Nestled between Manchester and Liverpool, Wigan offers a mix of urban and rural appeal, making it a fantastic place to live and work. The town has a long industrial history, particularly in coal mining and textiles, but over recent years, it has diversified into a range of industries. Today, Wigan is home to a thriving economy with opportunities across various sectors. Whether you’re a local looking for a new role or considering relocating to this historic town, Wigan has a wealth of job opportunities to explore. Here are the top five job opportunities in Wigan that you should know about.
1. Healthcare Roles
Wigan is home to several prominent healthcare institutions, including the Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust. The healthcare sector is one of the largest employers in the area, with demand for qualified professionals consistently high. From doctors and nurses to administrative roles, Wigan offers a variety of healthcare jobs.
- Nursing: There is a continual demand for registered nurses, especially in specialties such as geriatrics, mental health, and critical care.
- Healthcare Assistants: For those looking for entry-level positions or a career change, healthcare assistant roles in hospitals and care homes are plentiful.
- Support and Administrative Roles: The NHS also needs administrative staff, from medical secretaries to receptionists, in order to keep healthcare services running smoothly.
As the population of Wigan continues to grow and age, the need for healthcare professionals is expected to rise, making this a stable and rewarding sector to pursue a career in.
2. Manufacturing and Engineering Jobs
Wigan has deep roots in manufacturing and engineering, and while the landscape has evolved, these sectors still play a key role in the local economy. The town has seen a resurgence in manufacturing, particularly in industries such as automotive, construction, and advanced engineering.
Additionally, Wigan’s strategic location near major transport networks—such as the M6 motorway—has made it an attractive spot for logistics and supply chain companies, further supporting manufacturing and engineering jobs.
For those with qualifications in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, or those seeking an apprenticeship to learn on the job, Wigan offers plenty of opportunities for advancement.
3. Retail and Customer Service Jobs
Wigan boasts a thriving retail sector, with a mix of independent shops and large retail chains. Centres like The Grand Arcade and Wigan Market provide ample job opportunities in retail, from part-time roles to full-time positions.
- Sales Assistants: Whether in high street stores or larger supermarkets, there is a constant need for sales assistants who can provide excellent customer service.
- Store Managers: For those with experience in retail, management positions are available with attractive salaries and career progression.
- Customer Service: In addition to store roles, customer service jobs in call centres and customer support teams are also in high demand.
The retail sector in Wigan is especially thriving as people continue to seek goods and services locally. Furthermore, many roles offer flexible hours, which can be appealing for students, part-timers, or those with family commitments.
4. Technology and IT Jobs
The technology sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the UK, and Wigan is no exception. While the town may not have the same reputation for tech as cities like Manchester or Liverpool, the demand for IT professionals is steadily increasing. More businesses are relying on digital transformation, and Wigan is seeing a rise in software development, IT support, and cybersecurity roles.
Local companies, including those in retail, finance, and engineering, require IT specialists to keep their operations running smoothly. Job titles you might come across in Wigan include:
- Software Developers: With the rise of digital solutions and e-commerce, there’s a growing need for developers skilled in coding, app development, and cloud technologies.
- IT Support Technicians: Businesses of all sizes need tech-savvy individuals to provide technical support to staff and troubleshoot issues.
- Cybersecurity Experts: As cyber threats grow, organisations are investing in security measures to protect sensitive data, creating demand for professionals skilled in cybersecurity.
For those with expertise in IT or looking to retrain in the field, Wigan offers opportunities in both established businesses and emerging start-ups. Additionally, the rise of remote work means that IT jobs are more flexible and accessible.
5. Education and Childcare Roles
Education is another key sector in Wigan, with several schools, colleges, and childcare centres in need of skilled staff. If you’re passionate about helping others learn and grow, Wigan offers various roles in teaching, learning support, and childcare.
- Teachers: Whether you specialise in primary, secondary, or special education, there is always a demand for qualified teachers in the area. The town’s schools often have vacancies for full-time, part-time, and supply teaching roles.
- Teaching Assistants: For those who want to work with children but don’t have a teaching qualification, teaching assistant positions offer an alternative path. These roles provide valuable classroom experience and are often a stepping stone to further qualifications.
- Childcare Workers: Wigan’s growing population means that there is a need for additional childcare professionals. Nursery assistants, early years practitioners, and childcare supervisors are regularly sought after in the area.
With schools continuing to grow and the government’s focus on education and childcare services, this sector offers long-term stability and opportunities for career progression.
Conclusion
Wigan may be a small town, but it’s bursting with job opportunities across a diverse range of industries. Whether you’re interested in healthcare, manufacturing, retail, technology, or education, there are plenty of roles to explore. The town’s strategic location, excellent transport links, and growing economy make it an appealing place for both job seekers and businesses alike.
If you’re looking to take the next step in your career, Wigan has a lot to offer. With the right skills and a bit of perseverance, you could find yourself working in one of these thriving sectors. Whatever your background or interests, there’s no shortage of exciting opportunities waiting for you in Wigan.