Contracting Rates in Northern Ireland

[Mailman_1]

I was offered a Packaging role for £450 a day in Belfast a few months ago. DV required also. The rates are there. Just need to find them.

[The_Equalizer]

Althought I've been reading this board for a good two years now I thought it about time to add my bit having lived in NI for about 10 years now. As you know NI is a very small market, although that said there's a bit of shortage of people at present - or at least that's my understanding from a quick feel of the market. I have just quit my job to head back to Blighty, but would be quite happpy - should anything suitable turn up - to stay there. The alternative is Manchester. Anyway, I know of a reasonable Java type who was on £300/day, but that seems to be the contracting limit at present. Not sure about the DV stuff mind you. As you'll know NI has (or at least us to) lots of clever people that would rather spend 20 minutes getting to work in their car than shove themselves over the coals in London.

Anyway, point being is there's certain shortage, but employers are still in the mind-set that NI's a cheap market. I'd suggest contacting the usual pimps (Diamond etc) and see from there.

[mikeyboy]

Northern Ireland certainly does have a lot going for it in terms of quality of life. Hence me being so interested in the contract market there.
When I worked there fulltime I had a 20 minute commute from Bangor to Belfast every morning. Atmosphere in the office was always fun but professional. Plenty of banter and the "work hard, play hard" attitude was very evident. Unfortunately more and more of my work involved flying between NI and the Mainland and spending 80% of my time away from home with no financial compensation. That's why I jacked it in and started contracting around the UK. If I have to travel I may as well get paid a decent amount for it.
The recent peace has caused a property boom and with NI salaries lagging behind those elsewhere in the UK, most places are now beyond the reach of your average Joe. They have some top quality graduates there but they are mostly lured abroad by better packages. The IT industry in NI needs to start offering competitive salaries.

[Turion]

You said in another post you have got a contract starting in Belgium in April.

[mikeyboy]

That's right. But I'm still interested in finding something at home.

[Turion]

I can see why because my post about Mons was not so complimentary. Unless they are paying good rates, or you can't find anythingelse, you are better off elsewhere if you want a life outside or work.