Across the UK manufacturing sector, the skills gap remains a persistent and complex challenge. With digital transformation accelerating across areas such as automation, clean energy and data-driven manufacturing, the industry is contending with both a shortage of experienced professionals and the need to re-skill existing teams.

As a specialist recruitment agency working closely with mid-level and senior professionals in manufacturing, we see firsthand how these pressures are shaping the talent landscape and how businesses are responding.

A shifting workforce landscape

Many manufacturers are navigating a difficult balance: legacy systems still need to be maintained, while new technologies such as AI-driven operations, additive manufacturing and predictive maintenance require different skill sets altogether.

Key challenges include:

• An ageing workforce: A significant proportion of experienced professionals are approaching retirement, creating a gap in both technical capability and leadership.
• Limited mid-career talent: There is a shortage of candidates with 5–15 years of experience, those who typically bridge the gap between technical execution and strategic direction.
• Changing candidate expectations: Experienced professionals are increasingly looking for roles with clear progression, exposure to future-facing technologies, and meaningful work, particularly around sustainability.

Where recruitment fits in

Recruitment can’t solve the skills gap on its own. But it does provide a lens into how candidate priorities are shifting and what’s working in terms of attracting and retaining experienced professionals.

Here’s what we’ve observed:

Employers are rethinking job design

Traditional role definitions are evolving. Rather than narrowly focused technical jobs, many organisations are creating hybrid roles that blend engineering expertise with project management, digital literacy, and leadership.

Senior candidates are looking for long-term alignment

Many experienced professionals are open to moving, but only if they see a clear purpose in the business. This includes a company’s stance on sustainability, its investment in technology, and the opportunity to lead meaningful change.

Internal mobility is gaining traction

We’re seeing more businesses shift focus towards developing internal talent, whether that’s cross-training production engineers in automation or supporting team leaders to step into more strategic roles.

What you can do

For individuals working in manufacturing, now is a good time to reflect on future-proofing your own career. Some considerations include:

• Staying close to emerging technologies in your sector (e.g., digital twin, robotics, smart maintenance).
• Seeking opportunities for cross-functional exposure, particularly in sustainability, digital transformation, or supply chain integration.
• Keeping open conversations with peers, recruiters, and industry bodies to stay aware of changing expectations.

Looking ahead

The skills gap in manufacturing isn’t a temporary blip, it reflects a long-term shift in how the industry operates, and the skills needed to thrive in it. Businesses that invest in people, whether through thoughtful recruitment, upskilling, or internal development, are more likely to succeed in building resilient, adaptable teams.

Likewise, professionals who engage with this change who are open to learning, leading and adapting will continue to be in demand.

The conversation around the skills gap is far from over. But it’s also an opportunity, for manufacturers and professionals alike, to shape the future of the industry in a more agile, inclusive, and technology-led way.

If you’re navigating workforce planning, hiring for critical roles, or simply exploring how your organisation can adapt to the changing talent landscape, we’re always open to a conversation. As specialists in manufacturing recruitment, we’re here to share insight, not just CVs.

Get in touch with our Associate Director Robert Wigley for a confidential discussion at Robert.wigley@technical-network.co.uk or call on 0121 450 5000.