The profession of engineer is the most attractive job in Belgium, according to a study published on Friday by HR service provider Randstad.
The study used criteria such as salary level, work-life balance, working conditions, and job security to measure attractiveness.
Although engineering is considered the most attractive profession by approximately 3,000 respondents, its popularity has decreased from 63% in 2019 to 56% today. This trend is observed across all top-ranking professions, while less popular jobs have gained appeal.
The role of surgeon ranks second with an attractiveness score of 54%. The medical sector is well represented, with the professions of doctor and veterinarian ranking third and tenth, respectively.
Corporate executive and department head positions are among the top 20 roles for men but are rated less attractive by women. Women also give lower scores to roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
"Efforts to make STEM education more appealing to women seem to have little impact on their perception of these careers," observes Aline Bernard, Randstad’s spokesperson.
The professions of fisherman and bicycle courier are the least attractive in Belgium. Only 17% of respondents consider them appealing, and 56% would not recommend the fishing profession to their relatives. Other jobs deemed unattractive include taxi driver, doorman, industrial cleaner, domestic help, and packer.
