Search for Engineers and Medics: The New Drivers of the Bulgarian Labor Market
Personnel Crisis and Open Perspectives
In the summer months of 2025, Bulgaria faces a tangible shortage of engineers and medical professionals. The reasons are complex: aging population, emigration of young talents, low salaries compared to international standards, and insufficient intake in technical and medical universities.
Labor Market Trends
- Over 260,000 open positions in the last year, with a significant share for engineers and medics;
- Healthcare experiences a deficit especially in small towns and regional hospitals;
- Engineers are sought in construction and the growing IT industry;
- Insufficiently motivated young professionals prefer careers outside the country;
Consequences for Business and Society
- Increased workload for existing personnel;
- Delay in infrastructure and innovation projects;
- Affected quality of patient and professional service;
New Opportunities and Solutions
- Employers offer increased salaries, additional training, flexible conditions, and social benefits;
- Recruiting foreign specialists for key sectors, which enriches the multicultural environment;
More and more companies and institutions are working to retain young people through career development programs and partnerships with universities.
Strategies for Long-Term Change
An effective solution requires:
- Stimulating interest in engineering and medical professions among students;
- Investments in modern educational infrastructure;
- Sustainable connections between business and higher education institutions;
Conclusion
The crisis with qualified personnel is both a challenge and a chance for change. If Bulgaria manages to attract and retain the necessary engineers and medics, the future will be more secure and promising for all Bulgarians.