The Hardest Trades & Labour Staff to Hire in 2025 (UK)

As the UK construction industry continues to power through economic challenges and government investment into infrastructure, one issue remains persistent across the board — a shortage of skilled trades and labour workers. In 2025, hiring the right people for the right jobs has become more competitive than ever, with specific roles proving incredibly tough to fill. 

Here’s a rundown of the hardest trades and labour roles to find and hire in 2025 — and why.

1. Bricklayers
The shortage of qualified bricklayers has been ongoing for years, but 2025 sees the gap widening even further. With the housebuilding sector picking up pace again, and major commercial projects breaking ground, demand has skyrocketed. Compounded by an ageing workforce and fewer apprentices entering the trade, bricklayers are now commanding higher wages and multiple job offers at once.

Why they’re hard to find:

• Aging workforce nearing retirement

• Lack of new entrants and apprentices

• Rising housing demand outpacing supply of workers

2. Groundworkers
Groundworkers remain the backbone of any construction site, yet they’re increasingly hard to source — especially those with the right tickets (CSCS, dumper/roller, deep drainage experience). Projects are being held up due to shortages at the foundational stages.

Why they’re hard to find:

• High demand across both residential and infrastructure projects

• Training requirements for specific skillsets

• Regional demand surges (particularly in the South East and Midlands)

3. Steel Fixers
With HS2 and other large-scale infrastructure projects moving ahead, the need for experienced steel fixers is at a high. However, this is a niche trade, and many in the workforce have either left the sector or moved into different roles. Recruiters are now competing with major contractors offering premium rates and long-term contracts.

Why they’re hard to find:

• Specialised skillset not easily transferable

• Not enough training routes or fast-track programmes

• Large infrastructure projects hoovering up available talent

4. Shuttering Carpenters / Formwork Carpenters
Another key role on major civils and infrastructure jobs, shuttering carpenters are in short supply, especially those with experience on high-rise builds, bridges, or tunnelling projects. In 2025, many experienced workers are chasing lucrative overseas contracts, leaving a talent gap locally.

Why they’re hard to find:

• Limited pool of qualified and experienced professionals

• Migration of talent to international markets (e.g., Middle East, Australia)

• Increased demand from Tier 1 contractors

5. Machine Operators (360, Telehandler, Dozer, etc.)
CPCS/NPORS machine operators are consistently in demand, but particularly in early 2025 as site activity rebounds. Experienced plant operators who can work across multiple machines are being snapped up quickly, and rural or remote locations often struggle the most.

Why they’re hard to find:

• High certification and safety compliance requirements

• Regional availability — operators may not travel far

• Competition from logistics and warehousing sectors offering better work/life balance

6. Dryliners & Ceiling Fixers
The finishing trades are also feeling the pinch. With commercial fit-outs, retail refurbishments, and housing interiors booming post-pandemic, dryliners and ceiling fixers are highly sought after — especially those who can work quickly and to a high spec.

Why they’re hard to find:

• High demand on fast turnaround projects

• Quality control and snag-free work essential

• Many workers left the sector during COVID and haven’t returned

What’s Driving the Labour Shortage in 2025?
Several factors are contributing to the ongoing labour crunch:

• Brexit hangover: A continued reduction in available EU labour

• Training lag: Years of underinvestment in apprenticeships and skills

• Ageing workforce: Many skilled tradespeople are retiring with no replacements

• Competing industries: Logistics, warehousing, and infrastructure offer strong alternatives for the same talent pool

• Regional disparity: Some areas are flooded with work, others have less opportunity, creating imbalance

If you’re trying to hire for these tough-to-fill roles in 2025, you’re not alone. The key to success is forward planning, competitive rates, and working with specialist recruiters who understand the market. At Approach Personnel, we’ve got boots on the ground and a deep network across the UK — whether you need a gang of bricklayers next week or a machine op in the middle of nowhere, we know where to find them.

Need help hiring trades and labour in 2025? Get in touch with our team today — we’ll take the pressure off your project and keep your site moving - 0115 900 3171