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10 Top Highest Paying Engineering Jobs in the UK

Engineering students in class

Known for its cutting-edge research, world-class universities, and a strong industrial legacy, the UK provides a great place for aspiring engineers to begin their careers – especially when it comes to pursuing the highest paying engineering jobs.

Engineering isn't just about technical know-how; it's about shaping the world. Understanding why engineering is important reveals its role in addressing global challenges, from sustainable energy to advanced technology. The UK, with its rich history of engineering breakthroughs, offers a fertile ground to contribute to a profession that's integral to societal progress. And the UK's education system, known for its practical approach and industry links, prepares students for a range of job opportunities in engineering.

Post-graduation, the career options after engineering are vast. There’s a truly diverse range of careers in engineering with high earning potential. From civil to software engineering, biomedical to environmental, the types of engineering jobs are both varied and rewarding. The UK is home to numerous engineering firms, from start-ups to multinational corporations, all offering competitive salaries and the chance to work on exciting, world-changing projects.

If you're looking to get into the highest paying engineering jobs, studying in the UK is a valuable first step for those looking at what to do after engineering.

And if you’re wondering which are the highest paid engineering jobs in the UK, this blog post will take you through the top 10 career paths you can pursue.

Top 10 highest paid engineering jobs in the UK

Choosing to study in the UK can open doors to a variety of career options after engineering. Here’s our pick of the top 10 highest paying engineering jobs in the UK.

Mechanical engineering

Mechanical engineers work on the design, analysis, and manufacture of mechanical systems and devices. They work on everything from small components to large machinery in order to develop new technologies and improve existing ones. You could find yourself working on anything from engines and machinery to consumer products.

At Cardiff University International Study Centre, you can take the first steps towards a career in mechanical engineering on one of our programmes for international students:

Civil engineering

Civil engineering involves the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of structures like bridges, buildings, and roads. A career as a civil engineer means focusing on the infrastructure that shapes our world.

Cardiff University International Study Centre offers tailored programmes for this career path, ensuring students are well-prepared for a career in engineering:

Electrical engineering

Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and devices, ranging from small circuits to large power networks. This can include working on power generation, electronics, electrical circuits, or telecommunications. In this branch of engineering, you’ll be at the forefront of developing new technologies, making this field both challenging and rewarding.

International students looking to begin their career in electrical engineering in the UK may be interested in the following programmes:

Architectural engineering

Architectural engineers plan, design, build and maintain buildings. Merging structural engineering with architectural design, this field focuses on building design, construction, and services. 

Start working towards a high-paying career in architectural engineering at Cardiff University International Study Centre:

Civil and environmental engineering

Civil and environmental engineers design, build, and maintain the spaces and places that shape our everyday lives. A career in this area of engineering means working on issues such as waste management, contaminated land, and water treatment.

If you want to start your career in engineering by studying in the UK, take a look at the following Cardiff University International Study Centre programme:

​Integrated engineering

Not sure which area of engineering to pursue? A degree in integrated engineering will cover a broad range of topics in electrical, electronic, and mechanical engineering. This will help you develop expertise in the areas of manufacturing, mechatronics, computer-aided design, and renewable energy, setting you up for a variety of high paying careers in engineering. 

A great first step is to study a broad engineering programme:

Medical engineering

Medical engineering applies engineering principles to medical and healthcare technologies. Medical engineers play a crucial role in developing new medical devices, applications, diagnostic technologies and treatments, directly impacting patient care and health outcomes. This type of engineering job is not only highly paid – it saves lives.

Before specialising, international students looking to study in the UK will first need to complete a broader programme in engineering:

Electrical and electronic engineering

Electrical and electronic engineers develop and improve electrical and electronic devices, from everyday gadgets to complex systems. It's a field that’s constantly evolving alongside technological advances, so there will be ongoing opportunities for learning and development.

Study engineering at Cardiff University

Cardiff University is part of the renowned Russell Group of universities in the UK. It is ranked 25th in the UK in The Times and the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 and 154th in the QS World University Rankings 2024. It also ranked 11th in the UK for research impact (Research Excellence Framework, 2021), demonstrating the university’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

The University is also particularly well-regarded for the study of engineering, ranking 16th in the UK for General Engineering and 18th for Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Civil Engineering (The Complete University Guide 2024). These rankings reflect the comprehensive nature of Cardiff’s engineering programmes, setting students on a path to some of the highest paying engineering jobs in the UK.

Career-focused students will also be interested to learn that Cardiff came 12th in the UK for employability in The Times Higher Education ranking. Studying at Cardiff University opens doors to numerous career options after engineering, providing graduates with not just a degree, but a portfolio of skills and experiences that are highly valued in today’s job market.

Cardiff University International Study Centre is the perfect stepping stone to successful careers in engineering for international students. Find out more about the programmes offered, entry requirements, fee structures, and visa information.

FAQs

Which field of engineering is best in the UK?

  • The "best" field of engineering depends on individual interests and career goals. However, mechanical engineers, civil engineers, and electrical engineers are all highly regarded in the UK. Each of these disciplines offers high paying career options after engineering, with the opportunity to work on ground-breaking projects and contribute to technological advancements.

Is engineering hard in the UK?

  • Engineering in the UK is a field driven by innovation and problem-solving. While it requires dedication and hard work, the sense of accomplishment and the wide range of job opportunities in engineering make it a fulfilling career choice.

Is engineering a high paying job in the UK?

  • Yes, engineering is generally considered one of the highest paying engineering jobs in the UK. Engineers in the UK across different engineering disciplines are valued for their skills and expertise, which is reflected by competitive salaries.