As Manchester’s economy grows and diversifies, the skills landscape is changing fast. Knowing the in-demand skills for 2025 is vital for job seekers wanting to stay ahead and employers looking to build teams that are ready for the future. Whether you’re just starting out, thinking of a career change, or recruiting in Greater Manchester, this guide spotlights the most sought-after skills, current trends, and local opportunities for upskilling.
The Changing Face of the Manchester Job Market
Manchester has a rich history as a hub of industry and innovation. From its iconic textile mills to its emergence as a tech and digital hotspot, the city’s economy is a testament to its adaptability and drive.
In 2025, Greater Manchester workforce skills trends are shaped by:
- Digital transformation across all sectors
- The green economy and sustainability-led roles
- A growing health and social care demand
- The region’s strong creative and media industry
- The persistent Manchester tech skills shortage
As more companies offer hybrid or remote roles and large infrastructure projects get underway, the job market is rich with opportunities, but only for those with the right skills.
Top Industries and Roles Hiring in Manchester in 2025
🖥️ Tech and Digital
Despite years of growth, Manchester still faces a tech skills shortage. Demand is exceptionally high for:
- Software developers and engineers
- Cybersecurity specialists
- Data analysts and AI specialists
- Cloud infrastructure experts
Tech firms in MediaCityUK, Manchester Science Park, and the Northern Quarter continue to scale, creating a wave of vacancies for those with digital expertise.
Hot tip: Coding bootcamps and short online certifications in Python, cloud services (AWS/Azure), and data science are popular upskilling opportunities in Manchester.
🏥 Health and Social Care
Greater Manchester’s integrated health system creates ongoing demand for:
- Nurses and healthcare assistants
- Mental health practitioners
- Support workers
- Care coordinators
These roles are bolstered by government support and local NHS recruitment campaigns.
🌱 Green Economy and Sustainability
The push for carbon neutrality by 2038 has accelerated demand for:
- Environmental consultants
- Sustainability officers
- Renewables engineers
- Green construction specialists
Upskilling into sustainability roles is now a major focus of Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) skills initiatives.
🏗️ Construction and Infrastructure
Major transport projects like HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail are driving recruitment for:
- Civil engineers
- Project managers
- Skilled tradespeople (electricians, plumbers, etc.)
The challenge here is ensuring a steady pipeline of trained workers, especially from apprenticeship routes.
🎨 Creative and Media
Manchester’s creative scene, led by the BBC and ITV, demands:
- Content creators and editors
- Graphic designers
- Social media managers
- Film and TV production crew
Digital marketing and video content creation are particularly in demand from startups and agencies.
Tips for Job Seekers in Manchester
To compete in the evolving Manchester job market, here are key actions to take:
- 🔍 Research trends: Use resources like GMACS and LinkedIn job insights to understand sector growth.
- 📚 Upskill regularly: Free and low-cost courses are available via FutureLearn, Coursera, and local colleges.
- 🧠 Embrace digital literacy: Even non-tech roles increasingly require digital skills.
- 🤝 Network locally: Attend events at Manchester Digital, The Growth Company, or local business hubs.
- 📄 Tailor your CV: Highlight achievements, soft skills, and relevant training clearly.
- 🎯 Target growth sectors: Focus your job search on sectors with strong 2025 demand.
How Employers Can Attract and Retain Talent in Manchester
With competition for top talent increasing, Manchester employers need to be proactive:
- 💼 Offer flexible working: Hybrid and remote options are now expected by many candidates.
- 🎓 Invest in training: Provide clear upskilling paths to attract those looking to grow.
- 🌍 Support diversity and inclusion: Manchester’s workforce is multicultural; create an inclusive culture.
- 🏆 Promote your purpose: Especially among younger workers, values-driven organisations are highly attractive.
- 🤝 Partner with local schemes: Engage with apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and return-to-work initiatives.
Local Resources and Upskilling Opportunities in Manchester
For job seekers looking to sharpen their skillset or change direction, Manchester offers excellent support:
- The Growth Company – Training, apprenticeships, and career advice across Greater Manchester
👉 growthco.uk - GMACS (Greater Manchester Apprenticeship & Careers Service) – Targeted support for young people
👉 gmacs.co.uk - Manchester Digital Skills Festival – Annual event bringing together employers and job seekers
👉 manchesterdigital.com - Code Nation, Northcoders, and Generation UK – Bootcamps with proven tech training outcomes
👉 wearecodenation.com
👉 northcoders.com
👉 uk.generation.org
Jobsinmcr.co.uk also regularly features roles with training opportunities built in. 🔗 Browse entry-level and graduate roles here!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most in-demand skills in Manchester in 2025?
In 2025, Manchester in-demand skills include software development, data analysis, cloud computing, digital marketing, healthcare, sustainability, and skilled trades in construction.
Where can I find free or low-cost upskilling opportunities in Manchester?
Try The Growth Company, FutureLearn, and local colleges. Jobsinmcr.co.uk also posts jobs with training options.
Why is there a tech skills shortage in Manchester?
The Manchester tech skills shortage 2025 is driven by rapid digital growth and not enough trained workers. Startups and larger firms alike are competing for a limited talent pool.
How can employers in Manchester attract skilled workers?
Offer competitive salaries, remote/hybrid options, professional development, and a strong employer brand focused on purpose and inclusion.
Which sectors are growing fastest in Greater Manchester?
Tech, health and care, green energy, construction, and creative media are leading the way in Greater Manchester workforce skills trends.
Explore the Future of Work with Jobsinmcr.co.uk
Whether you’re ready to take your next career step or looking to build your team, staying ahead of the Manchester in-demand skills curve is key.
