Where to find manufacturing & engineering talent in the UK

Finding the right manufacturing & engineering professionals can be a challenge. The UK has a rich history in these the manufacturing & engineering sectors, but talent and opportunity is spread across the country. So, where do you look? This guide highlights some key UK hubs, offering insights to help you pinpoint your next hire or dream job.    

Fill a vacancy

Regional powerhouses: Where talent thrives

Several regions stand out for their strong engineering and manufacturing presence. Let's explore a few:

The Midlands: The heart of UK manufacturing

Historically a manufacturing powerhouse, the Midlands (particularly Birmingham and the surrounding areas) continues to be a crucial hub. With a strong automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing base, you'll find a deep pool of skilled professionals. This region is experiencing a resurgence, being named the best cities for foreign direct investment, making it an excellent place to find experienced and emerging talent and newly funded ventures. Plus, Michael Page has offices in Birmingham and Nottingham to support your search here.    

Related:

North West: Innovation and industry

From Manchester's burgeoning tech scene to the industrial heritage of Lancashire, the North West offers a diverse range of talent. Aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and energy are key sectors here. Liverpool and Manchester boast strong universities producing top graduates. Michael Page's Manchester office is well-placed to connect you with the best candidates and innovative companies.    

Related:

South East: A hub for high-tech:  

The South East, including London and the surrounding areas, is a hotbed for high-tech engineering, particularly in sectors like aerospace, defence, and pharmaceuticals. While competition can be fierce, the concentration of skilled professionals makes it a prime location for finding specialist talent. Michael Page has multiple offices in London and surrounding areas to assist you.

Related:

Scotland: Engineering excellence

Scotland offers a growing pool of engineering talent, particularly in energy (renewables and oil & gas), manufacturing, and technology, concentrated around Glasgow and Edinburgh. Initiatives like the Royal Academy of Engineering's Enterprise Hub Scotland, which has already supported 35 early-stage entrepreneurs in Scotland and awarded £1.6 million in total grant funding to date, are nurturing new engineering and tech ventures, creating opportunities for employers to tap into emerging talent and innovation.  

Related:

Strategic satellite offices

Depending on your specific needs, establishing a satellite office in a key region can be a smart move. This offers several advantages:

Access to specialised talent: If your company specialises in a particular area, locating near a cluster of similar businesses can give you access to a concentrated pool of relevant skills.

Stronger employer branding: A local presence can enhance your employer brand and make you more attractive to local talent.    

Reduced relocation costs: Hiring locally minimises relocation expenses and disruption for new employees.

How Michael Page can help

Our specialist recruiters have in-depth knowledge of local markets and access to a wide network of qualified candidates. We can help you:

Identify the best talent: We understand the specific skills and experience required for different roles and can connect you with the most suitable candidates. 

Streamline the hiring process: We help you throughout the entire recruitment process, from sourcing and screening candidates to helping you negotiate offers, saving you time and resources.    

Provide market insights: We can offer valuable insights into salary trends, skills shortages, and other market dynamics to help you make informed decisions.

Whether you're looking for experienced engineers, skilled technicians, or future leaders in manufacturing, partnering with Michael Page can give you a competitive edge in the search for top talent.  

Contact your local Michael Page office today to discuss your recruitment needs and discover how we can help you build a high-performing team. Find your next hire with Michael Page. 

Request a call back

Join over 80,000 readers!

Receive free advice to help give you a competitive edge in your career.