- Administration.
- Animal care.
- Beauty and wellbeing.
- Business and finance.
- Computing, technology and digital.
- Construction and trades.
- Creative and media.
- Delivery and storage.
4 Types of Jobs: Thinkers, Builders, Improvers, and Producers
- Thinkers produce an idea.
- Builders convert the idea into reality.
- Improvers make it better.
- Producers do the work in a repeatable manner to deliver goods and services to customers.
The most common jobs in the UK
The following are some of the most common jobs in the UK:
1. Teacher
National average salary:£32,939 per yearPrimary duties: A teacher is a professional who instructs students in various subjects and helps them gain knowledge and skills. They prepare lesson plans, develop educational materials and deliver instruction in a classroom setting. Teachers also assess student progress, provide feedback and create opportunities for them to apply what they’ve learnt.Find teacher jobs
2. Administrator
National average salary:£21,682 per yearPrimary duties: An administrator is responsible for managing and coordinating the administrative functions of an organisation. They oversee office operations, such as record keeping, document management and scheduling. Administrators also handle budgets, monitor expenditures and ensure compliance with organisational policies and procedures. Their objective is to create a well-organised, efficient work environment that supports the organisation’s goals.Find administrator jobs
3. Graphic designer
National average salary:£26,621 per yearPrimary duties: A graphic designer is a professional who creates visual concepts and designs using computer software or manually. They develop designs for a range of applications, such as websites, logos, packaging and advertising. Graphic designers work closely with clients to understand their design needs and develop concepts that meet their requirements. Their aim is to create designs that are visually appealing, are effective and communicate a message or relevant information about a brand.Find graphic designer jobs
4. Account manager
National average salary:£32,204 per yearPrimary duties: An account manager is responsible for maintaining relationships with clients and ensuring a company meets its customers’ needs. They serve as the primary liaison between the organisation and the client, handling enquiries, resolving issues and providing support as needed. Account managers also work to identify opportunities to expand the organisation’s business with existing clients and may develop strategies to acquire new customers. Their objective is to build strong, lasting relationships with clients that benefit both the organisation and the customer.Find account management jobsRelated:What is account management? (And how to be successful at it)
5. Delivery driver
National average salary:£25,609 per yearPrimary duties: A delivery driver transports goods from one location to another. They load their vehicles with packages, drive to the designated locations, and unload the packages for delivery. Delivery drivers might also collect payments and obtain signatures from customers to acknowledge the receipt of the products. Their goal is to ensure the safe, efficient and timely delivery of the packages in their care.Find delivery driver jobsRelated:What are delivery driver duties? (Skills and requirements)
6. Manager
National average salary:£33,371 per yearPrimary duties: A manager oversees the work of a group of employees to make sure they meet organisational objectives. They plan and delegate tasks, monitor progress and provide feedback and support to their team members. Managers also work with other departments to coordinate activities and resolve issues as they arise. Their aim is to create a productive and efficient work environment that helps the organisation achieve its goals.Find manager jobs
7. Executive assistant
National average salary:£32,616 per yearPrimary duties: An executive assistant provides administrative support to high-level executives in an organisation. They manage schedules, coordinate meetings and events and handle correspondence and communications on behalf of the executives. Executive assistants also conduct research, prepare reports and perform other tasks as necessary to help the executives achieve their goals. These assistants’ objective is to ensure that the executives they support can work efficiently and effectively.Find executive assistant jobsRelated:What is an executive assistant and how much do they make?
8. Data analyst
National average salary:£33,701 per yearPrimary duties: A data analyst is responsible for collecting, processing and performing statistical analyses on large data sets. They use data visualisation tools and other techniques to identify trends, patterns and insights that can inform business decisions. Data analysts also create reports and presentations to communicate their findings to leaders in an organisation. Their goal is to help the organisation make data-driven decisions that can improve performance and achieve business objectives.Find data analyst jobsRelated:10 data analyst certifications to expand your skills
9. Accountant
National average salary:£34,974 per yearPrimary duties: An accountant is responsible for managing financial records, ensuring their accuracy and preparing financial reports for individuals and organisations. They track expenses, income and other financial transactions to make sure they comply with accounting standards and regulations. Accountants also advise on financial matters, such as tax planning and budgeting, to help their clients make informed decisions. Their aim is to ensure that the recording of financial transactions is accurate and that businesses and individuals are financially stable.Find accountant jobsRelated:How to become a qualified accountant (definition and steps)
10. Mechanical engineer
National average salary:£36,292 per yearPrimary duties: A mechanical engineer applies the principles of physics and materials science to design, develop and maintain mechanical systems and products. They work on a range of projects, such as designing machinery and vehicles and developing heating and cooling systems. Mechanical engineers also analyse data, conduct experiments and perform tests to make sure their designs meet safety, efficiency and performance standards. Their goal is to create innovative solutions that meet the needs of businesses and consumers.Find mechanical engineer jobsRelated:How to become a mechanical engineer (with steps)
11. Business analyst
National average salary:£43,340 per yearPrimary duties: A business analyst is responsible for analysing business operations and processes to identify areas for improvement. They gather and examine data to provide insights and recommendations to a company’s management team. Their primary goal is to help the company make informed decisions and achieve its business objectives.Find business analyst jobsRelated:The different types of business analyst certifications
12. Project manager
National average salary:£45,625 per yearPrimary duties: A project manager is someone who plans, organises and oversees the execution of a project from its beginning to its end. They are responsible for ensuring that the undertaking’s completion occurs within the planned scope, timeline and budget. They work with other team members, such as designers, developers and engineers, to ensure that everyone aligns with the project objectives and requirements. The project manager also monitors the initiative’s progress and identifies and manages risks and issues that might arise.Find project manager jobs
13. Data scientist
National average salary:£50,317 per yearPrimary duties: A data scientist is a professional who uses statistical and computational methods to analyse and interpret complex data sets. They work to identify patterns and insights in the data that can help inform decision-making and solve challenges. Data scientists might also develop machine learning models and algorithms to automate processes and make predictions according to the data.Find data scientist jobsRelated:What is a data scientist? (With qualifications and skills)
14. Software engineer
National average salary:£44,547 per yearPrimary duties: A software engineer designs, develops, tests and maintains computer software. They work with programming languages and software development tools to create programs and applications that meet specific user needs. They may also collaborate with other computer or software experts, such as designers and project managers, to ensure that the software’s delivery is on time and within budget. Software engineers typically have a strong understanding of computer science and programming principles.Find software engineer jobsRelated:How to become a software engineer (plus key skills)
15. Consultant
National average salary:£75,474 per yearPrimary duties: A consultant is someone who provides expert advice and guidance to organisations or individuals in a particular field. They often work on a project basis, analysing a client’s issue or need and providing recommendations for solutions. Consultants may also assist with implementing these remedies and monitoring their effectiveness.Find consultant jobs.
The UK job market is diverse, offering a wide range of job types across various industries. These can be categorized in several ways, such as by sector, nature of employment, or contract type. Below is an overview of the types of jobs in the UK:
1. By Sector
The UK economy is divided into three main sectors:
- Primary Sector: Jobs involving the extraction of natural resources, such as:
- Farming
- Fishing
- Mining
- Forestry
- Secondary Sector: Jobs in manufacturing and production, such as:
- Construction workers
- Factory workers
- Engineers
- Industrial technicians
- Tertiary Sector (Services): Jobs providing services, such as:
- Healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, carers)
- Education professionals (teachers, lecturers)
- Retail staff
- Hospitality workers (chefs, hotel staff)
- Quaternary Sector: Knowledge-based and research-intensive jobs, such as:
- IT professionals
- Scientists
- Analysts
- Innovators in tech and finance
2. By Employment Nature
- Full-Time Jobs: Jobs with a standard workweek, typically 35–40 hours.
- Part-Time Jobs: Jobs with fewer hours than full-time roles, common in retail and hospitality.
- Temporary Jobs: Short-term jobs, often seasonal or project-based (e.g., holiday staff, contract roles).
- Permanent Jobs: Long-term or indefinite roles with stability.
- Freelance or Self-Employment: Independent contractors or business owners offering specialized services.
- Internships and Apprenticeships: Training-based roles, often for students or young professionals.
3. By Work Environment
- Office-Based Jobs: Administrative, managerial, or desk-based work (e.g., accountants, marketing professionals).
- Remote or Hybrid Jobs: Roles performed from home or a mix of home and office work (e.g., IT specialists, consultants).
- Field Jobs: Jobs requiring outdoor or on-location work (e.g., delivery drivers, construction workers).
- Manual Labor Jobs: Jobs involving physical work (e.g., mechanics, plumbers).
4. By Industry
The UK has numerous industries offering diverse job roles:
- Healthcare: NHS and private sector roles.
- Finance and Banking: Accountants, investment bankers, financial analysts.
- Education: School teachers, university lecturers.
- Retail and Customer Service: Sales assistants, store managers.
- Hospitality and Tourism: Hotel staff, tour guides, chefs.
- Technology and IT: Software developers, cybersecurity experts.
- Transport and Logistics: Drivers, pilots, supply chain managers.
- Creative Arts and Media: Writers, graphic designers, actors.
- Government and Public Services: Civil servants, police officers.
- Manufacturing and Engineering: Factory workers, engineers.
5. By Contract Type
- Permanent Contracts: Ongoing roles with benefits like pensions.
- Fixed-Term Contracts: Jobs with a specified end date.
- Zero-Hour Contracts: Flexible roles with no guaranteed hours.
- Gig Work: Short-term jobs or freelance work (e.g., Uber drivers, Deliveroo riders).
In total, there are hundreds of job roles and career paths in the UK, given its dynamic economy and diverse industries. Whether you’re seeking office work, hands-on roles, or knowledge-based careers, there are options for almost every skill set and interest.