The most sought-after job in the UK isn’t what I expected. But it highlights what we all probably want
It’s no secret that Britain’s facing some economic headwinds. Companies are tightening their belts, and that means fewer traditional full-time roles. For those of us who’ve embraced freelance, contracting, or fractional work, this could be a double-edged sword. On one hand, uncertainty breeds opportunity. Businesses might be more inclined to hire on a project basis to manage costs. On the other hand, a shrinking job market means more competition for every assignment, project or fractional worker role.
What’s everyone searching for? It turns out our collective curiosity is varied. It’s certainly not what I expected given the UK’s long-drawn-out cost-of-living crisis.
Cabin crew to compliance: the UK’s most searched-for jobs
At the top of the list of the most sought-after jobs, surprisingly, is cabin crew member, pulling in an impressive 12,020 searches a month, according to research carried out by employee benefit app Go Joe.
The company analysed the average monthly search volume over the past 12 months of various terms related to job searches in the UK, such as ‘[job] vacancy’ and ‘[job] jobs’. Those with the highest search volumes have been deemed the most searched-for jobs.
Perhaps we’re all dreaming of escaping to sunnier climes? With base pay ranging from £17,000 to £33,000, it’s a job that appeals to those who value experience and adventure over a massive pay packet. For freelancers, this highlights the appeal of jobs that offer unique lifestyle benefits.
Next in the ranking are studio director (4,820 searches) and pundit (4,410 searches). These roles speak to the desire for creative leadership and expert opinion. Studio directors, with an average salary of £38,265, manage the day-to-day operations of creative spaces, while pundits, earning anything from modest fees to a staggering £395,000 for the big names, share their expertise on various topics. For freelancers, these roles demonstrate the value of niche expertise and strong networking.
The tech and craft divide
Further down the list, we see a fascinating mix of jobs that embrace technology and hands-on skills. Electrical engineers (3,610 searches) and data and compliance managers (2,420 searches) represent the demand for skilled professionals in technical fields. With salaries around £40,463 and a hefty £60,956, respectively, these roles highlight the financial rewards of specialised knowledge.
Meanwhile, ornithologists (3,150 searches), silversmiths (2,520 searches), and naval architects (2,950 searches) demonstrate a strong interest in hands-on, specialised crafts and sciences. These jobs, often requiring years of training and apprenticeship, remind us that passion and skill can still command attention in a digital age. Perhaps many are drawn to these roles because of our over-reliance on technology.
Music makers and efficiency gurus
Those wanting nothing more than to be surrounded by the creative process of making music are still in existence, despite the onset of AI, with 3,110 searches recorded for music manager opportunities. Then there are the ergonomists (2,910 searches) who are obsessed with making companies and employees productive and efficient at their jobs. Music management, with its variable but potentially lucrative salaries, speaks to the entrepreneurial spirit many freelancers embody. Ergonomists, ensuring comfort and safety in various industries, highlight the growing importance of well-being in the workplace.
Even when money is tight, we’re still pursuing our passions
Will Turner, CEO of Go Joe, points out that many of these sought-after jobs are driven by passion, even if the pay isn’t astronomical. For freelancers, this underscores the importance of aligning your skills with your passions.
So, while the UK job market might be facing some turbulence, adaptability and a passion for what you do can help you weather those patchy hiring periods.
Sign up for our FREE newsletter for news, expert views, lifestyle, money and career tips:
