Skilled trades in demand in Croatia: The top five and their salaries
- by croatiaweek
- in News

Skilled trades in high demand in Croatia
Skilled trades are among the most sought-after professions in Croatia.
With increasing demand for qualified workers across various sectors, certain trades have become critical for the country’s labour market.
N1 reveals the five most sought-after professions, according to an analysis by the Economic Institute in Zagreb and data from the Croatian Employment Service.
Top Five Trades in High Demand
The analysis highlights five trades that are particularly in demand:
Bricklayers (Zidari): The shortage of bricklayers became starkly evident after the Zagreb and Petrinja earthquakes in 2020. In the aftermath, graffiti reading “Fali zidara” (Bricklayers Needed) covered the city. While the gap has partially been filled with foreign labour, bricklayers remain a priority profession, with wages ranging from €744 to €2,104, N1 writes.
Waiters (Konobari): Often the backbone of Croatia’s bustling tourism industry, waiters can earn between €780 and €1,478, depending on experience and location.
Carpenters (Tesari): A key trade in construction, carpenters are in short supply, with salaries from €905 to €1,590.
Electricians (Elektroinstalateri): Demand for electricians has surged, offering pay between €940 and €2,113.
Chefs (Kuhari): With Croatia’s reputation as a culinary destination, skilled chefs earn between €794 and €2,429.
To address the shortage, the Croatian Employment Service recommends increasing enrolment in vocational schools and colleges for these professions.
Scholarships and other incentives are also suggested to encourage young people to pursue careers in these trades.
How Wages Compare
For context, the average net monthly salary in Croatia for November 2024 was €1,366. Within specific sectors, construction workers earned an average of €1,096, while those in accommodation and food services earned €1,108.
Whether through better education policies or competitive wages, these trades remain vital for the nation’s economy and recovery efforts.