A recent survey of 300 employers conducted through Is.ru reveals ongoing hiring challenges across Russia, with participation spanning more than 300 companies from various regions. The findings underscore a persistent struggle to fill technical and skilled trades roles, particularly electricians and engineers, across the country.
Within the market, there is a noticeable shortage of design and process engineers. These gaps constrain product development and operational efficiency in multiple sectors, prompting firms to rethink how they source and retain talent while keeping wage competitiveness and training opportunities in view.
In contrast, demand appears more balanced for IT professionals and marketing specialists. The study notes that the technology and digital marketing segments show relatively healthier dynamics, which aligns with broader shifts toward remote work and digital transformation in many industries.
Manufacturing and agricultural sectors report the strongest impact from shortages of blue-collar workers. The gap extends to experienced plumbers and electricians, who are essential for sustaining infrastructure and facility operations. As a result, many businesses are prioritizing retention strategies, including career development paths, better working conditions, and competitive compensation packages, over aggressive recruiting campaigns for new hires.
Additionally, a separate study by Avito Rabota, focusing on February 2023 hiring trends, highlights a robust increase in remote job openings, rising by 79 percent versus the previous year. Applicants show heightened interest in roles in IT, Internet, telecom, and marketing, advertising, and public relations, with each category drawing substantial share of inquiries and applications, indicating shifting preferences among job seekers.
These trends reflect a broader labor market dynamic that resonates beyond Russia, offering useful parallels for North American employers and job seekers in Canada and the United States. The emphasis on skilled trades, the ongoing demand for engineers, and the importance of retention strategies echo global workforce priorities in years ahead. Employers are increasingly balancing recruitment with training investments, apprenticeship programs, and flexible work arrangements to attract and keep talent in competitive markets.
For job seekers, the message is clear: focusing on acquiring in-demand technical skills, pursuing continuing education, and seeking employers who invest in professional growth can improve long-term employability. For companies, the takeaway is to combine strategic retention efforts with targeted recruitment in sectors facing shortages, while leveraging remote-work options and digital roles to widen the pool of qualified candidates. This integrated approach can help organizations navigate the evolving labor landscape and sustain productive teams across industries.
Sources: Is.ru survey of 300 employers; Lenta.ru reporting on the findings; Avito Rabota study on February 2023 hiring trends.