The UK is home to many fortune 500 companies and has over 160 globally recognised universities offering placements in these organisations. Hence, in contrast to many other nations, the UK has the lowest unemployment rate of 3.8%. The UK job market has seen considerable changes and challenges in recent years, including the impact of COVID-19. It does, however, continue to adapt and evolve, with new opportunities resulting from technical advancements and shifting global patterns. Finding the most demanding jobs in the UK is critical for both – job seekers and companies. Get familiar with the top employers, salaries, fields, and designations in the UK that match your skills and abilities.
What Are The Current Job Trends In The UK (2023)?
The current job trends in the United Kingdom demonstrate an increasing need for competent individuals in fields such as technology, healthcare, sustainability, and remote work options. However, there are several other factors which have to be taken into consideration:
- As per the data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and their report on the UK labour market, the current job trends in the United Kingdom indicate a rising demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as technology, healthcare, sustainability, and remote work opportunities. Digital skills, adaptability, and flexible work arrangements are increasingly valued in response to the changing job market.
- The employment rate was predicted to be 75.9% from January to March 2023, with part-time and self-employed individuals driving the rise. However, payrolled employees in April 2023 decreased by 136,000 compared to the previous month, marking the first decline since February 2021.
- The unemployment rate for the same period increased by 0.1 percentage points to 3.9%, mainly due to long-term unemployment. Economic inactivity decreased by 0.4 percentage points to 21.0% from January to March 2023, particularly among individuals aged 16 to 24.
- Vacancies fell by 55,000 to 1,083,000 between February and April 2023, indicating industry-wide uncertainty.
- Average total pay growth was reported at 5.8%, with regular pay growth at 6.7% from January to March 2023. However, in real terms, total pay growth fell by 3.0% and regular pay growth by 2.0% compared to the previous year. Additionally, labour disputes resulted in 556,000 working days lost in March 2023, up from 332,000 in February 2023.
Top 10 Most Demanding Jobs In The UK – 2024
The following is the table of the most demanding jobs in the UK with average salary annually and detailed aspects and skills required for these jobs in the UK in recent years:
| Job Title | Average Salary (per year) |
| Director of Human Resources | £80,000 |
| Project Manager | £50,000 |
| Architects | £40,000 |
| Programmers and Software Developers | £45,000 |
| Graphic Designer | £25,000 |
| Cyber Security | £25,000 |
| Digital Marketing Consultant | £45,000 |
| Health Services and Residential Care | £21,000 – £30,000 |
| Physical Scientists | £29,000 |
| Sales Assistant | £16,977 |
Director of Human Resources
Human Resources Directors are responsible for creating and implementing HR strategies, managing talent acquisition and retention, supervising employee interactions, and assuring compliance with labour regulations. The demand for HR Directors is driven by the necessity for effective people management and organisational development. Key skills for this role include strong leadership, strategic thinking, outstanding communication, conflict resolution, and a thorough awareness of employment rules and regulations. The average salary for a Human Resources Director in the UK is around £80,000 per year.
Project Manager
Project Managers are in high demand in the UK due to their ability to drive successful project execution. They are responsible for all aspects of a project, including planning, resource management, risk assessment, and stakeholder coordination. Strong organisational and leadership skills, communication and negotiation abilities, risk management experience, and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines are essential for this role. The average salary of a Project Manager in the UK is estimated to be £50,000 annually.
Architects
Architects are responsible for designing and supervising the construction of buildings and structures. They work closely with clients, engineers, and construction teams to create functional, safe, and visually appealing designs. Key skills for architects include creativity, technical proficiency in design software and building codes, project management, problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills. The average salary for an Architect in the UK is around £40,000 per year.
Programmers and Software Developers
As the UK’s reliance on technology and digital solutions grows, Programmers and Software Developers are in high demand. They create, build, and support software applications and systems. Key skills for this role include programming language expertise, problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to work cooperatively in teams. The average salary for a Software Developer in the UK is approximately £45,000 per year.
Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers are creative professionals responsible for creating visually appealing designs for websites, advertisements, and branding materials. They collaborate with clients and teams, utilising design software and artistic skills to convey messages effectively. Key skills for graphic designers include creativity, proficiency in design software, understanding design principles, attention to detail, strong communication, time management, and teamwork. The average salary for a Graphic Designer in the UK is around £25,000 per year.
Cyber Security Specialists
In the field of digital skills, cyber security stands out as a high-profile job in the UK, characterised by numerous vacancies and attractive salaries. This crucial role supports private companies and government organisations in safeguarding sensitive public data. Salaries for cyber security professionals start at approximately £25,000.
Digital Marketing Consultant
The advancement of technology has driven a surge in demand for technical roles, including the rapidly growing profession of digital marketing consultants. This growth is largely due to the rise of eCommerce and an increased online presence. Companies aiming to stay competitive in the digital landscape require more skilled professionals. As a digital marketing consultant, your responsibilities will encompass generating leads, designing websites, creating SEO-friendly content, and more.
Health Services & Residential Care
Health service jobs are in high demand in the UK, especially for managerial roles and full-time nursing positions. If you are passionate about helping others and want to make a positive impact, consider pursuing a nursing career. You can achieve this by earning a nursing degree or an MBA with a focus on healthcare.
Physical Scientists
The oil, gas, and mining industries play crucial roles in enhancing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. However, there is a need for more skilled scientists to lead these sustainable development efforts. As a result, physical science roles are among the most in-demand jobs in the UK, which is excellent news for STEM students!
Sales Assistant
Sales assistants serve as the primary point of contact for customers. Their responsibilities include assisting customers in locating products, answering inquiries, and providing information on product functionality. While skills and experience are more crucial than formal qualifications for a sales assistant role, the ability to stay calm under pressure, think quickly, possess computer literacy, and have excellent communication skills are essential for success in this position.
Industry Specific Roles & Demanding Jobs In The UK 2024
Let’s explore the unique and challenging roles within various industries that require specialised skills and expertise given below:
IT Sector
The information technology industry comprises software and hardware companies, as well as Internet and related service providers. According to the UK’s Digital Economy Council, the number of posted tech jobs is 42% higher than it was before the pandemic, and digital and IT-related jobs represent 13% of all job listings.
Key roles in demand include:
- Software and Hardware Specialists: IT professionals are hired to replace and update computer software and hardware.
- Network Engineers: Engineers who work on mobile networks, intranets, and internet installation are in great demand due to the rise in remote working.
- Computer Support Experts: Computer assistance, particularly help desk support roles, is one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry.
- App Developers: As businesses increasingly use apps to enhance customer service, the app development industry is booming.
Home and Furnishing Industry
Several factors contribute to the expansion of the home furnishings industry. With more people working from home, sales of homeware and soft furnishings have soared. Home office workers have invested in new office equipment such as desks, shelves, lighting, and storage solutions. Due to high home costs, more people are engaging in home repair and DIY projects. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), online sales of home improvement and gardening products have increased by over 50%.
Key roles in demand include:
- Home Office Equipment Suppliers: Meeting the increased demand for home office setups.
- Interior Designers: Catering to the growing interest in home interiors and design.
- DIY and Home Repair Experts: Supporting the rise in DIY projects and home repairs.
Healthcare
Healthcare professionals are essential for diagnosing, treating, and advising patients. The healthcare sector includes medical workers such as physicians, nurses, dentists, as well as services in mental health, social care, and the pharmaceutical industry.
According to the Health Foundation, the health industry will require:
- 488,000 more healthcare employees by 2030, representing a 40% increase.
- 627,000 additional social care employees to meet the demands of an ageing population.
Key roles in demand include:
- Health and Social Care Specialists: Needed in hospitals, medical centres, clinics, and nursing homes.
- Mental Health Professionals: Increasingly important as mental health awareness grows.
- Pharmaceutical Experts: To support the development and distribution of medicines.
In 2024, IBISWorld, a comprehensive database for industry-market research, revealed data regarding the leading employment sectors in the UK. This data showcases the top ten industries based on workforce size. Refer to the table below:
| Top 10 industries by employment in the UK | |
| Industry | Employment number |
| UK Supermarkets | 1,168,228 |
| UK Charities | 906,444 |
| UK Hospitals | 888,919 |
| Temporary-Employment Placement Agencies | 726,222 |
| General Secondary Education | 698,029 |
| Business Process Outsourcing Services | 678,051 |
| Construction Contractors | 637,778 |
| Direct Selling & Marketing | 600,637 |
| Full-Service Restaurants | 532,514 |
| UK Universities | 479,579 |
Fastest Growing In Demand Jobs In The UK 2024
Recent data from a global job site Indeed indicates that the demand for IT engineers in the UK has surged at a faster rate than any other profession. Additionally, CNBC has compiled a list of rapidly expanding job roles along with their average salaries and increased demand. Therefore, if you are considering studying in the UK as an international student, you may find enhanced job prospects in these sought-after fields.
| Jobs | Average Salary (in £) Per Year | Increase in Demand |
| Conveyancing Assistant | 19,746 | 25.8% |
| Assistant Principal | 51,541 | 29.5% |
| Recruiting Assistant | 22,352 | 28.5% |
| Salon Assistant | 16,029 | 33.6% |
| Mobile Developer | 34,971 | 28.2% |
| IT Engineer | 28,212 | 33.7% |
| CNC Machinist | 27,881 | 31.2% |
| Product Designer | 38,203 | 31.8% |
| Designer | 32,638 | 26.3% |
Skills And Qualifications Required For In-demand Jobs In The UK
- Customer Service: Good customer service abilities are always in demand, but they are especially so right now. Companies of all sizes, from retail to information technology, are searching for people who are patient and good communicators.
- Project Management: Good project managers are required in all industries in the UK to guarantee that businesses run effectively and that projects are finished on time and within budget.
- Finance and Accounting: Financial abilities are in high demand throughout the United Kingdom. Many of these professions are likely to be available if you have accounting or analyst training and experience with bookkeeping and payroll. T
- Sales: Many companies are looking for bright, experienced, and hardworking salespeople. You’ll discover plenty of opportunities if you’re a superb communicator and don’t mind emphasising the benefits of a product or service to sell it to others.
- Software and Computing: There is a growing demand for software development talents in the United Kingdom. You have many work opportunities if you have comprehensive knowledge of many programming languages, are detail-oriented, and are adept at meeting deadlines.
5 Helpful Tips For Acquiring In-Demand Skills
Upskilling is crucial if you want to beat the competition in the job market. You must be multi-talented in your field and get ready for circumstances like recession, or considering other opportunities. Given below are some tips on how you can upskill:
- To advance your skill set, consider taking online courses, learning at your current job, getting an internship, creating a self-study program, and staying ahead of the curve. Online courses are available at affordable prices, while courses like Udemy and Stanford offer free options.
- Reach out to colleagues or supervisors who use the skills you want to acquire and who can offer tips and hands-on training.
- Internships are also available for those willing to learn and contribute to a company’s business.
- Creating a self-study programme allows you to access expert-level knowledge and attend conferences or events related to your desired skills.
- Staying ahead of the curve and focusing on areas of interest can help you stay motivated and relevant to changing employer demands. With dedication and self-discipline, you can gain key skills that will help you stand out to employers.
High Demand Jobs In The Next 10 Years UK
According to multiple reports, including the UK government’s shortage occupation list and Nesta’s analysis of the future job market, there are several occupations experiencing high demand in the UK. Among the most sought-after jobs in the country are:
| Jobs | Average Salary (in £) Per Year |
| Health services managers | 104,280 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 27,080 |
| Wind turbine service technicians | 56,230 |
| Statisticians | 92,270 |
| Solar photovoltaic installers | 46,470 |
| Information security analysts | 103,590 |
| Nurse practitioners | 111,680 |
| Physician assistants | 115,390 |
| Data scientists | 98,230 |
| Physical therapist assistants | 59,770 |
Best Companies To Work In The UK – 2024
Because the services industry employs the bulk of the population in the UK (more than 80.2%), it is simple to see why there is a shortage of qualified professionals. These ten firms offer the highest-paying positions in the United Kingdom. The top ten businesses in the United Kingdom that recruit a large number of competent graduates each year are listed below.
- Google – Technology Company
- ServiceNow – Software Company
- Ocado Technology
- Bain & Company – Management Consultancy
- Arup – Design Company
- Mastercard – Financial Services Company
- Version 1 – IT Service Management Company
- Boston Consulting Group – Management Consultancy
- Equinix – Internet Services Company
- Salesforce – Software Company
15 Highest Paying In Demand Jobs In The UK – 2023
As per the analysis of Grab Jobs and based on recent trends, several jobs are speculated to be in high demand in the future. These jobs include:
- Chief Executives and Senior Officials – £79,835
- Information Technology Directors – £73,571
- Specialist Medical Practitioners – £68,614
- Marketing, Sales and Advertising Directors – £77,695
- Headteachers and Principals – £66,686
- Public Relations and Communications Directors – £66,510
- Health Services and Public Health Managers and Directors – £50,789
- IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers – £50,396
- Financial Managers and Directors – £64,193
- Functional Managers and Directors – £61,139
- Aircraft Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers – £62,778
- Senior Police Officers – £59,141
- Train and Tram Drivers – £58,868
- Barristers and Judges – £53,110
- Rail Transport Operatives – £50,561
Demanding Jobs in UK: Eligibility for Work Visa
To work in the UK, obtaining the appropriate visa is essential. Work visas are generally categorised into long-term and short-term visas.
Long-Term Visa:
This visa category is intended for professional roles that typically necessitate an extended stay in the UK. Examples of long-term work visas include skilled worker visas, health and care worker visas, and intra-company visas.
Short-Term Visa:
Short-term visas are designed for temporary employment or any work requiring a brief stay in the UK. Examples of short-term work visas include charity worker visas, creative worker visas, and seasonal worker visas. Investors and business entrepreneurs are subject to a separate set of visas, such as the innovator visa and start-up visa.
Every employment necessitates a certain level of knowledge, and the United Kingdom is home to multiple universities that offer a wide selection of degree programs in each of these fields to overseas students. Hope the blog “Most Demanding Jobs In UK” was helpful enough to solve all your queries.
FAQs
Q1. What jobs are in high demand in the UK?
Ans: Cyber Security Specialists, Health Services and Residential Care, Architects, Graphic Designers, and Project Managers are some of the in high demand in the UK.
Q2. Which job is highly paid in the UK?
Ans: Chief executive and senior-level roles are perhaps unsurprisingly the highest-paid jobs in the UK.
Q3. What is the easiest job to get in the UK?
Ans: The Job of FM Customer Co-Ordinator, SEN Behavioural Support Assistant., Customer Service Coordinator, Sports Teacher, and Delivery Driver can be considered the easiest job to get in the UK.
Q4. Where in the UK has the most job opportunities?
Ans: Milton Keynes, Oxford, York, St Albans, and Norwich are the top five cities for job opportunities, with high average salaries, good business density, and strong employment rate growth in the UK.
Q5. What job pays the lowest in the UK?
Ans: Cleaners and domestics – £19,792, Playworkers – £20,033, Collector salespersons and credit agents – £20,038, Bar and catering supervisors – £20,245 and Cooks – £20,253 are some of the jobs in the UK.
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