Highest Paid Construction Jobs

The construction industry appears to have a career path and ideal job for anyone who wants to enter the field. There are roles for practical construction workers and jobs for office professionals with technical expertise. So, if you are studying at school and considering working in the construction industry or are a seasoned veteran looking for a high-paying construction job, we have done the research you need. Our average salary data will help you target the best-paid construction jobs in the UK.

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Highest Paid Jobs In Construction UK
Top 100 Highest Paying Construction Jobs
Other Industries With High Average Annual Salaries
Highest Paying Construction Job FAQs

Highlights And Key Takeaways:

The best paid construction jobs include Commerical Construction Manager and Construction Commissioning Manager.
Other highest paying jobs in the trades include Marine Architect and Chartered Surveyor.

Highest Paid Jobs In Construction UK

High Paid Construction Jobs

We have collected and sorted the average salary data from 1,000s of construction companies advertising jobs. So, our average and maximum salary data will guide your next move, whether you are at trade school, taking a degree in geomatics, or moving up the ladder to the pinnacle of your career.

Highest Paying Construction Jobs By Average Salary:

1. COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

Commercial Construction Managers earn the highest average annual salary. The average salary of a Commercial Construction Manager is £68,300 per year.

Commercial Construction Managers come in first in our list of high-paying construction jobs. The Commercial Manager average salary is commanded by those capable of taking charge and coordinating all construction workers, subcontractors, their tools and equipment, and building materials. Commercial Managers for construction projects requires in-depth knowledge and years of experience, but if you have a Construction Management, Engineering, or Architecture Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree, your job growth over your career could lead you here.

Commercial Construction Manager Salary | Search Commercial Construction Manager Jobs

2. CONSTRUCTION COMMISSIONING MANAGER

The average salary of a Construction Commissioning Manager is £50,100 per year.

Construction Commissioning Managers come in a close second with a high average salary. To earn such a role, you must acquire experience in commissioning engineering, project management, and operating plant systems and processes. Construction Commissioning Managers plan and coordinate projects, track construction and commissioning and provide final sign-off.

Construction Commissioning Manager Salary | Search Construction Commissioning Manager Jobs

3. MARINE ARCHITECT

The average salary of a Marine Architect is £43,800 per year.

Marine Architects enter our construction industry high-earners list. Responsible for designing and overseeing repairs to floating structures and marine vessels, these architects work with Marine Engineers on dredges, barges, ships, buoys, and submarines. Degrees in Engineering or Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering could lead you down the path to job opportunities as a Marine Architect.

Marine Architect Salary | Search Marine Architect Jobs

4. CHARTERED SURVEYOR

The average salary of a Chartered Surveyor is £25,300 per year.

Chartered Surveyors work in one of the highest paying sectors and are responsible for conducting surveys for measuring, valuing, managing, and developing land or buildings. They may also survey roads, railway lines, harbours, and natural resources. To secure a high-paying role, you will need a relevant university degree and undergo the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).

Chartered Surveyor Salary | Search Chartered Surveyor Jobs

5. DESIGN ENGINEERING MANAGER

The average salary of a Design Engineering Manager is £61,600 per year.

Design Engineering Managers earn above the median salary in the construction sector. The Design Manager average salary is received by those who can manage external design teams responsible for permanent and temporary works. If you have Structural or Charted Civil Engineering qualifications and experience, securing one of the top construction salaries is possible.

Design Engineering Manager Salary | Search Design Engineering Manager Jobs

6. TECHNICAL MANAGER

The average salary of a Technical Manager is £53,500 per year.

Technical Managers earn a top wage for managing the organisation and development of the technical aspects of construction projects for residential and commercial buildings. They may be employed by construction companies or contracted to a specific project. You will need a formal education to secure such a role, usually a Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma.

Technical Manager Salary | Search Technical Manager Jobs

7. TUNNEL ENGINEER

The average salary of a Tunnel Engineer is £38,200 per year.

The Tunnel Engineer job title is given to someone who designs and plans programmes and procedures for tunnelling projects. They might design tunnel structures or procure the required construction materials. To fulfil the training requirements, you can start by gaining a Civil Engineering, Construction Studies, Structural Engineering, Construction and the Built Environment, or Building Engineering Degree, Higher National Certificate, or Higher National Diploma.

Tunnel Engineer Salary | Search Tunnel Engineer Jobs

8. CIVIL ENGINEER CONTRACT MANAGER

The average salary of a Civil Engineer Contract Manager is £55,100 per year.

Civil Engineer Contract Managers oversee projects and ensure all work is completed to budgets and the agreed-upon time. They hold a high-paying construction job for completing tasks such as negotiating contracts, resolving contract disputes, or renewing, cancelling, or amending contracts.

Civil Engineer Contract Manager Salary | Search Civil Engineer Contact Manager Jobs

9. CONSTRUCTION DESIGN MANAGER

The average salary of a Construction Design Manager is £50,400 per year.

Construction Design Managers work for construction companies and coordinate all project design elements. Their tasks include selecting subcontractors, advising on materials, ensuring designs meet zoning regulations and building codes, and working closely with Site Managers, Quantity Surveyors, and Building Inspectors.

Construction Design Manager Salary | Search Construction Design Manager Jobs

10. CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER

The average salary of a Construction Project Manager is £47,600 per year.

Construction Project Managers take the final place among top earners, paying well above the median salary. Construction Project Managers oversee the planning and delivery of all on-site work. The Construction Project Manager arranges the project’s schedule, tracks spending, and delegates work at construction sites. These construction field workers usually hold an Undergraduate Degree in Project Management or Construction Management.

Construction Project Manager Salary | Search Construction Project Manager Jobs

After viewing our list of top average salaries, you might be wondering which jobs have the highest maximum salary. Are they the same jobs or do other roles have a better maximum salary potential?

Best Paid Construction Jobs By Maximum Salary:

1. COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER

The maximum annual salary of a Commercial And Industrial Designer is £52,500.

Commercial And Industrial Designers come in first for the highest maximum salary. They bring together construction design, business, and engineering, conducting research and developing solutions. You will need a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Industrial Design followed by a few years of on-the-job training before securing a senior position.

Commercial And Industrial Designer Salary | Search Commercial And Industrial Designer Jobs

2. MARINE ARCHITECT

The maximum annual salary of a Marine Architect is £78,300.

Marine Architect Salary | Search Marine Architect Jobs

3. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS MANAGER

The maximum annual salary of a Construction Contracts Manager is £93,600.

Construction Contracts Managers oversee building project contracts. These high-paying construction jobs are held by construction industry workers who can negotiate terms and conditions, draw up legal documents, and outline the project’s deliverables. A Higher National Diploma or Foundation Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Building Studies, Business or Contract Management, or Civil or Structural Engineering are entry prerequisites.

Construction Contracts Manager Salary | Search Construction Contracts Manager Jobs

4. RESIDENT CIVIL ENGINEER

The maximum annual salary of a Resident Civil Engineer is £79,000.

Resident Civil Engineers have a high maximum salary potential. They oversee the construction process of residential buildings, high-rise buildings, bridges, and roads. A Civil Engineering Degree is valuable if you can see yourself working in this role.

Resident Civil Engineer Salary | Search Resident Civil Engineer Jobs

5. TUNNEL ENGINEER

The maximum annual salary of a Tunnel Engineer is £67,500.

Tunnel Engineer Salary | Search Tunnel Engineer Jobs

6. CIVIL PROJECT ENGINEER

The maximum annual salary of a Civil Project Engineer is £87,800.

Civil Project Engineers earn a high salary, working from an office base and directing the construction of bridges, roads, airports, dams, pipelines, gas, water, and sewer systems. They ensure Quality Assurance by implementing control systems, drafting specifications, interpreting architectural drawings, and ensuring compliance with job site safety protocols.

Civil Project Engineer Salary | Search Civil Project Engineer Jobs

7. CHARTERED SURVEYOR

The maximum annual salary of a Chartered Surveyor is £54,500.

Chartered Surveyor Salary | Search Chartered Surveyor Jobs

8. COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

The maximum annual salary of a Commercial Construction Manager is £104,000.

Commercial Construction Manager Salary | Search Commercial Construction Manager Jobs

9. DESIGN ENGINEERING MANAGER

The maximum annual salary of a Design Engineering Manager is £94,200.

Design Engineering Manager Salary | Search Design Engineering Manager Jobs

10. CONSTRUCTION DIRECTOR

The maximum annual salary of a Construction Director is £97,500.

Construction Directors just make the top ten of maximum construction industry salaries. They monitor construction activities on building projects, conduct financial management, schedule work, and ensure the project complies with standards and regulations. To be qualified for this role, you will need a Chartered Institute of Building Accredited Degree or Higher National Diploma.

Construction Director Salary | Search Construction Director Jobs

Top 100 Highest Paying Construction Jobs

High Paid Construction Worker Jobs

These are the top 100 highest paying construction jobs by average salary:

Other Industries With High Average Annual Salaries

You may also be interested in reading our similar salary research articles:

Highest Paying Construction Job FAQS

Construction Salary FAQs

Next we answer your questions on the highest paying construction jobs and highest paying construction trades UK.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST PAYING CONSTRUCTION JOBS?

The highest paying construction jobs include Commercial Construction Manager, Construction Commissioning Manager, Marine Architect, Chartered Surveyor, and Design Engineering Manager.

WHAT IS A SITE ENGINEER AVERAGE SALARY?

You can view the Site Engineer Average Salary here.

WHAT IS A SITE MANAGER AVERAGE SALARY?

You can view the Site Manager Average Salary here.

WHAT IS AN ARCHITECT AVERAGE SALARY?

In the dynamic landscape of a construction career, an architect plays a pivotal role. Their expertise not only shapes new construction projects but also defines the skyline of our cities. An architect in the UK typically earns an average salary of £43,000, which can vary based on experience and the specific construction company they are employed with.

WHAT IS THE CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AVERAGE SALARY?

The construction manager is the linchpin of any construction site, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and safely. Averaging a salary of £31,200, these skilled workers are instrumental in overseeing both residential and other structures, maintaining a balance between hands-on supervision and administrative responsibilities.

HOW MUCH DOES A BUILDING CONSTRUCTION WORKER EARN?

Building construction workers are the backbone of new construction, be it a multi-storey building or other infrastructural marvels. In the UK, these diligent workers, often juggling multiple job sites, earn an average of £27,100, reflecting their dedication and the physical demands of the construction trade.

WHAT IS THE HIGHEST PAID CONSTRUCTION JOBS UK?

Among the highest-paid roles in the construction sector are positions like structural iron and sheet metal workers. These professionals, who often work on complex and large-scale projects, can earn the most money in the industry, with salaries reaching upwards of £14,800, significantly above the national average.

WHAT IS THE QUANTITY SURVEYOR AVERAGE SALARY?

A Quantity Surveyor, with their ability to provide accurate estimates and handle technical information, is vital for budgeting in construction projects. In the UK, they earn an average salary of £41,500, a figure that underscores their expertise in managing costs and other materials efficiently.

HOW MUCH DO BUILDING INSPECTOR CONSTRUCTION JOBS PAY?

Building inspectors ensure that construction standards are met and safety regulations are adhered to. On construction sites across the UK, these professionals command an average salary of £34,700, a testament to their critical role in upholding construction quality and safety.

DO I NEED A BACHELOR’S DEGREE TO BE A QUANTITY SURVEYOR?

While a Bachelor’s degree can be beneficial for a career as a Quantity Surveyor, it is not always mandatory. Many enter the field with relevant diplomas or through apprenticeships, acquiring the skills to manage financial and technical information pertinent to construction projects.

HOW MUCH DO ELEVATOR INSTALLERS EARN?

Elevator installers, integral to the functionality of modern multi-storey buildings, are handsomely compensated for their technical skills and knowledge of electrical components. In the UK, they earn an average salary of £42,200, reflecting the precision and expertise required in their trade.

HOW MUCH DO COST ESTIMATORS EARN?

Cost estimators, with their knack for providing accurate estimates, play a crucial role in the financial planning of new construction projects. In the UK, these professionals, who often liaise with various departments within a construction company, earn an average of £39,400 annually.