As the Labor Shortage Grows, Contractors Try New Ways to Recruit Workers

Construction job openings are on the rise, as the industry looks ahead to a healthy year of housing development, but with few new hires filling those gaps, contractors are being forced to take a new approach to workforce development, Construction Dive reports.

Rather than taking on seasonal or project-based jobs, more laborers are expressing a desire for full-time positions. In addition to greater job security, contractors are introducing more extensive pipelines for career development and making simple but impactful changes to the workplace, such as improving dining areas and bathrooms.

Wages aren’t the biggest sticking point right now and job hunters want a career that will help support them in the long term, according to Garrett Johnson, director of regional talent for Suffolk Construction’s Northeast region.

Johnson said workers seek a company that can help them upskill and find a clear career path and future.

“A lot of it has to do with training opportunities, that’s a big one,” Johnson said. “A lot of cases they’re looking for you to provide a career path or career ladder.”

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