What trends will impact the Science, Engineering and Manufacturing job market in late 2025?

"What can I expect to happen in the Science, Engineering, and Manufacturing job market for the second half of 2025?" Is a question we are hearing a lot from both our clients, and candidates alike. Although much can change and predictions are never 100%. There are certain trends in the Science, Engineering, and Manufacturing job market taking shape. So we thought our latest article should explore how these developments are creating both opportunities and challenges for employers and job seekers alike.

What has happened in 2025 so far? The first half of the year has already set the tone, with persistent skills shortages, a decline in vacancies, and an increased expectation of redundancies and candidate expectations continue to shift.

So, what should you expect from July to December?

Here are six key factors that are likely to shape recruitment and the job market over the coming months:

Increased Hiring Pressure as Projects Resume

Many businesses paused or delayed hiring in the first half of the year due to budget reviews, supply chain issues, or uncertainty around interest rates or tariffs. As confidence improves, we’re seeing a resumption of capital projects and product development plans — which means a renewed urgency to hire technical staff, particularly in engineering and manufacturing.

Companies will feel the pressure to act quickly before competitors secure the best candidates.

This is perhaps the factor most likely to change. External influences—such as rising US tariffs, geopolitical conflict, or a sudden shift in UK economic policy—could prompt many clients to redirect their investment strategies. Which explains why there remains some anxiety in the market about a potential increase in the redundancy rate.

Skilled Talent Still in Short Supply

Despite some cooling in the broader job market, the reality for science, engineering, and manufacturing is that niche skills remain hard to find. Whether it’s experienced Quality Engineers, Design Engineers, Electronics professionals, R&D Scientists, or Controls Engineers, the second half of the year won’t offer much relief when it comes to finding candidates in these sectors.

Employers will need to stay flexible on requirements and be ready to move fast when a strong candidate shows interest.

Candidate Expectations Are Higher Than Ever

Salary and benefits remain the top priority for technical professionals — especially in the UK, where rising living costs continue to intensify the pressure. In today’s competitive market, these financial factors are often the deciding factor when candidates evaluate opportunities.

While work-life balance, flexibility, development, and progression are still important, they are no longer differentiators on their own. Businesses that fail to lead with a strong, transparent compensation and benefits offer risk losing out on top talent — regardless of how attractive the rest of the package may be.

Of course, every candidate is different — and this is another way that Senex Recruitment enhances your recruitment process. We take the time to understand what each individual is looking for, offering advice to all parties to ensure a smooth conclusion. We also help both businesses and candidates navigate the realities of the market, providing clear, realistic guidance on what a competitive and fair salary looks like.

Hiring Teams Under Pressure to Deliver Quickly

With managers increasingly busy and HR teams often stretched thin with changes to regulations and policy, the expectation to deliver fast, high-quality recruitment is becoming harder to meet. Delays in interview processes or unclear feedback loops can cost businesses the ideal candidate.

This has also been coupled with a staggering increase in applications via Job Boards such as Indeed, the vast number of which are inappropriate or ineligible to work in the UK. We know we use job boards, but have found an effective search and selection process coupled with innovative use of social media and SEO is the only way to deliver quality recruitment solutions. Senex Recruitment will continue with its policy (it has not changed since we started in 2017) of aiming for a one-to-one ratio — one CV, one candidate worth interviewing. Helping both candidates and client connect in an efficient and effective way.

The Return of End-of-Year Contract Hiring and the Q4 slowdown

As permanent recruitment gets tougher, we’re seeing a return of short-term and project-based hiring — particularly in manufacturing. Whether it’s to support a production ramp-up, resolve a backlog, or finish a project before year-end, contract roles are a practical option for many employers.

It’s worth considering this route early, while quality interim professionals are still available.

There’s also a yearly trend where companies choose to delay planned recruitment from Q4 into the new year. That’s why, if you're considering a career move, it’s often smart to begin your search in Q3. By registering with Senex Recruitment, you’ll receive real world advice on both the best timing and what you can realistically expect from your next move.

Location, location, location… or maybe it’s time to think beyond the obvious.

Across the South and South East of England, we’re seeing noticeable regional shifts. For instance, some of the more remote parts of Kent are home to exceptional employers, yet the local talent pool for scientific and high-tech engineering roles remains limited. That creates a fantastic opportunity for relocation—offering the chance to enjoy a rural setting with great amenities, charming towns, and a refreshing change of pace.

Meanwhile, the Golden Triangle of London, Oxford, and Cambridge continues to be the UK’s leading hub for science and engineering innovation. It offers higher salaries, yes, but also brings with it challenges: elevated living costs, limited housing, and increased competition for each role.

All of this points to one key conclusion—location matters. It's why the Home Counties may experience a boost later in the year, and it underscores the importance of employers and job seekers rethinking how they view different regions to support a more balanced and effective distribution of talent across the UK.

Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Trends in the job market

Summary

The second half of 2025 won’t be without its recruitment challenges in the job market. But for businesses in science, engineering, and manufacturing, there’s also opportunity — especially for those ready to act decisively and adapt to the changes.

At Senex Recruitment, we’re here to support you with grounded, pragmatic and focused advice. Our commitment to Science, Engineering and Manufacturing is unwavering so if need help with your next hire or to find you next job? We’re just a conversation away.