JCB to create 600 new jobs due to 'unprecedented global demand'

200 positions; including welders, paint sprayers and assemblers, will be needed immediately
200 positions; including welders, paint sprayers and assemblers, will be needed immediately

Agricultural machinery giant JCB will create six-hundred new jobs in the next three months due to "unprecedented global demand" for its equipment.

British-based JCB said 200 jobs will start immediately; including welders, paint sprayers and assemblers. A further 400 staff will be required within 12 weeks.

Worldwide growth in the construction sector has led to record demand for JCB's products, which are manufactured at its Rocester, Cheadle, Rugeley and Foston, Derbyshire plants.

JCB Chief Operating Officer, Mark Turner said it is "great news" for the local economy and for anyone seeking to work with a "globally successful business."

"We know the cities of Stoke-on-Trent, Derby and surrounding towns have people with the skills we need, and in return they can expect excellent rewards. We urgently need fabrication welding skills along with paint sprayers, and general assemblers who will be given full training," Mr Turner said.

“The opportunities are initially for agency employees, however we see them as long-term opportunities – in fact, in the first three months of 2018 we have given permanent contracts to 200 agency staff. That means over the past four years we have handed permanent contracts to 850 agency employees.

“The future is very bright for JCB as global demand for our machines continues to grow, which means great prospects for people who want to work with us.”

The new roles pay a minimum of £10.40 per hour for Monday to Friday working hours, with a premium paid for shift-work opportunities.