The United Kingdom (UK) is experiencing a construction boom, with major infrastructure projects, housing developments, and commercial buildings in progress. To meet this growing demand, UK employers are offering construction jobs starting from $20,000 per year, and many of these positions come with visa sponsorship for foreign workers.
If you’re considering moving to the UK for work, here are the main types of construction jobs you can apply for under visa sponsorship.
1. General Construction Laborers
- Average Salary: $20,000 – $25,000
- Role: Assisting skilled workers, preparing materials, cleaning sites, and handling basic construction tasks.
- Eligibility: Minimal formal qualifications; physical strength and stamina are key.
2. Bricklayers and Masons
- Average Salary: $20,000 – $30,000
- Role: Building walls, repairing brickwork, and laying stone for residential and commercial projects.
- Eligibility: Some training or prior experience preferred. Often included on the UK shortage occupation list.
3. Welders
- Average Salary: $22,000 – $35,000
- Role: Welding steel structures, frames, and machinery used in construction.
- Eligibility: Certification or work experience required. High demand across the UK.
4. Electricians
- Average Salary: $25,000 – $40,000
- Role: Installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in buildings and construction sites.
- Eligibility: Formal training and proof of qualifications needed.
5. Plumbers and Pipefitters
- Average Salary: $23,000 – $38,000
- Role: Installing water systems, heating systems, and pipe networks in new and existing buildings.
- Eligibility: Relevant certification or on-the-job experience required.
6. Scaffolders
- Average Salary: $20,000 – $28,000
- Role: Building and dismantling scaffolding structures to support workers and materials.
- Eligibility: Training in safety and scaffolding assembly is usually required.
7. Heavy Equipment Operators
- Average Salary: $22,000 – $32,000
- Role: Operating machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators on construction sites.
- Eligibility: License or proof of training required.
8. Carpenters and Joiners
- Average Salary: $20,000 – $33,000
- Role: Working with wood to build frameworks, doors, windows, and furniture for construction projects.
- Eligibility: Hands-on experience and woodworking skills essential.
Why Employers Offer Visa Sponsorship
- Shortage of local labor in the UK construction industry.
- Ongoing infrastructure projects like roads, housing, and public facilities.
- Need for both skilled and unskilled workers.
Through the Skilled Worker visa, foreign workers can secure legal employment, earn a stable income, and even apply for permanent residency after 5 years.
Final Thoughts
From general laborers to skilled electricians, the UK construction industry offers a wide range of opportunities for foreign workers. With salaries starting at $20,000 annually and the added benefit of visa sponsorship, these roles open the door to a stable career and a brighter future in the UK