In 2025, Italy continues to experience labor shortages across several key industries, highlighting a growing demand for both skilled and unskilled workers. According to recent reports, 37 occupations face critical gaps, with the most in-demand roles spanning manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and food services.

Top In-Demand Occupations in Italy

Among the 37 shortage occupations, the following roles have emerged as the most sought-after in the Italian labor market:

• Manufacturing Labourers (Not Elsewhere Classified) – Unspecified general manufacturing roles remain crucial due to rising industrial demands.
• Welders and Flame Cutters – Skilled professionals capable of handling metal fabrication and industrial cutting processes are in short supply.
• Bakers, Pastry Cooks, and Confectionery Makers – The food production sector requires more artisans to meet the ongoing demand for traditional and modern baked goods.
• Food Service Counter Attendants – The hospitality industry faces persistent shortages of staff to manage customer service roles at counters and fast-food outlets.
• Healthcare Assistants – With an aging population, the need for healthcare support workers continues to grow across hospitals and long-term care facilities.
• Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Equipment Technicians – The healthcare sector urgently seeks professionals trained to operate diagnostic and therapeutic devices.
• Personal Services Workers (Not Elsewhere Classified) – Various unspecified personal care roles, such as beauty and wellness specialists, remain in high demand.
• Computer Network and System Technicians – The expanding digital economy requires experts to manage and maintain complex IT networks and systems.
• Physicians and Engineering Science Technicians (Not Elsewhere Certified) – Technical support staff in medical and engineering fields are critical for research and practical applications.
• Software and Applications Developers and Analysts (Not Elsewhere Certified) – The growing technology sector has an increasing need for software professionals and data analysts with specialized expertise.

Lack of Data on Surplus Occupations

While the report clearly identifies sectors experiencing shortages, Italy has not provided specific information regarding occupations facing a labor surplus. This lack of data makes it challenging to assess the balance of supply and demand across all industries.

Implications for Job Seekers and Employers

The identified shortages present significant opportunities for both domestic job seekers and international professionals considering a move to Italy. For employers, addressing these gaps may require offering competitive salaries, investing in workforce training, and considering recruitment from abroad.

As Italy continues to navigate the complexities of its labor market, these in-demand roles will remain essential for sustaining economic growth and ensuring critical services are adequately staffed.