Industrial Hiring Is Shifting: Here’s What We’re Seeing

We’re continuing our Market Insights series, where our team breaks down what we’re seeing across the talent landscape. Over the past few weeks, we shared trends from our Tech Practice and our Corporate Functions team. This week, we’re shifting the spotlight to Industrial.

Our Industrial Practice had a strong Q3 with 37 placements across engineering, operations, and quality. Demand remains high for both hands-on technical expertise and strategic leadership, especially as companies navigate cost pressures, talent shortages, and evolving production needs. We filled a variety of roles in Q3, reflecting the range of talent organizations are relying on right now.

As part of this week’s focus, Shannon from our Industrial team shared several insights on what hiring teams and job seekers are experiencing in today’s market. Here are quick takeaways from her first three clips.

The Rise of Project-Based Hiring 

Tariffs continue to create uncertainty across the industrial market, increasing production costs and slowing hiring decisions. Companies are taking longer to interview and becoming more selective. Project-based hiring is also growing as organizations look for flexible support during high-volume or fast-moving periods. We’ve seen major uptick in RPOs within our industrial practice, kicking off three new projects in the quarter.

The Power of Customized Hiring Support

High-volume hiring requires a customized approach. Companies are partnering with us to build tailored project solutions, including onsite support to streamline interviews or additional recruiting resources during ramp-up periods. Flexibility is driving better results and faster alignment.

The Roles in Highest Demand Across Industrial Today

The hottest topic in business right now is AI. The second hottest topic has been the massive infrastructure needed to power AI. So it’s not surprising that Electrical Engineering talent remains in high demand. Companies are also prioritizing strategic operators who can help navigate current manufacturing challenges. Skill sets that blend technical depth with strategic thinking are standing out the most.

Thanks for tuning in!

Matt Massucci