An analysis of 40 million job postings by the world’s largest staffing agency—Randstad—has uncovered that many of the U.S.’s top 15 most in-demand jobs for the year are related to the manufacturing industry. Driven by the increasing scale of e-commerce and its supply chain, and with labor shortages for skilled trades, the sector needs to strategically prepare for talent solutions in 2025.

Manufacturing Fuels Growth

Manufacturing remains a pillar of the U.S. economy, with a growing demand for workers such as warehouse laborers, material handlers and forklift operators—essential roles for maintaining efficiency in a fast-paced market.

Skilled trades are experiencing a resurgence, presenting an opportunity for employers to invest in electricians, welders, and other technical professionals that are vital to the U.S. workforce. The rising need for these roles underscores a nationwide focus on infrastructure development and sustainability. By prioritizing the recruitment and training of these workers, manufacturing companies can secure a stable workforce that drives long-term success.

Top 10 Manufacturing Jobs

The most in-demand jobs within the manufacturing sector for this year are:

1. Machine operator
2. Field service technician
3. Maintenance mechanic
4. Heavy equipment operator
5. Electrician
6. Production worker
7. Welder
8. Manufacturing manager
9. Millwright
10. Production scheduler

Employers who strategically fill these positions will ensure smooth operations, maintain production timelines and uphold quality standards while staying ahead of the curve in an evolving labor market.

Competition for building a strong workforce in this sector is steep, and a variety of industries  such as electrical contractors and engineering services, along with machinery and food manufacturing companies, are looking to hire.

Talent agencies are the leading recruiter for manufacturing roles, due to the flexible workforce solutions they provide employers. A strategic talent partner can help businesses fill in not just the number of people needed for their workforces, but those with the right skills for in-demand positions.

Skilling & Salary Expectations for Manufacturing Jobs

With continuous advancements in technology and automation, companies striving to maintain a competitive advantage, and enhance productivity and efficiency, should actively seek talent capable of learning and leveraging new technologies.

Businesses in this sector must hire professionals who can bridge the gap between traditional and digital manufacturing processes. Workers skilled in programming and maintaining automated systems are in high demand, and skills such as the ability to operate machinery and use hand tools are extremely valuable.

Equipping employees with credentials that back those skills is also crucial. Below are the most useful certifications for professionals in the manufacturing sector:

• Forklift Certification
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certification

As the manufacturing labor market evolves, companies must take a proactive approach to training and development. Investing in upskilling initiatives is imperative for retaining current talent and maintaining a skilled workforce that can adapt to industry advancements.

Competitive wages are also a major factor in attracting and retaining skilled workers, especially in this sector. Salary expectations in manufacturing vary by experience level, with entry-level employees earning an average of $27/hour, mid-level earning $31/hour and senior-level earning $35/hour.

While these numbers are averages for the entire U.S., Randstad USA offers a comprehensive salary guide which enables employers to view salary averages based on region, alongside key trends impacting the industry.

By offering competitive salaries and clear career advancement pathways, employers can make evident that manufacturing remains a rewarding career path, with room for growth as workers gain experience and specialized skills.

Looking Ahead

These insights reflect a labor market that is expected to remain resilient in 2025 despite economic uncertainties. Employers that embrace industry shifts and invest in their workforce will be well-equipped to navigate the future of work in manufacturing with confidence.

Doug Hammond, as president of Operational Talent Solutions (OTS) at Randstad USA, a subsidiary of the world’s leading talent company, Hammond is responsible for providing strategic direction and leading operational excellence. Hammond began his tenure with Randstad as a regional vice president in 2013 where he quickly developed a reputation for innovation and driving results. He holds an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and has a track record of providing vision and clarity, while driving organizational change.