The UK's In Demand Jobs 2025

The UK's job market is ever-evolving, so it is important to keep on top of developing trends and ensure your skills align with the most sought-after roles to offer yourself the best chance of success.So take a look at what jobs are most in demand in the UK in 2025?

1. Healthcare practitioners and social workers

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. 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. 

2. Programmers and software developers

Programmers and software developers are in high demand as technology continues to drive innovation across industrie with the average salary for a software developer at £54,413. 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 vital, 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 also high. 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.

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) specialist

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. 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 if you have 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. This upswing is great news for anyone qualified to provide muscular therapy, training plans, or help with nutrition. Physical therapists and personal trainers are in demand and, 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

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%, although 81% of companies are finding it hard to find suitable applicants. 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, with further growth expected. With the rising focus on climate action and compliance regulations, this field presents strong opportunities, particularly those with experience in environmental auditing and risk management. Environmental roles, like waste management, environmental health, and climate change, are also high on the shortage occupation list. 

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. Great interpersonal and communication skills, as well as being willing to update their knowledge and skills constantly, are essential in this career. This role 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. Aircraft mechanics require strong technical skills and the ability to adapt to evolving technologies. 

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.  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. 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. 

12. Pharmacists

The demand for pharmacists in the UK continues to rise, particularly as healthcare needs grow and the population ages. 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. 

The skills UK employers are looking for.

While specific skills or experience may be crucial for a job, many employers say they would hire professionals who do not have all the skills required and train them. 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. 

Source: https://www.cvwhizz.co.uk/