The skilled trades are an often-overlooked but incredibly rewarding sector of the job market. In the UK, skilled trades offer not only job security and satisfaction but also impressive earning potential. If you're considering a career change or exploring new career paths, this guide highlights some of the top-paying skilled trades in the UK, offering insight into the opportunities and benefits of these professions.
- Gas Engineer (Domestic)
Average Salary: £35,000 per year
Gas Engineers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing gas appliances and systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. This includes working on boilers, central heating systems, and other gas-powered equipment. Given the importance of safety and efficiency in gas systems, skilled Gas Engineers are always in high demand.
Key Benefits:
High earning potential due to specialised skills Consistent demand for services, particularly in colder months Opportunities for self-employment or contracting Potential for further specialisation, such as working with renewable energy sources- Electrician
Average Salary: £32,315 per year
Electricians are essential for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. With increasing demand for renewable energy solutions and smart home technologies, the role of electricians is becoming even more critical.
Key Benefits:
High demand for services Opportunities for self-employment Specialisations in renewable energy can lead to higher earnings- Plumber
Average Salary: £31,819 per year
Plumbers are responsible for installing and maintaining systems used for water, sewage, and drainage. Their work is vital for ensuring the comfort and safety of homes and businesses.
Key Benefits:
Consistent demand for services Potential for specialisation in high-demand areas such as green plumbing Opportunities to start your own business- HVAC Technician
Average Salary: £30,000 per year
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians install and maintain climate control systems in buildings. As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important, the demand for skilled HVAC technicians is growing.
Key Benefits:
High demand for energy-efficient systems Opportunities for specialisation in green technologies Varied work environments- Smart Metering Engineer
Average Salary: £30,000 per year
Smart Metering Engineers specialise in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting smart meters for gas and electricity. These professionals play a crucial role in the UK's push towards more efficient energy usage and smart technology integration in homes and businesses.
Key Benefits:
High demand due to nationwide smart meter rollout initiatives Opportunities to work with cutting-edge technology Contributions to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability Potential for career advancement in the growing field of smart technologies- Mechanic
Average Salary: £29,000 per year
Mechanics repair and maintain vehicles, from cars to trucks to industrial machinery. With the rise of electric vehicles, mechanics with specialised training are increasingly sought after.
Key Benefits:
Steady demand for vehicle maintenance and repair Opportunities to specialise in electric and hybrid vehicles Potential for career advancement with additional certifications- Carpenter
Average Salary: £28,390 per year
Carpenters work with wood to construct, install, and repair building frameworks and structures. From residential renovations to large-scale construction projects, skilled carpenters are always in demand.
Key Benefits:
Variety of work environments High demand in the construction industry Opportunities for creative and custom projectsConclusion
The skilled trades offer a pathway to lucrative and fulfilling careers in the UK. These professions not only provide substantial earning potential but also the opportunity to work in dynamic and varied environments. Whether you're a recent school leaver or considering a career change, exploring the skilled trades can open doors to a stable and prosperous future. Investing in training and certification in these high-demand areas can set you on a path to success and financial stability.
At SERT, we offer comprehensive training programmes in gas, electrical and smart metering, as well as upskilling courses, if you are looking to expand your portfolio as a trades worker. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your career goals in the skilled trades.