Recruitment and compensation trends in the construction industry

The job market in the construction and public works sector is evolving in a particularly tense context, marked by increased caution among industry players. Faced with persistent economic uncertainties, an unstable political environment, and the crisis in new housing, companies are adopting a wait-and-see approach, limiting risk-taking and recruitment.

This widespread caution, however, did not lead to the influx of candidates initially expected on the job market.

By 2025, experienced professionals largely adopted a cautious approach, prioritizing job security. Simultaneously, there was an increase in applications from junior candidates, particularly those with 0 to 3 years of experience, often from apprenticeships or those with unconventional career paths. These recent graduates, however, faced difficulties finding employment, as companies were reluctant to invest in candidates lacking significant experience.

The shortage of experienced and independent candidates remains a critical issue for the sector. In the Île-de-France region, the emphasis on the engineering degree remains strong and continues to shape recruitment policies. Conversely, in some regions, practical experience is more highly valued, allowing non-engineering professionals to access salary levels close to those of engineers.

Hays, a leader in specialist recruitment, provides an overview of recruitment and compensation trends in the building and public works sector.

Recruitment and compensation trends

TOP 5 most sought-after professions:

Drafter / Designer
Construction engineer (general contractor/structural work)
Cost estimating engineer (general contractor/structural work)
Civil engineer (roads and utilities/earthworks)
Cost engineer (roads and various networks/earthworks)

The most sought-after/in-demand skills:

Organization and planning
Autonomy
Financial oversight and budget management
Leadership and team management
Rigor

The slowdown in the new housing market is confirmed, with a 21,5% drop in construction starts according to the French Building Federation (FFB). While renovation is showing positive momentum (+2,8% for energy-efficient renovations in 2024), it is not enough to fully offset the decline in new construction and is not generating a significant increase in job opportunities.

In this context, construction companies are demonstrating agility by redirecting their activities towards adapting existing buildings for new builds and related services, particularly those historically focused on new construction. The real growth driver is now coming from the industrial sector. In 2024, several major investment announcements reinforced this trend, especially in data centers, the energy industry, and industrial infrastructure, which are emerging as the main engine of growth in a slowing residential market.

Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook reflects a dual dynamic: a gradual stabilization of the traditional market, despite a further expected decline of 12,3% in new housing, and the emergence of promising opportunities in industry and digital infrastructure, driven by massive investments. Companies capable of diversifying their activities, strengthening their attractiveness, and anticipating the shift towards industry and digital technologies will be best positioned to capture growth in a sector that will remain constrained.

Methodology

This study is based on a national survey of over 2.500 candidates and companies, covering more than 700 professions across some 20 sectors. The data was collected in 2025 to anticipate labor market and salary trends for 2026. The figures presented are from Hays' databases.

Download the full study results

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.