The UK construction sector needs an additional 250,000+ workers by 2028 (CITB). But demand is not spread evenly — some trades face acute supply pressure while others are better balanced. This guide ranks the roles with the greatest supply shortfall, with earnings benchmarks and reasons for the shortage explained.
Whether you are a contractor planning a programme or a worker considering your options, understanding where demand is concentrated helps you make better workforce decisions.
Electrician (JIB/ECS Qualified)
Very High DemandWhy they're in demand: Net zero retrofit, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and new build volume have created simultaneous demand spikes. JIB/ECS Gold Card electricians are booked weeks ahead on active programmes.
Outlook: Sustained demand through at least 2030 driven by decarbonisation legislation.
View Hiring PagePlumber / Heating Engineer
Very High DemandWhy they're in demand: Heat pump installations, gas work, and bathroom fit-out across new build and retrofit. Gas Safe registered engineers are a consistent bottleneck on residential programmes.
Outlook: Heat pump demand will significantly increase requirements for suitably qualified plumbers through 2030.
View Hiring PageSite Manager (SMSTS Qualified)
Very High DemandWhy they're in demand: Every CDM-notifiable project requires at least one SMSTS-qualified site manager. Supply of experienced site managers has not grown at the rate the market needs — especially in residential and commercial sectors.
Outlook: Consistent shortage. Leadership roles in construction remain undervalued for entry candidates but well-compensated at experience level.
View Hiring PageGroundworker
High DemandWhy they're in demand: Every construction project starts with groundworks — making groundworker availability a critical path resource on every programme. Experienced groundworkers with CPCS plant competences are particularly sought after.
Outlook: Infrastructure investment and house building targets keep groundworker demand sustained across all UK regions.
View Hiring PageQuantity Surveyor
High DemandWhy they're in demand: Mid-level QS professionals (3–8 years experience) represent the most competitive tier — in high demand from both main contractors and specialist subcontractors. Chartered QS (MRICS) salaries continue to climb.
Outlook: Strong long-term demand as project complexity, procurement scrutiny, and cost management requirements increase.
View Hiring PageBricklayer
High DemandWhy they're in demand: Housebuilding targets and the reintroduction of traditional masonry on commercial and mixed-use schemes has kept bricklayer demand elevated. The average bricklayer age is rising — supply side constraint is structural.
Outlook: Shortage will deepen as experienced bricklayers retire without adequate replacement.
View Hiring PageM&E Engineer / Building Services Engineer
High DemandWhy they're in demand: Building services complexity on commercial, healthcare, and data centre projects has increased significantly. MEP coordination, net zero targets, and BREEAM requirements all drive demand for qualified M&E engineers.
Outlook: Demand will increase as sustainability requirements tighten and building complexity grows.
View Hiring PagePlant Operator (CPCS Certified)
Medium-High DemandWhy they're in demand: CPCS plant operators for 360° excavators, dumpers, and telehandlers are required on virtually all civils and groundworks programmes. Short-notice plant operator availability is a regular programme risk.
Outlook: Infrastructure investment maintains sustained demand. Automation may affect certain categories long term.
View Hiring PageCarpenter / Joiner
Medium-High DemandWhy they're in demand: First fix, second fix, and fit-out carpenters are needed sequentially on every new build programme. Multi-skilled carpenters who can cover both first and second fix are particularly valued.
Outlook: Consistent demand across residential and commercial sectors.
View Hiring PageScaffolder (CISRS Part 2 / Advanced)
Medium-High DemandWhy they're in demand: The CISRS licensing pathway is slow — creating a bottleneck of Part 2 and Advanced scaffolders relative to site demand. Complex scaffold requirements (suspended, birdcage, system scaffold) require experienced operatives who cannot be substituted.
Outlook: Demand will remain strong as safety requirements around working at height are maintained.
View Hiring PageIn One of These Trades? Register Now.
If you work in any of the trades above, construction employers and contractors are actively looking for workers like you. Register with Phoenix Gray Recruitment to access live job opportunities across the UK — including ongoing contracts, day work, and permanent roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What construction jobs are most in demand in the UK?
In 2026, the construction jobs with the greatest demand relative to supply include electricians, plumbers and heating engineers, bricklayers, groundworkers, site managers, quantity surveyors, and M&E engineers. Net zero retrofit programmes have accelerated demand for electricians and heating engineers in particular.
What is the highest paying construction job in the UK?
Senior construction professionals command the highest earnings: Project Directors and Programme Managers can earn £100,000–£150,000+. At contractor level, Senior Quantity Surveyors and Commercial Managers typically earn £60,000–£90,000. M&E engineers and contracts managers are also among the highest earners in the sector.
Are construction jobs in demand long term?
Yes — long-term UK construction demand is supported by house building targets, net zero retrofit programmes, infrastructure investment, and healthcare and education capital programmes. The sector needs 250,000+ additional workers by 2028 according to CITB forecasts.
Is it a good time to work in construction in the UK?
Yes — the labour shortage means experienced, qualified construction workers are in a strong negotiating position for both day rates and salaries. Skilled trades in particular command significantly higher earnings than a decade ago, with continued upward pressure on rates expected.