The UK Infrastructure Crisis and What it Means for Skilled Construction Workers

The UK has big plans to build new infrastructure. From wind farms to data centres to new homes, there’s big demand for the construction sector.

That means a big demand for construction workers, too, especially senior managers with the right skills and experience. However, while this demand is going up, the pool of skilled professionals is shrinking.

There are plenty of jobs going around, but not enough people to fill them. So, if you’re a skilled construction professional, now is the perfect time to consider a job switch.

Competitive Wages

The imbalance between the need for skilled professionals and the shortage of suitable people is forcing companies to adapt. One way they’ve done this is to increase wages.

According to the Construction Products Association (CPA), wages in construction were 22% higher at the end of 2023 compared to the start of 2019.

While this isn’t consistent across all sectors, in particular housing, the general trend is that salaries are shifting upwards at a rate much faster than the general population.

So, if you haven’t seen this first hand, it’s not a bad idea to scout the market and see what’s on offer at other companies.

Better Terms

Companies can’t always afford to hike up pay, especially given the state of the economy.

So, many companies are adapting by improving their working conditions and offering more attractive employment packages to retain and attract talent.

This could mean better holiday terms, more flexible work-from-home arrangements, or better training and development opportunities.

Career Advancement

The skills shortage spans all levels and specialisms within the construction sector but is particularly profound at the senior level.

This, in large part, is because older generations are retiring, and there aren’t enough skilled professionals in the younger generation to fill the vacuum.

For younger senior professionals, the shortage means that there are far more opportunities for career progression to replace the old guard.

Now is a great time to evaluate whether your present position is offering you the best chance of moving your career forward. If not, a job switch could mean a step up in your career, with more responsibility, higher pay, and the chance to work on more high-profile projects.

Stability and Job Security

While the UK construction sector faces challenges, the overall outlook for the industry remains strong, driven by the government’s extensive infrastructure plans.

Some firms are, however, struggling amidst rising material costs and a general slowdown in the economy. Housing, for example, has been affected.

It might be worth considering whether your present company is struggling or not. If so, by moving to a company with a strong pipeline of projects, skilled workers can ensure long-term employment and professional growth.

Conclusion

Navigating the job market can be challenging, especially when balancing discretion and privacy to avoid unsettling your current employer.

Pinnacle Recruitment has specialised in the construction sector for over 20 years. We pride ourselves on respecting our candidates’ privacy and being discreet when finding suitable roles for them.

Additionally, we provide valuable feedback to candidates, helping them succeed in future applications even if they face initial setbacks on the first ones.

We also have extensive industry connections, so as to match you with the right role that aligns with your skills and career aspirations.

If you’re a skilled construction professional looking to make a strategic career move, Pinnacle Recruitment is your ideal partner in finding the perfect opportunity. Please contact [email protected]