ACTIA is launching a recruitment campaign in electronics production at its industrial showcase site, ACTIA Colomiers. Although the electronics production sector is expanding rapidly, ACTIA, like most companies in this sector, is facing a shortage of skilled labour.
To address this talent shortage, ACTIA, in partnership with the French public employment service (Pôle Emploi) and ADRAR, the professional training specialist, is turning to innovative recruitment methods such as the Simulation Recruitment Method (SRM). This method is used to identify the most suitable candidates, but who do not hold diplomas: they are given the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and expertise.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of using simulation tests to recruit wiring technicians, welders and electronics quality control inspectors, as well as the continuing education opportunities for professionals in this constantly evolving sector.
What is involved in the Simulation Recruitment Method?
The context of a shortage in skilled profiles
“We are experiencing a peak in activity at our electronics plant, driven in particular by the booming aviation, space and rail markets. But we are facing a major recruitment issue: there is no training giving rise to official qualifications that corresponds to our advanced electronics professions. Pôle Emploi suggested the Simulation Recruitment Method (SRM) to us: a way of recruiting quickly, without a CV or a diploma, based upon expertise and soft skills in the workplace instead.“ explains Claire Brière, Head of ACTIA recruitment.
explains Claire Brière, Head of ACTIA recruitment.
Job analysis is vital in SRM
Job analysis is a crucial step in determining the skills and behaviours required for a particular position, which is essential for designing appropriate and effective simulation tests. It determines the skills and behaviours to be assessed in candidates.
The process
“The process begins with a presentation of our professions during a collective information meeting at Pôle Emploi. People who are interested are then invited to take a series of tests, lasting approximately one afternoon. These tests are assessed using a threshold score that we have determined.” adds Claire Brière.
Skills targeted via Simulation Recruitment Method (SRM)
Simulation recruitment tests in the production of electronics consist of a series of practical exercises (or games) looking to assess the candidate’s skills in this field. Pôle Emploi and ACTIA are jointly designing a series of tests that are the best suited to assessing the required skills.
Amongst the skills targeted:
– Manual dexterity: to work with precision and efficiency,
– Teamwork skills: to carry out complex projects,
– Problem-solving skills: to solve problems which can arise during electronic wiring,
– Attention to detail: electronic wiring requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure the quality and reliability of the finished products,
– Ability to read design drawings and spatial projections,
– Stress management.
The candidate’s ability to keep to schedule and their productivity will also be assessed.
A proactive attitude and a quality-based approach
“For the positions of wiring technician, welder or quality control inspector, we are looking for candidates who have the technical skills to perform the tasks efficiently and to a high standard. Candidates must also demonstrate the skills required to work as part of a team and be flexible when production changes. A proactive attitude and a quality-based approach are also sought after, as well as the ability to work with specialised machinery and tools. Candidates who meet these criteria will be considered as strong applicants to fill the positions. However, we are committed to interviewing all the candidates who have taken the tests.”
underlines Claire Brière.
The benefits of simulation recruitment method for electronics production job vacancies
This method allows the technical skills and knowledge of candidates to be assessed in a simulated environment, which provides a more accurate picture of their ability to work in an electronics production situation.
Accurate skill assessment.
Simulation tests can provide an accurate, objective and efficient assessment of candidates’ skills for electronics production operator jobs.
Using simulation tests, ACTIA selects the candidates who meet its needs best in terms of skills and experience. It is an objective assessment of candidates’ skills, which helps to minimise subjective bias in the recruitment process.
Accelerated recruitment process.
The SRM is a time-saver. The recruitment process is shorter. By using simulation tests, ACTIA therefore saves time and cuts costs by assessing the skills of candidates before hiring them. That way, it also improves employment quality.
Smashing stereotypes.
notes Claire Brière.
“SRM is so effective because it also helps break down barriers. The majority of candidates who apply in this way would never have imagined working at ACTIA. Former seamstresses have retrained like this. It brings a lot of diversity to the company and helps to smash stereotypes.”
Benefits of simulation tests for candidates
Simulation tests allow candidates to demonstrate their suitability for the job without the need for prior experience. These tests are therefore open to as many people as possible.
Understanding the demands of the job.
These tests can also help them understand the demands of the job and the skills needed before applying.
SRM gives candidates an idea of what to expect from the day-to-day work and how their performance will be assessed. It is therefore an opportunity for candidates to stand out from the crowd and prove their commitment to the job.
Training leading to qualifications
If the tests are conclusive, the candidates then have the opportunity to participate in one week of professional immersion within the company, to ensure that the position corresponds to their expectations. When a profile is validated, the individual can join ACTIA on a work-study course with ADRAR, ACTIA’s partner for this programme, for one year of training financed by OPCO2i. Internally, the individual is accompanied by a tutor throughout their training.
The importance of continuing education to achieve long-term success
It is important for electronics production professionals to continue their education to maintain and improve their skills. ACTIA offers ongoing training courses to keep employees up to date with the newest technology and the latest production processes. This may include training workshops, online courses, seminars and certifications.
“Employees who continue their training internally or externally can become genuine experts in their field and offer great added-value to the company. It can also help them to progress within our organisation and pursue a successful career.
adds Claire Brière.
Accompanying the evolution of electronics production professions
Training is one of the transformation phases at the ACTIA Colomiers 5.0 plant. For this project, ACTIA wants to improve working conditions and enhance the appeal of the Group’s industrial professions via new technologies. This involves implementing new methods, processes, and cutting-edge technology that contribute to taking the production technician’s profession forward. These professions therefore offer many opportunities for development at work.
By adopting this recruitment method, ACTIA intends to overcome the difficulties in hiring qualified professionals in electronics production, mainly due to the shortage of specialised skills and the lack of appeal of these positions.
ACTIA believes that simulation recruitment (SRM) tests can benefit candidates by giving them the chance to demonstrate their skills, creating a more transparent recruitment process and providing feedback on their performance.
Whether you are looking for your first professional experience or are already experienced, whatever your speciality or location, our career site is YOUR place to find the ACTIA job that matches your career plan: https://actia-recrutement.talent-soft.com/offre-de-emploi/liste-offres.aspx
Our openings are also relayed on Jobteaser https://www.jobteaser.com/fr/companies/actia-group/job-offers
