The job market is an ever-evolving animal, and keeping on top of these developing trends can give your career search a real shot in the arm.
To give yourself the best chance in 2025, it’s crucial to know which jobs will be in high demand in the UK before you start building or updating your CV.
The UK employment rate for people aged 16–64 was estimated at 75.2% in March–May 2025, according to the ONS. That’s slightly higher than a year ago, showing that while the labour market remains competitive, opportunities still exist in high-demand sectors.
According to recent data from the UK government, over 2.5 million workers (7.8%) are in critical demand occupations, with an additional 12.6 million workers (38.5%) in elevated demand occupations, based on the calendar year 2024.
By understanding the trends surrounding the most in-demand jobs in the UK in 2025, you can make sure that your skills align with the most sought-after roles, making your CV more attractive to employers.
To help you get your preparation right, this article looks at the sort of roles employers will be eager to fill during 2025. We’ll also have a look at a handful of careers you should avoid, given their unpredictability and gradual obsolescence.
What jobs are in demand in the UK in 2025?
A good number of careers in demand in the UK in 2025 require creative thinkers. As technology improves and more and more bureaucratic and manual tasks are automated or replaced with algorithms, this is about to become even more important.
However, there are still many skilled, more hands-on professions that look to go from strength to strength over the coming 12 months. The list below provides an idea of which jobs in which sectors employers will be looking for in 2025 and beyond.
One of these UK jobs in demand might suit your profile. If you then need help with your job application, CVWhizz’s AI CV builder can help you present your experience and skills in an effective and eye-catching document.
1. Healthcare practitioners and social workers
If you keep up with the news, you might be aware that this sector is a leader in terms of what careers are in demand in the UK.
The healthcare profession is a lucrative one, and demand is only set to increase in 2025 and beyond. The sector is rapidly growing, driven by an aging population and rising demand for services. In NHS England, the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) staff rose by 34.5%, reaching 1,308,825 FTE in 2023. NHS Scotland and NHS Wales also saw increases of 18.0% and 31.8%, respectively.
This growth reflects the crucial need for healthcare practitioners and social workers across the UK. These professionals are essential in delivering care, supporting mental health, and improving public well-being. As the sector expands, more opportunities are emerging for those entering these fields.
With increasing demands, healthcare practitioners and social workers will continue to shape the future of the UK’s health and social care systems. Their expertise will be vital in addressing evolving challenges in patient care and community support.
2. Programmers and software developers
Programmers and software developers are in high demand as technology continues to drive innovation across industries. In the UK, the average salary for a software developer is £54,413, with salaries ranging from £48,304 at the low end to £64,562 at the high end.
The role of a programmer involves creating and maintaining programs, applications, and scripts that use computer code to perform specific tasks. Programming languages are important, and a variety of different industries and roles rely on different ones (e.g., C++ or Python).
Some common types of programming include:
- Database management systems (DBMS) – storing data on servers so it can be accessed by multiple users at once.
- Web application development – designing websites using HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, etc.
- Mobile app development – creating apps for smartphones
- Desktop application development – creating programs for computers
3. Teacher and special education needs (SEN) teaching assistant
Teaching is very much an evergreen profession. The need to train the future workforce is something that’s not going away soon, and as a result, schools and colleges all over the country are looking for qualified teachers.
The demand for Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching assistants is equally high in the UK. New data shows the number of pupils with special educational needs (SEN) increased to 1.7 million in schools in 2024, representing 18.4% of all pupils, up from previous years.
SEN professionals assist in conducting lessons, preparing and modifying materials, offering targeted support to students, and communicating well with parents and caregivers. The job requires a high level of empathy and emotional intelligence.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) specialist
If you’re wondering which job is booming in the UK, the answer is quite possibly artificial intelligence-related fields.
According to a 2023 study by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, 71% of organizations expect to use AI in the future, but only 25% have access to the AI skills they need.
The demand for these professionals is only expected to grow as AI skills earn workers over 21% on average.
If you want to embark on this career, you’ll need to be able to understand complex algorithms and data analysis techniques. You also need to have excellent teamwork skills so that you can explain your findings clearly.
It’s a very exciting career in demand for anyone who has an interest in technology and wants to work with some of the most advanced software available.
5. Physical therapists
More and more people across Britain are taking the time to get healthy, either at the gym or by taking up intensive cycling or long-distance running training.
This upswing of active-minded individuals is great news for anyone qualified to provide muscular therapy, training plans, or help with nutrition. Physical therapists and personal trainers are undoubtedly in demand in the UK in 2025.
In addition, with the increasing popularity of sports and fitness-focused lifestyles, those with specialized knowledge in rehabilitation and injury management are likely to see strong demand for their expertise.
6. Engineers
Engineering is another skilled profession among the most wanted jobs in the UK. A lot of mechanical and geoscience engineering roles are high up on the shortage occupation list.
The engineering sector shows a Net Employment Outlook of +24%. Yet, hiring is set to slow compared to recent quarters due to an ongoing talent crunch, with 81% of companies finding it hard to secure suitable applicants.
As the UK currently can’t get enough of some of these disciplines, this could be a good area to target your job search. As demand for skilled workers persists, companies may also need to adjust their hiring strategies, focusing more on people skills alongside technical expertise, especially with the increase in hybrid work arrangements.
Some fields, like clean energy and building projects, will grow and hire more people. These areas will give chances to engineers who have special skills and know-how.
7. Environmental officer
Environmental officers are increasingly in demand in the UK as sustainability efforts continue to grow across industries. The number of green job adverts in the UK increased by 9.2% in 2024, reaching a total of 272,178 job listings, with further growth expected.
With the rising focus on climate action and compliance regulations, this field presents strong opportunities for job seekers, particularly those with experience in environmental auditing and risk management.
Environmental roles, particularly in fields like waste management, environmental health, and climate change, are also high on the shortage occupation list.
As businesses move towards greener practices, the demand for skilled professionals will only increase, providing a range of career paths.
8. Energy/carbon manager
Energy/carbon managers are crucial in strategising and managing energy consumption within organizations, as well as creating new policies when necessary. They adopt a comprehensive strategy for managing energy and carbon emissions, frequently integrating aspects of waste, utility management, and sustainable development.
Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, as well as a willingness to constantly update their knowledge and skills, are essential in this career.
This relatively new role came in at number 5 in the Hays Top Jobs 2024 report and should continue to grow as the world tries to shift toward reducing carbon usage.
9. Aircraft mechanic
Aircraft mechanics play a critical role in ensuring the safety and reliability of the global aviation ecosystem. As air travel recovers to pre-pandemic levels, the demand for skilled technicians is rising rapidly.
The industry will need 716,000 new maintenance technicians over the next 20 years to support the expanding global fleet.
Despite the growth, the aviation sector faces challenges like insufficient training capacity and a significant personnel shortage.
Aircraft mechanics require strong technical skills and the ability to adapt to evolving technologies. With high demand for aviation personnel, this profession offers significant career opportunities in the years ahead.
10. Creatives
Now is a great time to be a member of the creative workforce. Businesses highly seek experienced and talented marketers, designers, and online writers.
According to the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, creative sector employment is expected to rise through 2025, driven by increased investment and government support.
This includes £15bn in tax reliefs and funding for creative sectors, which will further boost salaries and job opportunities.
By April 2025, the creative industries can expect continued growth, particularly in film, VFX, and museum sectors, alongside an expansion of career programmes for young talent.
11. Construction and building trades occupations
The construction and building trades sector in the UK is set to experience substantial growth, with over 250,000 additional workers required by 2028 to meet rising demand.
This growth will primarily stem from key areas like private housing, infrastructure, and repair and maintenance. These areas are also among the most in-demand trades in the UK, highlighting the need for skilled workers across various construction sectors.
To meet these workforce needs, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has invested £267m into initiatives focused on recruitment and retention. The construction sector’s future looks promising, driven by the need for skilled workers and the rise of new technologies and sustainability goals.
Those entering the field will find numerous career opportunities, particularly in specialized areas like green building practices and net-zero construction. With continued investment in workforce development, the construction industry remains a key player in the UK economy.
12. Pharmacists
The demand for pharmacists in the UK continues to rise, with the profession listed among the eligible occupations for the Skilled Worker Visa. This indicates a significant shortage of qualified pharmacists, particularly as healthcare needs grow and the population ages.
To address these shortages, the UK healthcare system is actively working to attract skilled professionals from abroad. Currently, pharmacy is considered one of the high-demand jobs in the UK for foreigners.
The UK is particularly in need of pharmacists with specialized knowledge in areas like clinical pharmacy and community pharmacy, creating opportunities for both local and international talent.
With a proactive approach to recruitment and support for foreign professionals, pharmacy remains a promising career path in the UK, offering numerous opportunities for those looking to contribute to the country’s healthcare system.
Skills UK employers look for
While specific skills or experience may be crucial for a job, according to the Hays Top Jobs Report 2025, 77% of employers say they would hire professionals who do not have all the skills required and train them.
As a matter of fact, “77% of UK employees agree that as the world of work is changing so quickly, it is more important today to continually learn new transferable skills than it was 20 years ago”.
Communication, ability to learn and adapt, and problem-solving are amongst the soft skills that UK employers most often look for.
A few UK jobs that are on their way out in 2025
As time passes, professions wane. There are several declining trades in the UK at present. As a result, their prospects don’t look great.
Technology is changing the job landscape all the time, and this has already led to big changes. Yet, there is more to come.
Roles that are unstable, increasingly obsolete or decreasing in numbers should be avoided to keep your CV fresh and future-proof.
It’s important to know which jobs are in demand in the UK, but also those that are not!
Largely due to the rise in automation and AI enhancement in these areas, some jobs to avoid during 2025 include the following:
- Bank Teller
- Bookkeeper
- Data Entry Clerk
- Executive Assistant
- Photo developer
- Photographer
- Print Journalist
- Real Estate Agent
- Recruiter
- Telemarketer
- Travel Agent
No matter what career you’re targeting, a well-maintained CV is a critical component for success in snagging one of the most in-demand jobs in 2025.
Focusing on the UK’s most desirable careers in 2025 will help you target roles with strong prospects.
Find out how to keep it looking good with our writing guides and professional examples. Alternatively, try out our quick and easy online CV tool to give your document a comprehensive tune-up.
FAQs About In-Demand Jobs in the UK
According to government and labour market data, healthcare roles (nurses, social workers, pharmacists), programmers and software developers, engineers, AI specialists, and teaching assistants are among the UK’s most in-demand jobs in 2025.
Green energy and environmental officers are also rising quickly on the shortage occupation list. Despite overall vacancies falling to 727,000 in April–June 2025 (ONS), demand remains concentrated in these shortage sectors.
The shortage occupation list currently includes healthcare practitioners (nurses, senior care workers, social workers), engineers, and some construction roles.
Being on the list means employers can more easily recruit internationally, and candidates may qualify for visa sponsorship. You can check the full list on the official UK Government website.
Yes. Roles such as construction trades, SEN teaching assistants, care workers, and some green energy jobs often prioritise practical skills and vocational training over university degrees.
Apprenticeships and on-the-job training routes remain strong entry points, especially as the UK employment rate has risen to 75.2% (ONS) and employers widen their search to fill urgent shortages.
Healthcare professionals such as nurses and pharmacists, and engineers are in particularly high demand and eligible for Skilled Worker visas.
Pharmacy, for example, is listed as a shortage occupation, making it one of the best pathways for overseas applicants. With the unemployment rate rising to 4.7% (ONS), UK employers are under pressure to attract overseas talent to close skills gaps in these sectors.
Roles heavily affected by automation or online services are shrinking.
Professions such as bank tellers, telemarketers, data entry clerks, and traditional print journalists are all declining.
If you are a candidate in one of these fields, you may need to reskill towards growth sectors such as technology, healthcare, or sustainability.
Alongside technical qualifications, employers are targeting transferable skills like communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork.
According to the Hays Salary & Recruiting Trends 2025 guide, 77% of UK employers say they are willing to hire candidates without all the required skills if they demonstrate strong transferable abilities (Hays).
With vacancies falling for 36 consecutive quarters (ONS), soft skills are increasingly important to stand out in a tighter labour market.
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