High-Paying Construction Jobs in the UK – Up to £20/Hour + Visa Sponsorship Available

The UK’s construction industry is facing a skills shortage, driving up demand for qualified workers across a range of trades. As a result, high-paying construction jobs are available with salaries reaching up to £20 per hour. For international workers looking to build a career in the UK, many employers are also offering visa sponsorship to fill these roles.

This guide will explore the top construction jobs with high earning potential, the visa sponsorship opportunities available, and how you can apply for these well-paying positions in the UK.

Top High-Paying Construction Jobs in the UK

1. Electricians
   • Pay Rate: £18 – £20/hour
   • Description: Electricians are essential on all types of construction projects, responsible for wiring buildings, installing lighting systems, and ensuring electrical safety. This job requires formal qualifications, including NVQ Level 3 or equivalent, and certification from relevant bodies like the NICEIC.
   • Major Companies Hiring: Balfour Beatty, Skanska, NG Bailey
   • Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified candidates
2. Plumbers
   • Pay Rate: £19 – £22/hour
   • Description: Plumbers are crucial for installing and maintaining water systems, heating, and gas lines in both residential and commercial properties. This skilled trade requires certification and experience.
   • Companies Hiring: Kier Group, Mitie, Wates Construction
   • Visa Sponsorship: Offered by top construction firms
3. Bricklayers
   • Pay Rate: £17 – £19/hour
   • Description: Bricklayers are in high demand to build walls, foundations, and structures for new housing and commercial developments. Precision and experience are essential for this physically demanding role.
   • Companies Hiring: Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon Homes, Morgan Sindall
   • Visa Sponsorship: Provided by several employers
4. Steel Fixers
   • Pay Rate: £18 – £20/hour
   • Description: Steel fixers work with steel reinforcement bars to construct the framework for large infrastructure projects. This role requires strong technical skills and the ability to work in demanding conditions.
   • Companies Hiring: Laing O’Rourke, Costain, Bam Nuttall
   • Visa Sponsorship: Available for experienced workers
5. Carpenters
   • Pay Rate: £18 – £21/hour
   • Description: Carpenters are responsible for constructing frameworks, installing doors, windows, and other structural elements in new builds. This skilled trade requires experience and formal training.
   • Companies Hiring: Willmott Dixon, Lendlease, Galliford Try
   • Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified candidates

What are the Required Skills and Qualifications Expected of Skilled Construction Workers?

• High school diploma
• Valid license depending on the role
• Health and Safety awareness
• Relevant trade qualifications
• Capable of thriving under intense pressure
• Able to lift and move heavy objects without hassles
• Good hand eye coordination skills
• Proficiency in using construction tools and machinery
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to follow technical drawings and plans

Visa Sponsorship Opportunities for Construction Workers

The UK offers several visa options for skilled construction workers from abroad, and many employers are willing to sponsor workers in high-demand trades.

1. Skilled Worker Visa
   • Eligibility: You must have a job offer from a UK-based employer with a sponsorship license. The role must meet specific skill and salary requirements, which skilled construction roles generally fulfill.
   • Salary Requirement: The minimum salary threshold is £25,600 per year, or the going rate for the occupation, which most skilled construction jobs meet.
   • Duration: This visa can last up to 5 years and can be extended.
   • Path to Permanent Residency: After 5 years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency.
2. Temporary Worker Visa (T5)
   • Eligibility: This visa allows workers to take up temporary roles, typically for up to 12 months. It’s ideal for seasonal or short-term projects in construction.
   • Visa Sponsorship: Required from an employer who has a license to sponsor temporary workers.
   • No Salary Requirement: Unlike the Skilled Worker Visa, there’s no minimum salary requirement for this visa.

How to Find High-Paying Construction Jobs in the UK

To find high-paying construction roles in the UK, you can explore the following platforms:

1. Job Boards:
   • Websites such as Indeed, Totaljobs, and Reed often list construction jobs with competitive pay and visa sponsorship opportunities.
2. Construction Company Websites:
   • Major UK construction firms like Balfour Beatty, Skanska, and Galliford Try frequently post job openings on their career pages, including roles with visa sponsorship.
3. Recruitment Agencies:
   • Agencies such as Randstad CPE, Hays Construction, and Fawkes & Reece specialize in recruiting for the construction industry. They can connect you with employers offering visa sponsorship for skilled roles.

If you’re a skilled construction worker looking for high-paying jobs in the UK, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you. With hourly rates reaching up to £20 and visa sponsorship available, it’s the perfect time to advance your career in the UK construction industry.