Written By: Brayden Fredrickson

Recently, we’ve been talking to a growing number of candidates in the building materials industry who have been laid off or are quietly looking for new opportunities. Many of them work for foreign manufacturers or distributors that import products into the U.S., and they’re feeling the impact of tariff uncertainty firsthand.
Tariffs are meant to boost American manufacturing and create jobs, but the reality isn’t that simple. While some companies benefit, others struggle with rising costs—costs that eventually hit builders, homebuyers, and even American workers at foreign-owned businesses.

Here’s what to consider as tariffs continue to shake up the industry:

1. Tariffs Create Jobs for American Manufacturers

Tariffs make imported materials more expensive, which helps U.S. manufacturers compete. That means more companies are producing things like windows, siding, and roofing domestically, leading to more jobs in American factories. For job seekers, this could mean more opportunities in manufacturing and production roles.

2. Higher Costs for Builders and Homebuyers

There’s a trade-off, though. Many building materials—steel, aluminum, lumber—are either imported or have imported components. When tariffs raise the cost of those materials, manufacturers pass the increase down to builders, which eventually drives up home prices. So while jobs in manufacturing may grow, the added costs can slow construction and create uncertainty for builders and suppliers.

3. Foreign-Owned Companies May Cut U.S. Jobs

Not every American job is protected by tariffs. Many foreign-owned manufacturers have U.S. operations, and when tariffs make importing their products too expensive, they sometimes cut jobs or even shut down facilities. That’s why we’re seeing American workers—particularly those at foreign-owned suppliers and distributors—starting to feel the squeeze.

4. What This Means for Hiring

For professionals in the building materials industry, tariffs create a mix of opportunity and risk. Some companies are growing and hiring, while others are scaling back. It’s a shifting landscape, and staying ahead means keeping an eye on industry trends, being open to new opportunities, and knowing where the jobs are moving.

---

Looking for Your Next Move? We Can Help.

At BRIX Recruiting Partners, we help building materials professionals navigate changes in the job market. Whether you're hiring or looking for a new opportunity, we’re here to connect you with the right people.