Lithuanian manufacturing salaries rise, but competition for talent intensifies

Salaries in Lithuania's manufacturing sector are on an upward trend, with the average gross monthly wage reaching 2,400.6 Euros in the first quarter of 2026. This figure marks an 8.8% increase from the same period in the previous year and a significant 17.2% rise compared to the first quarter of 2024, according to data from the State Data Agency.

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In the manufacturing sector, the greatest competition has been for engineers, automation, technical maintenance, CNC, and other technological fields, so the salary growth in these positions has been the most significant.

Despite the growing wages, the competition for qualified specialists in the manufacturing industry remains intense. Personnel selection specialists observe that offering a competitive salary is no longer sufficient to attract candidates. Applicants are increasingly prioritizing career advancement, job stability, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.

Simonas Plytninkienė, a senior recruitment project specialist at "CV-Online LT," notes that salary growth rates have varied across different fields, regions, and employee qualifications over the past two years. The highest demand and most significant salary increases have been seen in positions requiring specialized skills, such as engineers, automation specialists, technical maintenance personnel, and CNC operators. "In the manufacturing sector, the greatest competition has been for engineers, automation, technical maintenance, CNC, and other technological fields, so the salary growth in these positions has been the most significant," Plytninkienė stated.

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Automated processes, robotization, and digital solutions mean that employees need more technical knowledge, the ability to analyze processes, and continuous learning. Therefore, investments in new equipment today are inseparable from investments in people.

Companies are actively seeking innovative ways to offer more than just competitive pay. "Grigeo Tissue," a manufacturing company recognized among Lithuania's best employers in the "Scoris" ranking, highlights a shift in strategy. Almantas Tamošiūnas, the company's head, explains that the focus has moved beyond just attracting employees to retaining and developing them. "Automated processes, robotization, and digital solutions mean that employees need more technical knowledge, the ability to analyze processes, and continuous learning," Tamošiūnas said. "Therefore, investments in new equipment today are inseparable from investments in people." The company plans to expand its team of 266 employees by approximately 60 specialists by 2028, emphasizing internal development programs alongside recruitment.

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Our experience shows that employees today expect not only competitive pay. Clear career opportunities, the chance to continuously improve competencies, and working in an environment where knowledge is shared daily are equally important. Therefore, we invest in employee development – from professional and technical training to leadership, project management, and internal trainer programs. As the company grows, we aim for people to grow with it – this ultimately creates a stronger organization and helps maintain a motivated team.