The Rise of Automation and New Energy Jobs in China: A Sign of Digitalization and Green Growth

In the ever-evolving global landscape, the job market is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by technological advancements and environmental concerns. This report delves into the remarkable surge in job postings for industrial automation and new energy positions in China, highlighting the country’s commitment to digitalization and green industries.

Robust Growth in Industrial Automation and New Energy

Data from Zhilian Zhaopin, a leading online recruitment platform in China, reveals a remarkable surge in job postings for industrial automation and new energy positions. In the first half of 2023, job postings in the new-energy industry witnessed a staggering 36% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Industrial automation job postings also experienced a steady growth of 7%, indicating a robust demand for skilled professionals in these fields.

Factors Driving the Growth

The remarkable growth in industrial automation and new energy jobs in China can be attributed to several key factors:

Government Policies:

The Chinese government’s concerted focus on digitalization and green growth has created a fertile environment for these industries to flourish. Policies such as the “Made in China 2025” plan and the “Energy Conservation and New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Plan” have provided significant impetus to the growth of industrial automation and new energy sectors.

Technological Advancements:

Rapid advancements in automation technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), have fueled the demand for skilled professionals in industrial automation. Similarly, the growing adoption of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, has created job opportunities in the new-energy industry.

Market Demand:

The increasing demand for automation solutions across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare, has contributed to the growth of industrial automation jobs. The rising emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability has also driven the demand for professionals in the new-energy sector.

Key Job Roles in Demand

The report identifies specific job roles that are experiencing high demand in both industrial automation and new energy industries:

Industrial Automation:

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechanical Design
  • Quality Management/Testing
  • Robotics Engineering
  • Automation Engineering

New Energy:

  • Windpower Engineers
  • Engineering Supervision
  • Solar Energy Engineers
  • Energy Storage Specialists
  • Renewable Energy Project Managers

Regional Trends

The report highlights the growing importance of second-tier cities in China’s job market. While first-tier cities continue to lead in terms of job-market growth, second-tier cities are witnessing a significant rise in job openings in industrial automation and new energy. Cities like Guangzhou and Foshan in Guangdong province have emerged as key hubs for these industries, driven by favorable policies and a strong manufacturing base.

Youth Participation and Skill Development

The report indicates a growing trend of young people gravitating towards emerging industries like industrial automation and new energy. The share of jobseekers aged 16 to 25 in these industries has increased significantly, reflecting the changing aspirations of the younger generation. However, the report also emphasizes the need for skill development and training programs to bridge the gap between industry requirements and the skills possessed by jobseekers.

Conclusion

The surge in job postings for industrial automation and new energy positions in China reflects the country’s commitment to digitalization and green growth. The demand for skilled professionals in these fields is expected to continue to rise as the government, businesses, and individuals embrace automation and renewable energy solutions. This trend not only highlights the evolving nature of China’s job market but also underscores the global shift towards a more sustainable and technology-driven future.