Graduates Seek Public-Sector Jobs - graduate jobs

Half of graduates and private-sector employees would take a pay cut for the job security of a career in the public sector, according to a new survey.

It has found that almost three quarters of private-sector workers fear that they may lose their jobs as the recession worsens in the year ahead.

Meanwhile, the threat of 600,000 private-sector job losses has caused half of middle-class property owners to fear that they could lose their homes because they are struggling to pay their mortgages.

In a survey of 800 workers during December, Hays found a resurgence of appeal among many for the security of public-sector occupations.

Recently advertised positions that would appeal to workers disillusioned by corporate life include a head of transformation and modernisation at the London borough of Hounslow on an annual salary of between £73,805 to £85,459.

Neath Port Talbot council is seeking a corporate director of social services, health and housing at up to £108,000 a year.

The survey found that 72% of private-sector workers would consider a public-sector job, while 54% said they would be willing to take a pay cut for improved job security in the public sector.