Pacific Northwest Bucking the Trend of Stagnant Job Growth in Engineering

Posted on January 31, 2014

In most parts of the country, engineering has seen a slowdown in growth. The Pacific Northwest, however, is bucking this trend with steady growth in the engineering field.

According to most estimates, the Pacific Northwest can expect to see an approximate three percent job growth in engineering in 2014. Since most added engineering jobs are new ones, rather than openings in existing positions, the increase in job postings for qualified engineers in the area indicate a real increase in demand for engineering experts. Seattle-area staffing firms expect to see over 1,000 engineering positions added in the city alone.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that engineering will grow about 9 percent nationwide in the next ten years, slower than the average of 11 percent for all occupations. In the Pacific Northwest, however, growth in engineering is expected to reach 9 percent in just three years, and to exceed 11 percent in just four. The increase in engineering in this region is connected to the consistent architectural, industry, and related growth in the area, including in alternative sources of energy and in technology.

How Can I Take Advantage of This Trend?

If you’re an engineer seeking work or just finishing school, planning ahead now can place you in an ideal position to take advantage of the increased growth in our area. Take the following steps to prepare yourself:

Network. Go to professional events where you can meet established professionals in the field. Also, tap into your existing network by letting friends, family, and co-workers know you’re looking for an engineering position.
Hop on social media. LinkedIn, the only networking site focused on professionals, offers additional opportunities to meet others in your field, learn about new developments, and see job postings from top firms. This and other social networking sites can help you find a great engineering job.
Work with a staffing partner who specializes in placing engineers. Choose a recruiting firm whose partners know the engineering field and who specialize in placing engineers who do the work your career focuses on. Your staffing partner can become an unparalleled resource not only during the job search, but afterwards as well.

At TERRA Staffing, our experienced engineering recruiters can help you find the engineering position you’re looking for. Contact us today to learn more!

Categories: HR and Management Advice, Staffing Tips & Recruiting Trends