#Japan #Tokyo #SeniorJob #SeniorEmployment #ManufacturingJobs

A Shift in Manufacturing: Welcoming Seniors in 2025

As work dynamics evolve, more seniors are finding opportunities in the manufacturing sector. Senior Job Co., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has conducted an intriguing survey on the employment trends of seniors within manufacturing from January 1 to October 24, 2025. This survey, which examined data from seniors who secured jobs through their specialized job platform, "Senior Job," revealed some surprising and promising trends that reflect a growing acceptance and demand for senior workers.

Key Findings from the Survey

The survey exhibited a notable trend: over 60% of seniors employed in manufacturing are taking on part-time or temporary roles. Furthermore, 60.9% of these seniors reported having no prior experience in the specific roles they applied for.
Here are the three main characteristics driving this employment trend:
1. Flexible Work Options: A significant 60.9% of seniors are being hired in part-time or temporary positions, indicating a robust trend towards more flexible working conditions.
2. Experience Diversity: Interestingly, 60.9% of applicants reported being inexperienced in their roles. However, many have relevant experience in related jobs, which can enhance their adaptability and success in new roles.
3. Forklift Qualification: Among seniors working in manufacturing, 43.5% hold forklift operating certifications, suggesting an untapped capacity within this demographic eager to contribute.

A Changing Perception of Seniors in Manufacturing

In the past, manufacturing jobs were often overlooked by seniors who feared that their physical health and capabilities would hinder their employment. However, a growing number of seniors in their 60s and even 70s are now entering this field. This change is happening concurrently with a shift in the perception of senior workers, as companies begin to recognize the value they bring.

Flexibility and Experience: The Working Landscape

The survey indicated that 60.9% of seniors in manufacturing were in part-time positions. While full-time employment trends have favored seniors looking for stable roles in sales or administrative positions, manufacturing remains a different beast. The unique nature of this sector inherently favors more flexible work structures, which aligns with seniors looking for less physically demanding options.

Evaluating Experience

Focusing on the experience levels, the report showed that a significant majority (82.6%) had less than ten years of relevant experience. However, it's promising to notice that many seniors possess over 20 years of experience in various fields, making them suitable for roles that value seasoned expertise. For instance, seniors with backgrounds in culinary arts, who may be new to the manufacturing side, could seamlessly transition to roles like food processing due to their transferable skills.

The Statistics Speak

The average age of seniors who secured jobs in the manufacturing sector was 59.1 years, with some as old as 70. Furthermore, a majority hailed from the Kanto and Kansai regions, showing a regional disproportion in employment opportunities.
On average, seniors applied for 2.3 jobs, with over 52.2% securing positions through a single application. This indicates a positive trend for hiring within this demographic, who often find it easier to secure jobs than they did in past decades.

Forklift Certifications: A Notable Trend

Perhaps surprisingly, many seniors possess forklift operation certifications, which contribute to their employability in manufacturing roles. At 43.5%, this statistic stands out, hinting at a broader recognition of the importance of these qualifications in various job functions. Forklift certifications do not only apply to jobs explicitly involving forklift operations but also to roles where such skills can provide utility, thereby enhancing the worker's marketability.

Conclusion: Embracing Senior Workforce in Manufacturing

These emerging trends underscore a significant turning point in how the manufacturing industry views and employs senior workers. With a considerable proportion of part-time and inexperienced employees, the sector has evidently become more open to including seniors. As corporate culture continues to embrace diverse backgrounds and experiences, seniors can expect not only more opportunities but also a redefined role within the manufacturing landscape. Accelerating this shift will require consistent encouragement and acknowledgment of the valuable strengths that older workers bring to the table.

The findings from "Senior Job" reveal not just the evolving employment landscape but also serve as a beacon of hope for many seniors seeking fulfilling work experiences at this stage in their lives.