JOB prospects in Yorkshire are at their lowest level for more than a year according to global recruitment firm Manpower.

The firm says that while the regional employment situation outlook remains positive, its Employment Outlook barometer has tumbled by eight per cent since the previous quarter.

Manpower says its Employment Outlook Survey, based on responses from more than 2,000 UK employers, is the most comprehensive of its kind and is used as a key economic statistic by both the Bank of England and the UK government.

Amanda White, Manpower operations manager, said that in spite of the falling index, the Yorkshire jobs scene remained buoyant.

She said: “Despite the fall in optimism compared to last quarter, we shouldn’t forget that the jobs outlook is still in positive territory and the market remains buoyant in Yorkshire and Humberside. “ The latest survey revealed that many candidates remained cautious about looking for new roles even though economic conditions were improving leaving many employers struggling to fill vacancies.

Amanda said: “For example, we’re seeing skills shortages across engineering and IT roles, as well as jobs requiring secretarial skills or sales experience.

“Gaining transferable skills always helps those who are out of work or looking for the next opportunity on the jobs ladder. Research is also crucial. Ahead of an interview, we always encourage candidates to take the time to find out about the company and the role.”

Manpower said the national jobs outlook for 2015 was positive following a ‘jobs bonanza this year which saw the highest level of job creation in 40 years.

Britain’s biggest companies are set to lead the job creation charge in early 2015 with more planning to hire staff than at any point in the last decade.

“Many big businesses built up large cash reserves in the downturn. Now that confidence is returning,” Amanda said.