MRO & Engineering Report 2024

The aviation and airline sectors are constantly evolving in response to market dynamics and customer needs. As the talent landscape in MRO and Engineering grows more complex, aviation businesses and airlines must understand candidate trends and address the drivers and career aspirations of their workforce.

In our second year of conducting the MRO and Engineering survey, we aim to identify key trends on critical topics such as job security, retention, well-being, reward, career development, advocacy, and benefits.

The report draws insights from surveys conducted in 2023 and 2024, offering a clear picture of the evolving landscape in the field of MRO & Engineering in Aviation.

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Read the MRO & Engineering Report

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Job security

Concerns over job security have increased, with 54% of employees worried about their positions in 2024. While UK workers remain the least concerned, 80% in the Americas feel insecure. The leading cause of insecurity has shifted from the cost of living crisis to a lack of feedback and progression plans, highlighting an urgent need for improved communication.

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Talent retention

Alarmingly, 75% of permanent employees plan to change jobs, with career advancement now the top motivator for job seekers. Furthermore, 60% of respondents reported being headhunted recently, and more professionals are open to relocating for new opportunities.

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Stress and well-being

48% of respondents rated their stress levels as high, primarily due to workload, leadership style, and deadlines. Additionally, fewer MRO and Engineering professionals feel valued this year. Despite these challenges, 33% of respondents feel happy or very happy at work.

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Career referral

While 82% of survey respondents felt optimistic about their career prospects, nearly one in five expressed doubts. Although 70% agreed on sufficient diversity, the male dominance of respondents to the survey highlights a need for greater inclusivity, with 64% advocating for enhanced diversity initiatives. With 88% satisfied in their careers and 85% willing to recommend them to young people, the industry must address skills gaps and diversity to maintain this positive trend.

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Reward

42% of respondents received regular pay reviews, but a decrease in pay rises was noted, with only 79% reporting a raise in the past five years. Notably, those who changed jobs secured higher pay increases compared to those who stayed loyal. Transparency around pay practices was highlighted as essential. Furthermore, 98% believe that job advertisements should include salary and benefits information to attract suitable candidates.

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Benefits and shift patterns

The top benefits received included accommodation allowances, bonuses, and private medical coverage. However, over two-thirds of respondents feel their employers do not provide enough benefits, a rise from 60% last year. 49% currently work Monday to Friday, but many expressed a desire for more flexible options, such as four weeks on and four weeks off (19% desired vs. 5% currently) and two weeks on and two weeks off (20% desired vs. 4% currently).

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Read the MRO & Engineering Report

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Contact the authors​

For a detailed discussion of the report's findings, please contact the authors directly:

• Mark Charman, CEO & Founder

• Martin Bennell, Group Chief Operating Officer

• Samantha Wilson, Associate Director of Executive Search and Aviation Recruitment

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Media Enquiries

For media enquiries and interviews, please contact the GOOSE Recruitment Marketing Team