As the traditional work year resumes after summer holidays, a growing number of individuals are seeking careers away from desk-based roles. Data from job search site CV-Library highlights a significant demand for jobs that do not require constant computer screen time and offer salaries exceeding the UK's median full-time wage of £39,000.
Estate agents currently represent the most in-demand non-desk occupation, with nearly 29,000 vacancies posted in the past year, followed by quantity surveyors who command the highest average salary on the list at over £61,000.
In-Demand Roles and Salaries
Alec Stanwell of CV-Library noted that while artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the job market, particularly affecting administrative tasks in office work, roles requiring a "human touch" or specialized trade skills are more resilient. This trend, coupled with the rising cost of university education, is drawing more individuals towards apprenticeships and vocational qualifications.
The top ten highest-paying jobs that do not require sitting at a desk all day, ranked by the number of vacancies over the past year, include:
- Estate Agent: With 28,837 vacancies, this role involves managing property sales, purchases, rentals, and guiding clients through transactions. While some desk work is involved, a significant portion of the job includes client meetings and property viewings.
- Vehicle Technician/Mechanic: This position saw 9,153 postings and offers an average salary of £41,540. Responsibilities include inspecting, diagnosing, servicing, and repairing vehicles, primarily within automotive workshops.
- Electrician: With 7,399 vacancies and an average salary of £48,093, electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in various environments, requiring strong safety awareness and mathematical skills.
- Maintenance Engineer: This role, with 6,561 vacancies and an average salary of £46,841, involves installing, servicing, and repairing industrial machinery, typically in factories or on-site.
- Quantity Surveyor: The highest-paid role on the list with 3,855 vacancies and an average salary of £61,272. Quantity surveyors manage construction project costs and risks, often requiring a degree or graduate training.
- Building Control Inspector: This role had 3,813 vacancies and an average salary of £58,611. Inspectors ensure buildings meet safety regulations, combining office work with site visits.
- Lift Engineer: With 2,814 postings and an average salary of £40,900, lift engineers install, service, and repair lifts and escalators, often working in confined spaces and travelling between sites.
- Fire Risk Assessor: This position saw 2,519 vacancies with an average salary of £48,881. Assessors conduct fire safety evaluations and provide consultancy across various properties.
- Plumber: This trade had 2,202 vacancies and an average salary of £47,315. Plumbers install and repair water and heating systems, often working in homes, businesses, and on construction sites.
- Firefighter: With 1,078 vacancies and an average salary of £42,235, firefighters respond to emergencies such as fires, collisions, and flood incidents, requiring physical fitness and strong interpersonal skills.
Entry into these professions often involves apprenticeships, college courses, or vocational training, offering alternatives to traditional university degrees.