Construction is one of the top industries increasing graduate hiring in 2026, according to a report from Hirevue.
The findings point to continued demand for new talent in construction, even as overall hiring growth slows and employers take a more cautious approach.
Construction Remains a Hiring Bright Spot
The report identifies construction alongside professional services, engineering, finance and consulting as leading sectors for graduate hiring growth in 2026.
U.S. employers are expected to increase hiring for the Class of 2026 by 1.6%, reflecting modest but steady demand.
While growth has cooled from 2024 levels, construction and other traditional industries continue to show resilience.
Shift Toward Skills-Based Hiring
The hiring landscape is evolving, with construction firms increasingly focused on skills rather than traditional credentials.
About 70% of U.S. employers report using skills-based hiring practices, while more than a quarter have discussed relaxing degree requirements to expand the talent pool.
Soft skills like communication and teamwork, along with digital and technical capabilities, are in high demand.
Recruiting Challenges Persist
Despite steady hiring demand, employers face growing challenges managing high application volumes and longer hiring timelines.
- Average time from interview to decision: 27.3 days
- Offer acceptance rates rising to 78.3%
- Reneged offers increasing to 10%
Lean recruiting teams and rising costs are adding pressure, particularly as firms compete for early-career talent.
AI and Technology Play a Larger Role
Employers are increasingly turning to AI and automation to manage recruiting workloads. About 22% currently use AI tools, primarily for résumé screening and scheduling, with another 22% planning to adopt them within a year.
At the same time, candidate use of AI is raising new concerns around authenticity and evaluation.
Overall, the report suggests construction firms will continue to compete for early-career talent in 2026, balancing cautious hiring plans with the need to build a skilled workforce for future demand.
