Mechanics, maintenance workers and builders in high demand in Ticino (cross-border guide)

Context

In brief

• Over 1,200 positions open in Italy
• Mechanics, maintenance workers, and construction workers are the most sought-after roles
• AI does not replace these professions

Key facts

• What: Open positions for mechanics, maintenance workers, and construction workers
• When: Current data
• Where: Italy, with a strong concentration in the North and Tuscany
• Who: Openjobmetis employment agency
• Amount: 1,200 positions open

The analysis by the Openjobmetis employment agency, led by Rosario Rasizza, highlights over 1,200 open positions across Italy, with a strong concentration in Lombardy, Veneto, and Tuscany. The Italian job market is in search of skilled technicians and workers, but cannot find them. Despite the rapid spread of artificial intelligence in every sector, companies continue to desperately need hands and practical skills: mechanics, industrial maintenance workers, and electricians remain the hardest to find. This is what emerges from the latest analysis conducted by Openjobmetis S.p.A., an employment agency based in Gallarate and active nationwide for 25 years.

The numbers speak for themselves and see at the top of the list of companies' wishes the profile of the mechanic, with 286 open positions that alone represent 24% of the national total. Immediately after come industrial maintenance workers (220 positions, equal to 18%) and on the third step of the podium construction workers (194 positions, equal to 16%). The ranking of 'hard-to-find' professions continues with drivers, electricians, welders, plumbers, and specialized technicians. These are roles that artificial intelligence cannot replace, but which at the same time are changing, increasingly often requiring familiarity with digital systems and automation.

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Operational details

From a geographical standpoint, Northern Italy and Tuscany take the lion's share. Veneto leads the ranking with 188 open positions, closely followed by Lombardy with 184 and Tuscany with 180. Together, these three regions represent a very significant portion of overall searches. Excellent numbers are also recorded in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, and Marche. In Central and Southern Italy, demand is more contained but still significant, driven by Sicily, Puglia, and Campania.

The difficulties are not only related to the number of available people but also to a 'gap' in skills, especially for complex roles such as CNC programmers or automation technicians. In addition to manual skills, companies today require the ability to read technical diagrams, use digital control systems, and manage predictive maintenance.

Skills Analysis

The skills required for these positions are constantly evolving. In addition to traditional technical skills, companies are looking for professionals who can use digital control systems and manage predictive maintenance. This means that cross-border workers who wish to work in these sectors should consider updating their skills.

Comparison with the Previous Situation

Compared to the past, Italian companies are becoming increasingly competitive in their efforts to attract qualified workers. This could mean that cross-border workers might find better working conditions and higher salaries. However, it is important to be aware of the tax implications and the procedures for obtaining a work permit and residing in Italy.

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Key points

The difficulties in finding candidates are due to the progressive misalignment between demand and supply of technical skills, the reduced perceived attractiveness of certain professional paths among new generations, and, in some cases, the limited availability of already trained and immediately operational profiles.

Procedure for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers interested in these opportunities, it is important to follow a clear procedure to obtain a work permit and reside in Italy. This might include applying for a residence permit and registering with the local authorities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the tax implications and the procedures for obtaining a work permit.

Useful tools

For cross-border workers who wish to work in Italy, it is possible to consult the salary calculator and the permit comparator on Frontaliere Ticino. These tools can help to better understand job opportunities and tax implications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the shortage of mechanics, maintenance workers, and construction workers in Italy represents an opportunity for cross-border workers who work in Ticino and reside in Italy. However, it is important to be aware of the tax implications and the procedures for obtaining a work permit and residing in Italy. Consulting an accountant or tax expert can help to comply with regulations.

For further information on job opportunities for cross-border workers, it is possible to consult the salary calculator and the permit comparator on Frontaliere Ticino.

Source: varesenews.it