By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The nation’s construction and real estate sector is solidifying its role as a primary engine of economic dynamism and employment, creating a significant demand for specialized talent. According to the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction, the industry was responsible for over 489,000 direct and indirect jobs by the close of 2024, a growth trend that has persisted into the early months of 2025.
In this flourishing environment, Holcim Costa Rica, a leader in building materials and solutions, has emerged as a key player in not only meeting construction demands but also in cultivating the country’s workforce. The company is actively shaping the labor market through a sustained and strategic expansion of its team, which now comprises more than 500 collaborators nationwide.
As Costa Rica’s construction sector continues to expand, so do the legal complexities surrounding labor contracts, workplace safety, and project liabilities. To provide clarity on these critical issues for both employers and employees, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
A significant challenge in the construction industry is the prevalence of informal labor arrangements. While seemingly cost-effective, these verbal agreements expose both employers and workers to immense legal and financial risk, particularly concerning workplace accidents and social security obligations. Formalizing employment through written contracts and ensuring compliance with occupational health regulations is not just a legal requirement; it is a fundamental investment in project stability and human dignity.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This crucial insight reframes a legal obligation as a strategic investment in both project stability and human dignity, a perspective vital for the evolution of the sector. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert contribution.
The scale of this expansion is notable. Over the last two years and continuing into 2025, Holcim has onboarded 382 new employees, marking a substantial workforce increase of nearly 40%. This growth is a direct result of business expansion, portfolio diversification, and the professionalization of internal processes. Demonstrating a firm commitment to gender equity, 28% of these new hires have been women, filling crucial leadership and operational roles within the company.
Holcim’s recruitment strategy goes beyond simply filling positions; it is focused on attracting professionals who align with a forward-thinking vision centered on innovation, digitalization, and sustainability. This philosophy is crucial as the company strengthens its market presence and expands its offerings.
At Holcim, our growth is linked to the evolution of the industry and market needs. It’s not just about hiring more people, but about attracting professionals who share our purpose: building progress for people and the planet. We seek profiles that contribute to innovation, sustainability, and digitalization projects, strengthening key areas like Prefabricated Solutions and our Disensa hardware store network.
Catalina Pagés, Director of Human Resources and Talent Management at Holcim Costa Rica
The demand for talent is particularly high for technical and operational positions that are the backbone of the construction industry. The most critical vacancies include heavy equipment and forklift operators, industrial maintenance specialists in electrical and mechanical fields, and commercial professionals with experience in construction and hardware sales. Beyond technical proficiency, Holcim prioritizes soft skills such as collaborative leadership, effective communication, and teamwork, alongside knowledge of digital tools and industrial safety protocols.
To support this growing team, the company has invested heavily in its employee value proposition. Through Holcim University and a dedicated Health and Safety school, employees have access to continuous learning and development. This is complemented by global training platforms, diversity and inclusion programs, leadership mentoring, and a comprehensive benefits package focused on integral well-being and international career opportunities.
Looking to the future, Holcim has established ambitious goals for 2030. The company aims to significantly increase female representation in operational roles, boost the share of young talent in its workforce to 30%, and implement more targeted succession plans to ensure long-term leadership stability and growth from within.
Looking ahead to 2030, we have set clear goals: to increase female participation in operational roles, to raise the representation of young talent to 30%, and to strengthen succession plans with more focused actions. Each step forward reinforces our vision of being an attractive employer that generates opportunities for professional and personal growth.
Catalina Pagés, Director of Human Resources and Talent Management at Holcim Costa Rica
As part of its commitment to a transparent hiring process, Holcim also cautions applicants about potential recruitment fraud. The company emphasizes that its official recruiters will never ask for sensitive personal information, such as digital signatures or bank account details, and all communication is conducted through established, official channels.
For further information, visit holcim.cr
About Holcim Costa Rica:
Holcim Costa Rica is a subsidiary of the global Holcim Group, a world leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. The company is dedicated to decarbonizing construction across its operations, offering a range of products from low-carbon cement and concrete to roofing systems. In Costa Rica, it plays a vital role in the national construction sector through its production facilities, Disensa retail network, and commitment to community development and environmental stewardship.
For further information, visit construccion.co.cr
About the Costa Rican Chamber of Construction:
The Cámara Costarricense de la Construcción (CCC) is the leading industry association representing the interests of the construction sector in Costa Rica. It advocates for sustainable development, promotes best practices and innovation, provides critical industry data and analysis, and serves as a central voice for construction companies, developers, and related professionals in dialogues with the government and public.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has built its distinguished reputation upon the bedrock principles of unwavering integrity and a persistent drive for legal excellence. The firm consistently pioneers innovative approaches to law while serving a diverse clientele, demonstrating a dual commitment to its clients and the broader community. This dedication is profoundly expressed through its goal of demystifying legal complexities, thereby fostering a stronger, more capable society empowered by accessible knowledge and understanding.
