The construction and manufacturing sectors are experiencing intense global competition for entry-level skilled trades talent. As a result, Canada, the United States and Europe are seeking the services of welders, technicians and other highly-skilled manpower.
The construction industry has been a vital force in the European Union’s economy, standing as the leading industrial employer and making a significant contribution to GDP.
As the construction industry undergoes a transformative phase, with an increasing focus on sustainability and digitalisation, certain European countries are emerging as frontrunners in offering lucrative opportunities for construction professionals.
As many as 1.5 million additional workers will be needed to fill construction jobs in Europe between 2023 and 2030 from local and foreign talents, according to the International Trade Union Confederation .
Additionally, the United States has been facing a significant demand for construction workers, with approximately 374,000 job openings as of December 2023.
The reasons for these skills shortage are not far-fetched. According to a 2023 survey by the Associated General Contractors of America, two key supply-side trends are reducing the number of skilled labourers in the workforce: an ageing population and a lack of younger individuals entering the trades.
The increased labour scarcity, further exacerbated by the disruptions caused by COVID-19, has intensified competition for talent, resulting in the sector’s average wages rising by more than 20 percent since the first quarter of 2020.
Job titles within the construction and manufacturing industries typically include welders, electricians, technicians, masons, and carpenters.
Canada
In 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a streamlined immigration pathway for skilled trades workers with specific expertise in carpentry, plumbing and welding due to an aging population and continuous development in infrastructure. Ontario and Saskatchewan have a high demand for these skills. The average salary is $102,899.67 per year with an attractive compensation.
United States
According to McKinsey & Company the US manufacturing and construction face a hiring crunch for skilled workers such as carpenters, electricians, welders, and plumbers.
Some of the most profitable trade jobs include construction managers with a $101,000 median salary and elevator mechanics with $99,000.
Switzerland
The Swiss construction sector is experiencing a significant growth, driven by government investments in infrastructure, residential developments, and renewable energy projects.
Despite the high cost of living, construction workers in Switzerland benefit from above-average salaries, with an annual average income of €76,591 and a cost of living of around €6,000 per month.
Belgium
Belgium’s construction industry is on the rise, with the sector projected to reach $94.5 billion by 2024.
The country’s open economy and high living standards make it an attractive destination for construction professionals. Belgium offers competitive salaries, averaging €49,545 per year, although the cost of living is relatively high at €3,200 per month.
The Netherlands
The Dutch construction industry contributes approximately €70 billion billion to the national economy, representing 4.5 percent of GDP, and is rapidly expanding. Although the Netherlands is the eighth most expensive country to live in, it offers a good balance between cost and quality of life. Construction workers in the Netherlands can earn an average salary of €38,258. Additionally, the Netherlands is a leader in health and safety on construction sites, with some of the lowest fatal incident rates in the EU, reporting just 0.33 fatalities per 100,000 workers in 2021.
France
France is one of the largest construction markets in Europe, significantly contributing to the industry’s overall value added. The average annual salary for construction workers in France is €31,735, with a cost of living of €3,407 per month. The safety incident rate in the French construction industry stands at 11%.
Italy
Italy, despite being heavily impacted by COVID-19, is on the road to recovery, offering substantial job opportunities in the construction sector. With a low cost of living and salaries averaging €28,019 per year, Italy presents a positive outlook for construction workers seeking to join a resilient workforce. The cost of living in Italy is €3,407 per month, with a safety incident rate of 13 percent.
Germany
Germany is Europe’s leading construction market, offering above-average earnings for construction workers, a relatively low cost of living, and numerous projects. The average annual salary for construction workers in Germany is €29,214, while the cost of living is around €3,223 per month.
Romania
Romania is an excellent location for welders, with abundant opportunities in industries such as oil and gas, dairy, and manufacturing. The average salary for a welder in Romania is approximately Rs. 42,000 per month.
Sweden
Sweden is another attractive destination for welders, boasting a strong manufacturing industry with ample job opportunities in shipbuilding, construction, and other sectors. The average salary for a welder in Sweden is around Rs. 95,000 per month.
Croatia
Croatia offers great opportunities for welders seeking overseas employment, with jobs available in industries such as oil, gas, petrochemicals, nuclear, and renewables. The average salary for a welder in Croatia is around Rs. 52,000 per month.
Hungary
Hungary provides numerous job opportunities for welders in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and the automobile sector. The average salary for a welder in Hungary is around Rs. 30,000 per month.
Estonia
Estonia is a promising option for welders looking for employment abroad, with opportunities in construction management, the automobile industry, and manufacturing. The average salary for a welder in Estonia is around Rs. 70,000 per month.
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