The UK engineering landscape is navigating a pivotal era of growth and transformation, where rapid advancements in manufacturing and renewable energy meet sustained demand across critical infrastructure. As the competition for skilled talent reaches new heights, 69% of employers now identify a lack of candidates as their primary recruiting challenge.
We are proud to introduce the Rise Technical 2025/26 Salary Benchmark. Based on insights from our vast network of industry leaders and employees, this report provides a comprehensive view of compensation trends across six UK regions - including London, the Midlands, Scotland, and the North. Discover regional benchmarks for high-demand roles like Controls & Instrumentation Engineers, Operations Managers, and Electrical Design Engineers, with a detailed breakdown of both permanent salaries and contract day rates.
Beyond base pay, the report highlights the shifting priorities of a workforce where 79% of professionals are actively considering a move in 2026. With 50% of employers reporting that salary expectations now exceed existing budgets, aligning your offers with current market standards for both permanent and contract resource is no longer optional, but essential for project success and retention.
