Why Manufacturing Jobs Are Booming in Allentown and the Lehigh Valley
- CK Hobbie Group
- Oct 28
- 3 min read
For decades, the Lehigh Valley has been known for hard work, strong communities, and steady opportunity. That reputation hasn’t changed, but the jobs have.
Today, the manufacturing industry in the Lehigh Valley is experiencing a major comeback. From Allentown to Bethlehem to Easton, companies are hiring fast and struggling to find reliable workers.
If you’re looking for a stable career that pays well and lets you work with your hands, now’s the time to pay attention.
The Resurgence of Manufacturing in the Lehigh Valley
Manufacturing has always been a cornerstone of the Lehigh Valley’s economy — but recent years have brought it roaring back.
According to the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation, manufacturing now generates over $8 billion annually, making up nearly 16% of the region’s total GDP.
That’s higher than the national average and one of the reasons the area continues to attract new employers.
What’s driving this growth:
New technology and automation are creating fresh career paths
Local demand for skilled trades and reliable workers
Supply chain shifts bringing production back to the U.S.
Competitive pay and stable, full-time schedules
The bottom line: companies are producing more, hiring more, and struggling to fill open roles.
Why This Boom Matters for Local Job Seekers
If you live in or around Allentown, Bethlehem, or Easton, there’s never been a better time to start a manufacturing career close to home.
Manufacturers across the Lehigh Valley are hiring for entry-level and experienced positions — everything from machine operators and assemblers to technicians and quality inspectors.
Many of these roles offer on-the-job training, steady hours, and strong benefits. Even better? They often pay higher than retail, hospitality, or other hourly positions.
In fact, the average manufacturing wage in the Lehigh Valley tops $60,000/year, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
This kind of local opportunity doesn’t come around often — especially with employers this eager to hire.
The Role of Employment Agencies and Staffing Firms
With so many openings, manufacturers are turning to staffing firms like The CK Hobbie Group to help connect them with qualified candidates quickly.
That’s where we come in.
Our team helps local businesses find the right people — and helps job seekers get started without all the guesswork.
Here’s what that looks like in action:
Matching your skills and goals to open positions
Helping with résumé updates and interview prep
Streamlining hiring so you can start faster
Staying connected for future opportunities
For employers, it’s about filling crucial roles quickly.
For job seekers, it’s about working with someone who knows the local landscape — not a faceless online application system.
Technology Is Changing Manufacturing — in a Good Way
Gone are the days when manufacturing meant repetitive, back-breaking work.
Today’s facilities are cleaner, safer, and more automated than ever. Many companies are using advanced robotics, precision instruments, and computer-controlled systems.
That shift means new types of jobs — and new chances for people willing to learn. Whether you’re mechanically inclined, tech-savvy, or just reliable and ready to show up, there’s a place for you.
Local training programs through Lehigh Carbon Community College, Northampton Community College, and CareerLink Lehigh Valley offer certifications that can bump your pay and open doors to specialized roles.
The Skills Gap — and Why It’s an Opportunity
Across Pennsylvania, manufacturers say the biggest hiring challenge isn’t automation — it’s people.
There just aren’t enough skilled workers to meet demand.
That shortage gives job seekers a huge advantage.
Employers are more willing to train on the job, increase pay, and offer more flexible schedules to attract workers who show commitment and consistency.
If you’ve been thinking about switching industries or getting back into the workforce, this is your moment.
Why Local Matters
One of the biggest advantages of working with a local staffing agency like CK Hobbie is simple — we live and work here too.
We know the employers, the hiring managers, and the shifts that fit real life.
Whether you’re looking for first shift in Allentown or weekend work near Bethlehem, we help you find the right fit fast — no endless online forms or waiting weeks for a callback.
Ready to Get to Work?
The Lehigh Valley’s manufacturing sector is thriving, and opportunity is everywhere.
If you’re ready to build a career that lasts — one that offers stability, growth, and purpose — now’s the time to take the next step.
or call 610-433-3677 to connect with a recruiter today.
Let’s put the Lehigh Valley back to work — one great hire at a time.
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