Preston is home to a diverse range of industries, each offering unique opportunities for job seekers. Whether you’re looking to work in the public sector, healthcare, or digital, Preston has a wealth of career options available right now. As the city continues to grow and evolve, several key sectors are driving employment opportunities and attracting top talent. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the top five sectors hiring in Preston at the moment and explore the roles within each sector that are in demand.
1. Healthcare and Social Care
The healthcare sector has long been a key employer in Preston, and its importance has only increased in recent years. With a growing population and an ageing demographic, demand for healthcare services and professionals continues to rise, creating numerous job opportunities across various roles.
- NHS Jobs
- The NHS remains one of the largest employers in the region, offering a wide range of roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. From medical professionals such as doctors and nurses to administrative staff, allied health professionals, and support workers, there’s a variety of positions available across the NHS in Preston. The Royal Preston Hospital and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are major employers in the city.
- Social Care and Support Workers
- As more people require care services, there’s a growing need for social care workers, particularly those who can support elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and those in vulnerable situations. Jobs in this sector range from home carers to social workers and residential care staff, with organisations like Preston City Council and private care providers regularly recruiting.
- Therapists and Healthcare Assistants
- There is also an increasing demand for healthcare assistants, physiotherapists, and mental health professionals to support the diverse needs of the community. Opportunities for those with specific healthcare qualifications are abundant, especially for roles that focus on mental health, rehabilitation, and physical care.
2. Digital and Technology
The digital and technology sector in Preston is thriving and offers exciting opportunities for those with a background in software development, IT support, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. As businesses continue to digitalise their services, the demand for tech professionals has surged.
- Software Development and Engineering
- Preston is home to a growing number of tech companies, many of which are recruiting developers and software engineers to work on cutting-edge projects. Skills in programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and C# are particularly sought after, with roles ranging from front-end and back-end developers to full-stack engineers.
- Cybersecurity Experts
- As businesses face increasing threats from cyber-attacks, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. Companies in Preston are hiring for roles in network security, data protection, and IT risk management. With data breaches becoming more common, organisations are keen to bolster their defences, making this a lucrative and stable career path.
- Digital Marketing and SEO
- The rise of online marketing has created a demand for skilled professionals in digital marketing, particularly those with expertise in SEO, content strategy, and social media management. Companies across various sectors in Preston are looking for digital marketers to help them improve their online presence and drive customer engagement.
3. Education and Training
As a city with a number of respected educational institutions, including the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)and Preston College, the education and training sector in Preston remains a significant source of employment.
- Teaching and Academic Roles
- There’s a steady demand for teachers in both primary and secondary schools, as well as in special educational needs (SEN) settings. With a range of schools in the area, there are opportunities for qualified teachers, as well as teaching assistants, to work with students across different age groups and subjects.
- Higher Education Positions
- The University of Central Lancashire is one of the largest employers in the city, regularly recruiting academic staff, researchers, and administrative professionals. Whether you’re looking for roles in higher education teaching, research assistance, or student services, UCLan offers numerous opportunities for those with a background in academia or research.
- Vocational Training and Apprenticeships
- The demand for vocational training and apprenticeships is also on the rise, particularly in sectors like engineering, healthcare, and construction. Local training providers and colleges are hiring apprenticeship coordinators, trainers, and mentors to support students and young people entering the workforce.
4. Manufacturing and Engineering
Historically, Preston has been a major hub for manufacturing and engineering, and this sector continues to be an essential part of the local economy. With several large manufacturers and engineering firms based in and around the city, there are plenty of opportunities for skilled workers in this field.
- Production and Manufacturing Roles
- Jobs in manufacturing span a wide range of positions, from assembly line workers to production managers. With the continued growth of sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics, there’s high demand for skilled workers who can operate machinery, manage production lines, or ensure quality control.
- Engineering Roles
- With companies like BAE Systems operating in the area, engineering roles are abundant in Preston. Positions in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering are particularly in demand. Additionally, there are opportunities for design engineers, project managers, and systems engineers to work in industries ranging from aerospace to construction and energy.
- Skilled Trades and Technicians
- There is also a growing demand for skilled tradespeople such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. These roles are critical for maintaining and servicing equipment in manufacturing facilities, construction sites, and industrial settings.
5. Retail and Hospitality
Preston’s retail and hospitality sectors offer a wealth of opportunities, particularly as the city centre continues to develop with new shopping centres, restaurants, and hotels. The ongoing recovery of the hospitality industry post-pandemic has resulted in a surge of job vacancies in these areas.
- Customer Service and Retail Management
- With shopping hubs like St. George’s Shopping Centre and Fishergate Centre, retail continues to be a vital part of Preston’s economy. Jobs in customer service, retail sales, and management are in high demand. Retailers are looking for individuals who are passionate about providing excellent customer service and have experience in stock management, visual merchandising, and team leadership.
- Hospitality and Catering
- The hospitality sector in Preston is booming, with numerous hotels, restaurants, bars, and cafes hiring staff. Roles in this sector range from front-of-house positions such as waitstaff and receptionists to chefs, kitchen assistants, and event coordinators. As tourism and local dining experiences continue to thrive, there is ample opportunity to join this fast-paced industry.
- Event Management and Coordination
- With the city hosting a range of cultural and business events throughout the year, there is demand for event coordinators, planners, and support staff. Whether it’s for local festivals, conferences, or weddings, event organisers are always on the lookout for detail-oriented and organised individuals.
Conclusion
Preston’s job market is diverse and vibrant, with multiple sectors offering exciting opportunities for job seekers. Whether you’re looking to enter the healthcare sector, pursue a career in digital technology, or explore roles in education, manufacturing, or retail, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city. By targeting these top hiring sectors, you’ll be well-positioned to find a rewarding and fulfilling career in Preston right now. Keep an eye on local opportunities, and take the time to research companies within these sectors to find the perfect fit for your skills and career goals.