Are challenges in recruiting top talent in the Plastics and Packaging industry holding you back? In this month’s “Monday Market Share,” we focus on the nuances of plastics and packaging recruitment. We sat down with Stephanie Viboch, our expert recruiter in the Plastics and Packaging industry, to uncover the key transformations, opportunities, and challenges shaping this dynamic field. Stephanie offers her deep insights into current hiring trends, the future of work, and the evolving recruitment landscape in plastics and packaging.
In this interview, Stephanie addresses these pivotal questions about the current state of hiring in the lighting sector:
- What is the state of the job market in the plastics and packaging manufacturing industry, and are there any notable trends?
- How are new technologies and developments in materials science affecting the job market and creating new roles in the plastics and packaging sector?
- What are the main challenges in recruiting for the plastics and packaging industry, and how do you assist clients in overcoming these obstacles?
Read on for Stephanie’s insightful responses or watch the detailed discussion in the video below!
Current Trends in Plastics and Packaging Recruitment
What is the state of the job market in the plastic and packaging manufacturing industry, and are there any unique trends?
“The industry is experiencing steady growth, fueled by increasing demand for packaged goods and a shift towards sustainable plastics and packaging solutions.
Automation and technology are becoming increasingly prevalent in the industry. Environmental concerns and consumer demand drive a notable trend towards sustainable, eco-friendly packaging solutions, both leading to a shift in hiring needs. The rise of bioplastics alone is forecasted to reach a market value of $18.7 billion by 2031.
Factors such as remote work, work-life balance, skill gaps, and sustainability concerns influence hiring practices, aligning with broader trends across industries.”
- Stephanie Viboch, Recruiting Manager
Stephanie highlights the dynamic expansion of the job market in the Plastics and Packaging industry, driven by a surge in demand for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. She notes the importance of roles that blend technology with eco-friendly practices, such as automation engineering and sustainability management, which are crucial in meeting the industry's evolving needs. Supporting this, Kaizen HR Solutions reports a 1.2% growth in the plastics manufacturing sector, adding around 14,200 new jobs over the past year. Furthermore, according to Packaging Gateway, the global plastic packaging market is expected to grow significantly, driven by environmental concerns and consumer demand for sustainable products. These trends underscore the need for companies to adapt their recruitment strategies to attract and retain top talent in these emerging areas.
Technological Advancements Reshaping Roles
How are new technologies and developments in materials science affecting the job market and creating new roles in the plastics and packaging sector?
In today's world, manufacturing and materials science are changing the game for plastics and packaging. This means a whole new set of skills and jobs is on the horizon. Thanks to digitalization and Industry 4.0, we need automation, data analysis, and cybersecurity experts to keep everything running smoothly in this digital era.
But it's not just about tech—sustainability is a big deal, too. We're finding smarter ways to recycle plastic and even make it from plants with things like bioplastics. That's where recycling engineers, bioplastics researchers, and sustainability managers come in, leading the charge for eco-friendly practices.
Then there's the cool stuff - like packaging that can sense freshness or fight off germs. Creating these smart packages takes a team of materials scientists, electronics specialists, and design pros who know how to make things look good and work even better. And let's remember personalization. Digital printing lets us customize packaging like never before.
So, as the plastics and packaging world evolves, we need a diverse workforce to keep up with the changing times. Companies should look at opportunities to upskill current employees and partner with community colleges and vocational schools.
- Stephanie Viboch, Recruiting Manager
Stephanie emphasizes that technological advancements are revolutionizing the Plastics and Packaging sector, necessitating a new suite of skills and roles. With the industry's shift towards sustainable practices and digital technology integration, there's an increasing demand for specialists such as bioplastics researchers, recycling process engineers, and digital printing experts. The Packaging Dive reports that innovations like automation, robotics, IoT, and AI are transforming production lines and supply chains, creating roles for automation engineers, data analysts, and cybersecurity specialists. Additionally, Stephanie’s findings from PMC PubMed Central highlights the industry's push towards sustainability and circular economy models, further driving the need for roles like sustainability managers who can oversee these initiatives. Stephanie points out that these changes require a workforce adept at merging technical skills with environmental consciousness, which is essential for propelling the industry forward.
Strategies for Overcoming Recruitment Challenges
What are the main challenges in recruiting for the plastics and packaging industry, and how do you assist clients in overcoming these obstacles?
“Recruiting the right talent can be a real challenge in the fast-paced world of plastics and packaging. First, there's a shortage of skilled workers. Plus, with competition from other sectors, and everyone vying for the best of the best, it's like a talent gold rush, especially for those skilled roles. Then, there's the hiring process itself. Top talent won't stick around for a frustrating experience.
This is where I come in and truly partner with my clients. I work with companies to build killer employer brands. By showcasing what makes a company unique, we can attract perfect-fit candidates. I advise my clients on best practices and market research on streamlined hiring processes, DEIB, and competitive compensation packages. I also tap into my vast industry network to find hidden gems—the passive candidates who would be perfect for the job.
Investing in a partnership with a recruiting firm isn't just about finding talent—it's about securing your company's future success in a competitive, ever-changing landscape - saving time and money along the way.”
- Stephanie Viboch, Recruiting Manager
Stephanie Viboch masterfully addresses the multifaceted challenges faced in plastics and packaging recruitment. She understands that a swift and efficient hiring process and competitive compensation packages are just the starting point. With her strategic insight, Stephanie advises on crafting an irresistible employer brand that stands out in today’s competitive landscape. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of streamlined processes that not only enhance the candidate experience but also boost retention by ensuring that top talent feels valued from the first interaction. These proven strategies are vital for attracting and retaining skilled professionals in a sector that is as dynamic as it is demanding.
Conclusion
Plastics and packaging recruitment is a dynamic field that requires a deep understanding of both market trends and recruitment strategies. With guidance from experts like Stephanie Viboch, Blue Signal is equipped to assist companies in finding and securing the best talent. As the industry continues to evolve with new technologies and sustainability practices, being proactive and strategic in recruitment efforts is key to success.
Meet Stephanie Viboch: Expert in Plastics and Packaging Recruitment
Partnering with Stephanie Viboch means accessing a wealth of knowledge and experience that can transform your recruitment approach in the plastics and packaging industry. Her expertise helps companies navigate the complex hiring landscape, overcome obstacles, and secure the industry's best talent. Let Stephanie guide you with her expert advice and innovative solutions, ensuring you meet your staffing needs with top-tier candidates. If you're ready to enhance your recruitment strategy and pave the way for sustained success, connect with Stephanie and take the first step towards optimizing your workforce.
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