As summer approaches, businesses across the civil construction and manufacturing sectors are gearing up for one of the busiest periods of the year. With major projects continuing through the warmer months—and many workers taking annual leave—employers often find themselves needing additional skilled labour to maintain productivity.

To help teams plan ahead, here are the top roles in demand this summer and why they matter.

1. Civil Labourers

Civil labourers remain one of the most sought-after roles during the December–January period. Increased project workloads, roadworks, and site shutdown preparations often require extra hands.

Typical duties include:

• General site labouring

• Spotting and assisting operators

• Site clean-up

• Traffic control support

Why they’re in demand:
Civil projects rarely slow down during summer, and flexible labour is essential to keep sites moving.

2. Plant & Machinery Operators

From excavator and skid steer operators to roller and watercart drivers, machinery operators are crucial during peak project periods.

Key industries:

• Road construction

• Subdivisions

• Rail and infrastructure upgrades

Why they’re in demand:
Operators are needed to cover increased workloads and provide coverage when permanent staff take leave.

3. Boilermakers & Welders

Manufacturing and fabrication workshops often push to complete end-of-year builds and prepare for January production schedules.

Skills in demand:

• Structural steel welding

• Heavy fabrication

• MIG/TIG/Stick welding

• Repair and maintenance work

Why they’re in demand:
Workshops need skilled tradespeople to keep production levels steady and meet project deadlines.

4. Assembly & Production Workers

Manufacturers across the Hunter and broader NSW region see an increase in orders leading into and out of the holiday period.

Typical duties:

• Machine operation

• Production line work

• Assembly of components and equipment

Why they’re in demand:
Businesses rely on casual and temporary employees to maintain output while permanent staff take breaks.

5. Stores, Dispatch & Warehouse Staff

Warehouse teams often require additional staffing to manage stock movements, inventory, and dispatch.

Common roles:

• Storepersons

• Forklift operators

• Pick/pack workers

• Dispatch coordinators

Why they’re in demand:
Supply chains experience seasonal spikes in both incoming and outgoing orders.

6. Trades Assistants

Civil and manufacturing trades assistants continue to be heavily requested due to their versatility and ability to support multiple departments.

Typical tasks:

• Assisting tradespeople

• Basic power tool use

• Pre-assembly and workshop support

Why they’re in demand:
They provide essential support that keeps projects moving efficiently.

7. Maintenance & Repair Personnel

Summer shutdown periods require maintenance crews to repair, rebuild, and prepare machinery and equipment for the year ahead.

Roles in demand:

• Fitters

• Mechanical trades

• Maintenance labourers

Why they’re in demand:
Many businesses schedule major maintenance during the quieter holiday window.

Planning Ahead for Summer Staffing

With increased workloads and reduced workforce availability, planning early is essential. Recruit Personnel works closely with civil, construction, and manufacturing businesses to secure qualified candidates ready for summer starts.

Whether you need short-term labour, skilled operators, tradespeople, or permanent placements, our team can help you stay fully staffed through the busiest time of the year.

📩 Get in touch with us to secure your summer workforce.  Contact our team on 02 4934 9900 to find out more.