The State of the AEC Job Market – January 2025 Insights
As we step into 2025, the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries continue to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for employers and job seekers alike. At The Axel Group, we’ve analyzed the latest job market data to provide valuable insights on talent availability, salary expectations, and hiring strategies that can help businesses stay ahead.
Talent Availability: A Shifting Landscape
The U.S. economy added 143,000 new jobs in January 2025, with the construction sector contributing 23,000 new positions (Bureau of Labor Statistics). This growth reflects continued demand for skilled professionals in key roles, from civil engineers to project managers.
Additionally, the labor force participation rate remained steady at 62.6%, signaling a consistent pool of active job seekers. However, competition for top talent remains strong, and companies must refine their hiring strategies to secure the best candidates.
Salary Expectations: Compensation on the Rise
Salary trends continue to shift as demand for specialized skills grows:
Architecture & Engineering: The average annual salary in the architecture and engineering sectors is now $91,420, reflecting a steady increase in wages for professionals with technical expertise (Educating Engineers).
Construction: The average hourly wage for construction professionals reached $38.95 in late 2024, showcasing continued industry expansion (Construct Connect).
With these rising compensation trends, businesses must ensure they remain competitive in their salary offerings to attract and retain skilled professionals.
Hiring Strategies: How to Stay Ahead
To navigate this competitive job market, companies should focus on three key strategies:
1. Offer Competitive Compensation – With salaries rising, ensuring your pay structure is in line with industry benchmarks is crucial.
2. Streamline the Hiring Process – In a competitive market, delays in recruitment can lead to losing top candidates. A faster, more efficient hiring process can make all the difference.
3. Strengthen Employer Branding – Candidates are looking for more than just a paycheck. A strong company culture, career growth opportunities, and workplace benefits can help set your business apart.
Looking to Hire? We Can Help!
The Axel Group specializes in connecting top talent with leading firms in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Environmental sectors. If you're looking for skilled professionals to drive your business forward, our team is here to help.