Chris Englin, Seattle-based HR Recruiter
The year ahead promises a dynamic—but encouraging—labor market. We have seen our share of recalibration, restructuring, and strategic hiring slowdowns across many industries. We know that we’ll be seeing layoffs in the Seattle area as some have been announced. For HR leaders and hiring managers, understanding what’s shifting—and why—will be important in planning when and whom to hire in 2026.
Below, I’m sharing guidance for both employers looking to build teams and candidates ready for their next career step.
Hiring Trends To Pay Attention To: Strategic Growth Over Volume Hiring
Organizations across the U.S. are approaching this year cautiously, but with more clarity than in the previous two years. While we are not returning to the hyper-growth, “hire as fast as possible” mentality of 2021–2022, we are seeing intentional expansion in several areas:
Quality Over Quantity
The theme for 2026 is deliberate scaling. Smart employers are focusing on hiring roles that directly support profitability, retention, compliance, new technology, and operational stability. Often these new roles are the result of a reorganization.
This approach particularly benefits senior-level HR professionals. HRBPs, Talent Leaders, Total Rewards, People Analytics, and Organizational Development remain in strong demand as organizations focus on culture, compliance, and capability-building.
HR Remains a Priority Function
After several years of whiplash—pandemic demands, DEI restructuring, location closures, shifting remote policies—HR teams have emerged as some of the most critical drivers of business success. We can expect to see:
- Growing investment in HR leadership roles
- Increased demand for compensation and benefits expertise
- Tech savvy managers for rebuilding People programs
- Renewed interest in talent acquisition for industries entering growth cycles
Companies who recognize that strong HR leadership reduces turnover, improves morale, and supports more resilient business planning will see the most success in these areas.
Industries Heating Up—and Those Cooling Down
Industries Trending Up for 2026
Healthcare & Life Sciences – Ongoing demand, demographic shifts, and new investments are driving expansion in HR, talent acquisition, and employee experience roles.
Manufacturing & Supply Chain – Reshoring and modernization efforts continue to create hiring needs in operations, compliance, training, and workforce planning.
Clean Energy & Sustainability – Corporate initiatives are pushing steady growth, particularly in HR roles that support high-volume hiring and change management.
Professional Services – Consulting, accounting, legal, and technical services firms are forecasting measured but positive growth.
Space Companies – Seattle has become the hot spot for the growing space industry with everything from rockets to satellite manufacturing and expanding into orbital data centers and lunar resources.
Industries Likely to Stay Cool
A few sectors may experience slower hiring or selective replacement rather than growth:
- Tech (Big Tech specifically) remains cautious, though mid-size SaaS and infrastructure companies continue to hire selectively.
- Retail faces margin pressure and may remain conservative.
- Media & Advertising continue adjusting to shifting revenue models.
That said, many HR roles within these sectors are still being prioritized—particularly if tied to compliance, workforce planning, or restructuring.
Advice for Companies Planning to Grow Teams in 2026
If you’re preparing to hire in 2026 here are the strategic moves that will help you stand out:
Clarify Your Workforce Plan Early
Start-of-year is the ideal time to assess:
- Role prioritization
- Internal mobility opportunities
- Compensation benchmarks
- Leadership capability gaps
- Retention of key employees
Clear planning now avoids reactive hiring mid-year.
Invest in Competitive, Transparent Compensation
Candidates are informed and selective. Pay transparency, market alignment, and meaningful benefits will make or break your hiring success—especially in HR roles.
Don’t Underestimate Passive Candidates
Many HR leaders are often happily employed, so proactive outreach, relationship-building, and strong employer branding will help attract top talent in a competitive high-skill market.
Partner with a Recruiter Who Understands HR
Hiring HR professionals requires nuance, confidentiality, and industry expertise. A specialized recruiter can shorten timelines, boost candidate quality, and ensure alignment with your strategic goals.
If you’d like to discuss your 2026 hiring needs, email Chris@BigWave.com to schedule a conversation.
Advice for Candidates Planning a Career Move in 2026
For HR professionals exploring new opportunities, this year presents encouraging prospects—especially if you approach your search with intention.
Refresh Your Personal Positioning
Update your résumé, LinkedIn profile, and leadership narrative to reflect:
- Quantifiable business impact
- Change management experience
- Strategic HR initiatives you’ve led
- Adaptability in uncertain environments
Position yourself as a stabilizer and growth partner—exactly what employers want this year.
Focus on Industry Alignment
Candidates willing to transition into growing industries (healthcare, manufacturing, sustainability, professional services) will find more opportunities and faster hiring cycles.
Be Open to Hybrid and On-Site Roles
While remote work is here to stay, many organizations are leaning toward hybrid models. Flexibility expands your options dramatically.
Build Relationships Before You Need Them
Networking remains the strongest predictor of finding a high-quality HR role. Reconnect with past colleagues, attend HR events, and reach out to recruiters early.
2026 Is a Year for Strategic Momentum
The 2026 job market is about intentional growth, smarter workforce strategy, and renewed stability across many sectors. For both employers and HR candidates, the year ahead holds opportunity—especially for those who prepare early and stay adaptable.
If you’d like specialized support with your hiring plans, we are the ones to call.
Email me at Chris@BigWave.com to schedule a discussion.
