Sarnia-Lambton employers continue to face hiring challenges, but there are signs of progress, according to the recently released 2025 EmployerOne Survey from the Sarnia-Lambton Workforce Development Board (SLWDB).
What’s new this year?
● 53% of the 323 businesses surveyed reported having hard-to-fill positions, down from 61% last year.
● Slight improvement in the availability of qualified workers: 52% rated availability as “excellent” or“ good,” up from 49%.
● Two-thirds of local employers plan to hire in the coming year.
While the region still experiences relatively high unemployment, 10.2% in January 2025, the survey results highlight a persistent mismatch between job seekers' qualifications and employers' needs, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, early childhood education, and social assistance, where turnover is high and roles are demanding.
The survey suggests that better outcomes result from more tailored job postings, as well as job seekers applying strategically based on their skills and interests.
At Invest Sarnia, we work closely with SLWDB and other partners to connect businesses with workforce solutions. If you’re planning to grow your team this year and want to explore tools or training support, reach out—we’re here to help.
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