Top 5 Hardest to Hire Skilled Trades Professionals
Filling an open position on your team is never easy, but some skilled trades jobs are harder to hire for than others. The 3.9% unemployment rate, as of December 2018, makes this process even more difficult, as it’s currently a job seeker’s market.
Employment for all occupations is expected to grow 7% through 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but many skilled trades jobs are on a much faster track. These positions are more difficult to hire for than those where the demand is lower, because there’s not enough talent to go around.
Since these job seekers have their choice of employers, you’ll really need to step it up to make them choose your company over the competition. This could involve offering above average salaries, enticing perks, and interesting work. Here’s a look at the jobs that will be most difficult to fill through 2022.
5 Hardest to Hire Skilled Trades Professionals
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Demand for HVACR professionals is expected to increase 15 percent through 2022, more than double the growth rate for all occupations. Professionals proficient with tablets and electronics, as well as those with troubleshooting skills, will likely have the best job prospects, according to the BLS. Since this group will be in especially high demand, they’ll be the hardest to hire.
Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
The need for plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters is expected to rise 16 percent through 2026. Professionals familiar with Building Information Modeling are expected to have the best job prospects, as integrated building-planning abilities continue to rise in popularity, according to the BLS. Consequently, this subgroup will be the most in demand.
Ironworkers
Job growth for ironworkers is expected to increase
Environmental Engineering Technicians
Demand for environmental engineering technicians is expected to surge 13% through 2022, nearly double the rate for all occupations. This is largely due to state and local governments’ increased focus on efficient water use, stormwater management, and wastewater treatment, according to the BLS. As governments and larger firms work to lower costs, they’ll need to hire more environmental technicians.
Construction Managers
The need for construction managers is expected to rise 11 percent through 2026. Those with a bachelor’s degree in construction science, construction management, or civil engineering — combined with construction experience — will be the most in demand, according to BLS. Realize this subgroup to be the hardest to hire, so step up your game if you need to recruit these professionals.
Need help finding qualified skilled trades professionals? MAC Incorporated is here to assist. Contact us today to connect with engineering, maintenance, and operations management professionals eager to join your team!
