Within and Between Firm Trends in Job Polarization: Role of Globalization and Technology

Pekkala Kerr SariMaczulskij TerhiMaliranta Mika

This paper analyzes occupational polarization within and across firms using comprehensive matched employer-employee panel data from Finland. The occupational distribution in Finland has been polarizing over the last few decades, with mid-level production and clerical jobs eroding while low-skill service occupations and high-skill specialist occupations gain share. We find that the phenomenon is taking place within existing firms, as well as due to firm entry and exit. Service jobs are increasing through the entry-exit dynamics, but also via establishment level restructuring among continuing firms. Routine jobs, including mid-level plant operating jobs, are being destroyed both among continuing firms and at the entry-exit margin. The share of high-level occupations increases largely within continuing firms. Within the continuing firms the job polarization appears to be related to the trade of goods and services, as well as the outsourcing of tasks. Firms with high R&D expenditures and ICT use are more prone to lay off process and production workers.

Julkaisun tietoja

Sarja
ETLA Working Papers 41
Päiväys
03.10.2016
Keywords
Job polarization, offshoring, international trade, firm, establishment, technology, R&D, ICT
ISSN
2323-2420, 2323-2439
JEL
J24, J31, O33
Sivuja
47
Hinta
15 €
Painoversion saatavuus
Saatavilla
Kieli
Englanti