From reactive to proactive: Rethinking hiring in roofing

By Jenny Yu.  

Hi-Peak Staffing Solutions helps roofing companies develop a strategic approach to workforce planning. 

In a recent Roofing Road Trips® episode, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with Kristin Case, managing partner at Hi-Peak Staffing Solutions, shared insights into why hiring challenges persist and how contractors can take a more strategic approach to workforce planning. 

Kristin, whose firm specializes exclusively in roofing recruitment, said many companies fall into a reactive hiring cycle that ultimately slows operations. “Companies tend to be more reactive when they’re ready to hire,” Kristin explained. “All of a sudden it’s, ‘We have to hire now,’ and hiring takes a backseat. Then the role’s been open, and now we’re behind on projects.” 

In being reactive, crews often experience additional strain, especially in the busy seasons when they’re already stretched thin. Without a clear hiring strategy, roles remain unfilled longer, impacting project timelines and, ultimately, revenue.  

When roofing contractors are ready to take a more proactive approach to hiring, Kristin emphasized knowing the difference between traditional recruiters and strategic hiring partners. “A recruiter’s responsibility is to fill your roles,” she said. “A strategic partner is really forecasting. What does your year look like? What’s most important now and what’s on the horizon?” 

By understanding seasonality and business cycles within roofing, strategic partners can help contractors anticipate workforce needs rather than scramble to fill gaps. In addition, strategic partners prioritize access to qualified workers. “When you’re specialized like we are, we have a pipeline of candidates,” Kristin shared. “When we understand contractors’ needs, we’re already on the back end starting to stack that pipeline so we can execute quickly.” 

For contractors unsure when to seek outside support, Kristin pointed to common warning signs: “Staff is spread too thin, roles have been open too long and your growth goals are there but you’re not able to reach them.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about how Hi-Peak Staffing Solutions helps roofing companies adopt a forward-looking hiring approach.