Discover the latest global insights in the additive manufacturing job market for both employers and job seekers. In this guide, we’ll share the key takeaways from our annual salary survey.
Hiring and Workforce Trends
Last year, we saw the trend of market consolidation continue from 2023 into 2024, with Nano Dimension acquiring both Desktop Metal and MarkForged. We expect this trend to continue into 2025, increasing stability within the industry and accelerating research and development efforts.
However, while market consolidation can help reduce competition between manufacturers, we are seeing a decline in hardware sales and reduced revenue, which has been a challenge for businesses in 2024, resulting in slower workforce growth.
The demand for talent fell globally in 2024 by as much as 21% in EMEA. As a result, less talent entered the industry, which could become a challenge in 2025, as when market growth begins to accelerate, there won’t be enough skilled workers to support a growing industry.
In 2025, employers will need to focus on more targeted recruitment efforts and employee retention to accommodate the smaller number of skilled candidates in the job pool. This could look like a focus on benefits beyond salary, such as flexible working arrangements, career progression and emphasis on company culture, as professionals value a clear growth pathway and supportive work environment.
The current hiring and workforce trends have resulted in skills shortages in certain roles, such as Machine Operators and Technicians, which are essential to every Additive Manufacturing business. There is also a significant skills gap for Application and Consulting professionals with a need for expertise in roles that will drive the adoption of additive manufacturing technology.
Key takeaways for employers: Focus on targeted recruitment, employee retention and enhanced benefits.
Key takeaways for candidates: Focus on developing in-demand skills to seize opportunities in a competitive market.
Economic Trends
The global additive manufacturing market fell 12.3% short of its projected growth in 2024 at $16.2 billion. The main economic factors that contributed to this included high inflation and interest rates. Alongside global inflation, salaries grew modestly in 2024 across North America and EMEA, however salaries in APAC fell by 1.1%. Inflation has eroded real earnings and to combat this employers need to consider matching their salary packages to remain competitive in 2025.
In previous years we have seen much more professional mobility across the job market, with talent changing job roles much more frequently. In 2025, we expect to see professionals continue to be much more cautious when it comes to switching roles due to uncertainty in the market, valuing job stability over career progression.
Key takeaways for employers: Align salaries with inflation, and focus on employee retention to retain top talent.
Key takeaways for candidates: Candidates with in-demand skills will be able to negotiate better terms.
Key Opportunities for 2025
While there has been slow growth in certain areas of additive manufacturing in 2024, we have seen other services grow significantly, and expect to see continued growth in 2025. The most affected industries include Military and Defense contracts and Reshoring efforts. We are also seeing growth across advanced manufacturing technologies like AI and IoT. Companies investing in these technologies are setting themselves up for long-term success and a competitive edge in 2025 and beyond.
Key takeaways for employers: Investing in emerging technologies will futureproof companies against economic difficulties.
Key takeaways for candidates: Candidates with experience in advanced technologies and applications in growing sectors will find the most promising opportunities in an evolving market.
Hiring in 2025 or Considering a Role Change?
Looking to expand your team in 2025? The team at Alexander Daniels Global can help you to find the best fit for the role from system engineers to C-suite leaders—Simply contact us today!
If you’re a professional in the additive manufacturing industry, get in touch with our helpful team to find your next role. Alternatively, browse the career portal to apply for our job vacancies. We also have a wealth of HR resources to help you stay on top of hiring trends.
