The data reveals intensifying competition for available positions, with the average applications per job posting doubling from 32.8 in Q1 2025 to 63.7 in Q1 2026. This shift indicates employers are becoming more cautious in their hiring approach whilst job seekers remain active in the market.

The five most popular job categories attracted over 1.7 million applications, representing 65% of the total. Drivers, automotive services and courier roles led with 475,941 applications, followed by production, warehousing and logistics with 376,076 applications. The hospitality sector recorded 327,822 applications, whilst cashier and retail positions saw 312,327 applications and sales agents attracted 215,929 applications.

Recent analysis confirms that architecture and construction remain the highest-paying sectors, with average monthly earnings reaching RON 6,521 (€1,304).

The automotive and driving services sector followed closely, reporting average salaries of RON 5,850 (€1,170). Meanwhile, professionals seeking international work opportunities saw offers averaging RON 5,829 (€1,165), slightly ahead of engineering and skilled trades, which recorded a mean of RON 5,717 (€1,143).

Whilst technical fields dominate the top of the pay scale, the education sector registered the most significant momentum. Despite a lower absolute value of RON 4,691 (€938), the field saw a 25.8% relative increase, marking the sharpest growth rate across all surveyed industries.

"The figures from Q1 2026 show a job market where candidates are more active than ever, but supply isn't keeping pace with demand," said Andreea Oancea, Senior Brand Manager at OLX Romania. "The fact that applications per job posting have doubled compared to last year means visibility and quality of job postings matter more than ever for employers."