Hiring in the skilled trades isn’t as easy as it used to be. With a shortage of qualified workers and stiff competition among employers, simply posting a job isn’t enough. If your job listings aren’t getting the responses you need, it’s time to rethink how you attract blue-collar talent.
At Blue Collar Recruits, we specialize in connecting skilled workers with top employers. Here’s how to craft a job posting that actually gets applicants—instead of getting ignored.
1. Start with a Clear, Attention-Grabbing Job Title
Your job title is the first thing candidates see. It should be specific and searchable. Avoid vague or generic titles like:
❌ “Technician Needed”
❌ “Hiring Now – Great Pay!”
Instead, use industry-standard job titles and add details that highlight the opportunity:
✅ “HVAC Service Technician – No On-Call + $2,000 Sign-On Bonus”
✅ “Journeyman Plumber – Full Benefits + Paid Training”
2. Be Transparent About Pay and Benefits
One of the biggest mistakes employers make is hiding salary information. Skilled workers want to know if a job is worth their time before they apply. Job listings that include salary ranges get more applications than those that don’t.
🔹 Good Example: “Pay: $28–$35/hr + performance bonuses”
🔹 Great Example: “$30/hr + Overtime | Full Benefits | 401(k) with Company Match”
List benefits clearly, including:
✅ Health insurance
✅ PTO & vacation days
✅ 401(k) & retirement plans
✅ Sign-on bonuses
✅ Paid training & certifications
3. Write a Straightforward Job Description
Skip the fluff—get to the point. Use bullet points to make key information easy to scan.
Bad Example (Too Generic & Wordy):
“We are a leading plumbing company that prides itself on customer service. We are looking for an experienced professional who can handle a variety of plumbing tasks. The ideal candidate will be a team player and have a strong work ethic.”
Good Example (Specific & Engaging):
Your Day-to-Day:
- Install, repair, and maintain residential plumbing systems
- Diagnose issues and communicate solutions to customers
- Work with a team to complete jobs efficiently
What You Need:
- At least 2 years of plumbing experience
- State plumbing license or ability to obtain one
- Strong customer service skills
4. Highlight What Makes Your Company Different
Why should a skilled worker choose your company over another? Emphasize what makes your workplace unique:
✅ No on-call shifts? Mention it!
✅ Fast-track promotions? Call it out!
✅ Family-owned business with a tight-knit team? Say it!
🔹 Example: “We’re a locally owned company where employees are treated like family. No corporate red tape—just a solid team that has your back.”
5. Make Applying Simple and Fast
If your application process is too long, candidates won’t bother. Keep it short:
🔹 Accept resumes via email or text
🔹 Use “Quick Apply” options
🔹 Avoid unnecessary questions or forms
📌 Pro Tip: Many skilled workers aren’t actively job hunting but are open to better opportunities. Make it easy for them to express interest—consider adding a “Let’s Talk” button for quick contact.
6. Post on the Right Platforms
A great job listing won’t work if no one sees it. Post where skilled workers are already looking:
✅ Blue Collar Recruits Job Board (specialized for skilled trades!)
✅ Industry-specific job boards
✅ Local trade schools & apprenticeship programs
✅ Facebook groups for tradespeople
✅ LinkedIn & Indeed
7. Follow Up Quickly
Skilled trades workers have options. If you wait too long to respond, they’ll move on. Reach out within 24–48 hours of an application. Even a quick text or email saying, “Got your application—let’s talk soon!” keeps them engaged.
Final Takeaway: Keep It Clear, Honest, and Simple
A well-written job listing should make it easy for candidates to see:
✅ What the job is
✅ What it pays
✅ Why it’s worth applying for
✅ How to apply quickly
At Blue Collar Recruits, we help employers like you find the best talent in the trades. Need help filling positions fast? Post your job today and start hiring smarter.