"While the weeks leading up to Christmas are traditionally slower in terms of candidate and job flow, this year many companies plan to hire new staff in December," Hays regional director Ben Hiles said.

"In an increasingly candidate-tight market, many employers want pre-holiday peace of mind, knowing they have the skills they require for the next year in place before Christmas.

"In addition, there are many examples of businesses with ambitious growth plans, and open recruitment requirements to facilitate this growth. These businesses will hire a new staff member that matches their specific requirements whenever they become available, and holidays won't stop an employer from hiring their ideal candidate."

Meanwhile, with the new year approaching, many individuals may re-evaluate their career goals with some eager to change jobs or career paths at this time.

Hays Resources & Mining said this gives companies an opportunity to access a wider pool of candidates who may not have been on the market at other times throughout the year.

According to the recruiter's October forecast, the upswing in exploration spending and activity has seen the job market for exploration and project geologists increase significantly.

Mine development and planning engineers are also in high demand as large and small projects commence or enter production phases.

The construction of infrastructure in and around various minesites has created a hot spot for design and project engineers and estimators.

Hays also noted that, as with the rest of the market, executive recruitment is incredibly active.