Which Engineering Field Pays The Most In The UK?
In 2025, Software Engineers and Photonics/Optics Specialists top the UK engineering salary charts.
That said, skilled professionals in Electronics, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Engineering are also earning strong salaries, especially in sectors like AI, defense, renewables, and EVs.
2025 UK Engineering Salaries by Discipline
| Engineering Field | Average Salary | Senior/High-End Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineering | £49,000 – £58,000 | Up to £140,000 (Big Tech, AI/ML) |
| Photonics / Optics | £37,000 – £90,000 | Up to £110,000 (London, Defense) |
| Electronics Engineering | £45,000 – £65,000 | £75,000+ in embedded/IoT/defense |
| Mechanical Engineering | £41,000 – £60,000 | £70,000+ in specialist sectors |
| Manufacturing / Lean | £38,000 – £55,000 | Up to £65,000 in leadership |
What's Driving High Salaries?
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Software Engineers are in demand for AI, machine learning, and robotics roles.
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Photonics/Optics Engineers are seeing demand spike in defense, sensing, and laser systems.
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Electronics Engineers are vital in everything from embedded systems to EVs and smart devices.
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Mechanical Engineers are being pulled into renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and EV design.
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Manufacturing Engineers with lean and automation skills are especially valuable in aerospace and medtech sectors.
Highest-Paying Niche Roles
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AI/ML Software Engineers (£70K base, £100K+ total)
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Photonics Engineers in London (£90K–£110K)
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Embedded Software Engineers (£60K–£75K+)
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Mechatronics / Robotics specialists (£55K–£65K+)
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Senior Mechanical Engineers in EV and aerospace (£65K+)
2025 Market Outlook
Engineering salaries in the UK are being influenced by:
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Growth in AI and automation
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Increased government and private investment in defense & photonics
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The green transition (EVs, renewables)
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Shortages of skilled engineers in software and electronics
Final Takeaway
If you're looking to hire in engineering, or want to benchmark your salary as a candidate, understanding these salary trends is crucial.
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Sources: Business Insider, ERI, LinkedIn Jobs, Reddit UK Engineers Thread, Adzuna, Coursera
