Bedford, located in the heart of Bedfordshire, has a diverse economy with opportunities across various sectors. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start or changing careers, here are the top five industries currently hiring in Bedford.
1. Healthcare and Social Care
Healthcare is a rapidly growing sector in Bedford, with demand for professionals across various roles, including:
- Nurses and healthcare assistants
- Care home workers and social carers
- Occupational therapists and physiotherapists
Bedford Hospital NHS Trust and local care providers regularly recruit for these positions, making healthcare one of the largest employers in the area.
2. Education and Teaching
Bedford has a strong education sector with opportunities in both teaching and administration, such as:
- Primary and secondary school teachers
- Special educational needs (SEN) teaching assistants
- School administration and support staff
There are numerous schools and colleges in Bedford, including Bedford College and The Bedford School, that are always in need of dedicated education professionals.
3. Retail and Customer Service
As a growing town with several shopping centres and a busy high street, Bedford offers plenty of retail and customer service jobs in:
- Retail assistants and sales associates
- Customer service representatives
- Management and supervisor roles in stores and cafés
With popular shopping centres such as The Harpur Centre and Bedford’s bustling town centre, retail positions remain in demand.
4. Logistics and Distribution
Bedford's central location and good transport links make it an ideal place for logistics and distribution jobs, including:
- Warehouse operatives and forklift drivers
- HGV and delivery drivers
- Supply chain and logistics managers
The expansion of distribution centres and the growing demand for goods ensures a continuous need for logistics staff in Bedford.
5. Engineering and Manufacturing
Bedford has a strong manufacturing sector, with roles available in:
- Mechanical and electrical engineers
- Production line operators
- Maintenance technicians and engineers
Companies such as Bedford’s Carters and other local manufacturers regularly look for skilled workers to join their teams.