New data from leading talent company Randstad Australia shows flexible working and work-life balance could be critical to addressing ongoing talent shortages in the construction and engineering industries.

Randstad’s latest Workmonitor reveals more than half (52%) of workers in the field say work-life balance is the main reason they stay in their current role - more than double those who cite pay and benefits (25%) or job security (20%).

The findings highlight a significant opportunity for employers to strengthen their employee value proposition and attract talent in an increasingly competitive market.

“Work-life balance has become one of the most powerful tools employers have to attract and retain talent,” said Clayton Colbert, Director of Engineering and Construction at Randstad Australia.

“In a sector facing ongoing skills shortages, organisations that can offer flexibility and support employees’ lifestyles will have a clear advantage particularly when it comes to retention,” he said.

Headway is already being made with 70% of workers saying they have flexibility over when they work. However, only 52% report having flexibility over where they work from, suggesting there is still room for improvement.

“It’s not just about offering a job anymore, it's about offering a lifestyle,” said Mr Colbert.

“Employers who can combine competitive pay with genuine flexibility will be best placed to secure talent.”

Talent shortages are being felt across the engineering and construction sectors particularly in infrastructure with some employers being forced to broaden their approach to hiring and place greater emphasis on potential and upskilling.

“Our research tells us employees are open to upskilling particularly when it comes to technology. 64% have independently sought opportunities to future-proof their skills and 54% say their employer has provided them with the opportunities to do so.”

Tech readiness is stronger among engineering professionals with 73% ready to utilise the latest technology such as AI in their role compared to 47% in the construction industry.

Other industry insights from the Workmonitor data -

“This research shows that while workers are feeling the pressure they’re also being very clear about what they need from employers,” said Mr Colbert.

“Employers who will win in this market aren’t necessarily the ones who offer the highest salaries, they’re the ones who understand how their employees want to live and work.”