02 May 2024

Navigating the Recruitment Landscape: Trends in Engineering & Manufacturing for 2024

In the dynamic realm of engineering and manufacturing, staying ahead of the curve is imperative for success. As technology evolves and market demands shift, recruitment strategies must adapt to attract and retain top talent. To help you navigate this ever-changing landscape, we’ve identified key trends shaping talent acquisition in 2024.

1. Addressing the Skills & Labor Shortage

The talent shortage in Engineering & Manufacturing is reaching critical levels, with 2.1 million jobs projected to remain unfilled by 2030. To combat this crisis, companies are implementing proactive strategies:

• Upskilling and reskilling: Investing in existing talent to bridge skill gaps and foster internal mobility.
• Employer branding: Crafting compelling narratives to attract candidates by showcasing company culture, benefits, and opportunities for growth.
• Attracting younger audiences: Engaging with schools and colleges to cultivate interest in industrial careers among Gen Z.

2. Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I)

Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative – it’s also a strategic advantage. Companies are committing to tangible actions to increase equity and parity for underrepresented communities:

• Diverse hiring practices: Highlighting ED&I commitments in job advertisements and fostering diverse interview panels.
• Unconscious bias training: Ensuring recruitment teams are equipped to mitigate biases in the hiring process.

3. Sustainability

With growing environmental concerns, sustainability has become a core focus for engineering and manufacturing firms. Employers are seeking candidates who can drive eco-friendly practices and navigate evolving regulations:

• Specialisation in sustainable processes: Prioritising professionals who can implement environmentally responsible strategies.
• Dedicated environmental roles: Establishing specialised positions to address sustainability challenges.

4. Cybersecurity

As technology integration increases, so do cyber threats. Manufacturers are particularly vulnerable, facing a rising tide of cyber-attacks. To safeguard against potential breaches, companies are bolstering their cybersecurity defences:

• Building cybersecurity teams: Hiring experts to protect against evolving threats and safeguard sensitive data.

Conclusion

In the face of ongoing challenges, strategic recruitment is essential for engineering and manufacturing firms. By investing in upskilling, fostering diversity, prioritising sustainability, and fortifying cybersecurity measures, companies can position themselves for success in 2024 and beyond.

At Hunter, we’re committed to helping businesses navigate the recruitment landscape and find the best talent. With expertise in Engineering & Manufacturing, we’re here to support your recruitment needs and drive success.