reasons such as education, caregiving, or retirement. Understanding these statistics is crucial for job seekers and employers aiming to navigate the local job market effectively.
Average Salaries
The average salary in Hastings is approximately £27,000 per annum, though this figure can vary significantly depending on the industry, role, and level of experience.
ICT Sector: Professionals in ICT often command higher salaries, with roles like software development and IT project management offering annual packages exceeding £35,000.
Manufacturing: Wages in manufacturing are competitive, especially for skilled positions like engineering technicians and production managers.
Healthcare and Education: Salaries in these sectors are aligned with national averages, with additional benefits for public sector roles.
Job Search Resources
Job seekers in Hastings can leverage several platforms and organizations to find employment opportunities:
Indeed: A comprehensive platform featuring job listings across various industries and levels of experience.
Reed: Offers a wide range of job opportunities along with career development resources.
Hastings Borough Council: Provides information on local government jobs and opportunities in the public and charity sectors.
CV-Library: A robust database of job listings, allowing candidates to connect directly with employers in Hastings.
These resources are invaluable for navigating the local job market and securing rewarding positions.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its promising job market, Hastings faces certain challenges. Economic inactivity remains a concern, with 26% of the working-age population not participating in the labour force. Additionally, a recent slowdown in recruitment indicates cautious hiring practices by employers.
Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts between local authorities, businesses, and job seekers. Initiatives aimed at upskilling the workforce and fostering economic inclusivity can significantly enhance Hastings’ employment landscape.
Wrapping Up
Hastings offers a diverse and evolving job market, with opportunities spanning sectors like ICT, manufacturing, healthcare, and education. While challenges such as economic inactivity and cautious recruitment practices persist, the town’s economic diversification and growth provide a strong foundation for future employment prospects.
By utilizing available resources and staying informed about industry trends, job seekers can unlock rewarding career opportunities in this historic coastal town. Hastings continues to be a place where history meets modernity, offering a blend of cultural richness and professional growth.
FAQs
What are the major industries in Hastings?
The major industries include ICT, manufacturing, healthcare, and education, offering a wide range of job opportunities.
What is the average salary in Hastings?
The average salary is approximately £27,000 per year, with variations depending on the industry and role.
Where can I find job listings in Hastings?
Job seekers can explore platforms like Indeed, Reed, CV-Library, and the Hastings Borough Council website for comprehensive listings.
What challenges does Hastings’ job market face?
Challenges include economic inactivity and cautious recruitment practices by employers.
How has the ICT sector grown in Hastings?
The ICT sector has grown by 40% between 2021 and 2024, driven by digital advancements and the increasing demand for tech professionals.
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