In the world of work, staying ahead of the curve is essential. This is true whether you’re a recent graduate searching for your first job or a professional with a long career seeking a change.
As the global landscape continues to shift, so do the demands of the workforce, meaning understanding the current trends and in-demand careers should be a top priority for job seekers in the UK.
In this guide, we delve into the most in-demand jobs in the UK. Using current labour statistics, we shed light on the industries and professions, like becoming a driving instructor, that are not only thriving in the job market today but are also well poised for growth in the foreseeable future.
Careers in demand in the UK
From traditional roles that have evolved with the times to new and exciting fields that have sprung up in this constantly changing business landscape, these are some of the exciting high-demand job opportunities that await you:
1. Software developers and programmers
Becoming a software developer (sometimes referred to as a software engineer) is a wise choice, as it’s currently one of the most in-demand jobs in the UK.
A software developer’s primary day-to-day responsibilities include creating, testing, and maintaining software applications. People in this field play a critical role in the tech industry and are involved in various stages of software development, from coding to debugging and updating.
While your GCSEs can qualify you to enter the field, employers tend to favour candidates with formal higher education, certifications in web development, or qualifications in specific programming languages.
Software developer-related degrees: Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Software Design
Average salary: £46,000 (Glassdoor)
2. Cybersecurity specialists
As a cyber security specialist or analyst, you’d be protecting organisations from cyber threats by implementing security measures, monitoring networks for vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents.
Cyber security specialists and information security analysts are vital in helping private companies and UK government organisations keep people’s information safe as cyber terrorism becomes an ever-greater issue.
Cyber security specialists-related degrees: Information Systems, Cyber Security, Cybernetics
Average salary: £63,000 (Glassdoor)
3. Driving instructors
Learning to drive is a rite of passage for many people, and for some, it’s an essential skill that opens doors to their dream job or enables them to live independently. With a never-ending stream of learner drivers seeking lessons, driving instructors are always in high demand.
Driving instructors provide an extremely valuable service by teaching safe driving skills essential for road safety. As a driving instructor, you will teach people how to operate vehicles safely and pass their driving tests.
You’ll provide both practical lessons on the road and theoretical instruction in traffic laws and road safety. This role requires specialised driving instructor training, but with the right driving school, you’ll be supported every step of the way.
Driving instructor-related requirements: Full UK driving licence (3+ years), have 6 points or less on your licence, pass an eyesight test and DBS check, register as a Potential Driving Instructor (PDI) and obtain a Personal Reference Number (PRN).
Average salary: Bill Plant driving instructors earn £33 an hour on average. Check out our full guide for more information on the average driving instructor salary.
4. Nurses
With the UK’s health system facing unprecedented funding challenges, full-time nursing jobs are currently in high demand. If you love the idea of making a positive difference in patients’ lives, this could be the career for you.
Nurses and nurse practitioners provide essential healthcare services in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They care for patients, administer medications, and assist doctors in diagnosing and treating medical conditions.
If you’d prefer a less ‘hands-on’ healthcare role, Health Services Managers work behind the scenes to plan, direct, and coordinate the business activities of healthcare providers. There is an ever-increasing deficit of applicants for administrative NHS roles, meaning it’s an in-demand career for anyone with the right skills and experience.
Nursing-related degrees: Nursing, Healthcare, Public Health
Average salary: £28,000 for a Band 5 nurse (nurses.co.uk)
5. Financial managers
Financial managers are in high demand due to their critical role in managing a company’s finances.
In an ever-evolving financial landscape, businesses rely on these professionals to ensure financial stability, compliance with regulations, and efficient resource allocation.
Financial managers are responsible for overseeing an organisation’s financial health. If you choose to work in this field, you’ll create financial reports, develop strategies to meet financial goals and make decisions regarding investments, budgets, and financial planning.
You’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring a company’s financial stability and growth. You’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree to go down this route, possibly even a Master’s degree.
Financial manager-related degrees: Business, Economics, Finance
Average salary: £62,000 (Glassdoor)
6. Market research analysts
The demand for data-driven insights is rising as the business landscape and job market become more competitive.
Market research analysts are in high demand because businesses need to understand consumer preferences, market trends, and competitive landscapes to make informed decisions.
As a market research analyst, you’d collect and analyse data to provide insights into market trends, consumer behaviour, and competitive landscapes. You’d use various research methods, including surveys and data analysis software, to help businesses develop effective marketing and business strategies.
Market research analyst-related degrees: Marketing, Business, Psychology
Average salary: £47,000 (Glassdoor)
Secure your new high-demand job with Bill Plant Driving School
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a driving instructor, consider Bill Plant Driving School. We now employ hundreds of dedicated instructors nationwide.
But don’t just take our word for it; we’ve also been voted the UK’s best provider of driving lessons and driving instructor training.
We provide a wide range of nationwide driving instructor training courses so you can learn to teach in a way that suits you. Some of our training courses even include accommodation, so you don’t need to worry about finding a place to stay after a long day behind the wheel.
Bill Plant Driving School is a well-respected, award-winning company dedicated to ensuring your training covers everything you need to excel. Once you receive your qualification, you could become a franchisee so you can join the team and start earning.
So what are you waiting for? Get in touch today to take the first step towards an exciting and fulfilling professional life with one of the most high-demand jobs in the UK.
FAQs
What is the highest in-demand job right now?
Currently, programmers and software developers are considered high-demand jobs in the UK and beyond. There’s a digital skills shortage, so anyone with relevant IT and software skills will be in high demand. More in-demand jobs tend to have several benefits, including more competitive salaries, increased opportunities for advancement, and, in some instances, even greater job security.
What jobs will be in low demand?
Some jobs that are currently in low demand and may even become obsolete are:
- Travel agents
- Supermarket cashiers
- Bank tellers at local branches
- Printing press operators
- Taxi dispatchers
- Telemarketers
