The 3 Industries in Preston Hiring Like Crazy Right Now

Let’s cut to the chase. If you want a high-paying, future-proof job in Preston, you need to go where the demand is. The old-school method of sending 100+ applications and waiting? That’s a recipe for frustration.

Instead, let’s focus on industries that are actively hiring right now. Get in early, learn the right skills, and you’ll have companies competing for YOU—not the other way around.

Industry #1: Tech & Digital (High Demand, High Pay, Remote-Friendly)

Why it’s booming:
Preston might not be London, but the tech industry is exploding here. More businesses are going digital, which means they need web developers, IT support, and cybersecurity pros. Local companies AND remote-first businesses are hiring for these roles.

In-demand jobs:

  • Software Developer (£30K–£50K+)
  • IT Support (£25K–£40K)
  • Digital Marketing Specialist (£28K–£45K)
  • Cybersecurity Analyst (£40K–£60K)

How to break in FAST:

  • No degree? No problem. Learn coding, digital marketing, or cybersecurity online (Google Digital Garage and Coursera have free courses).
  • Network smartly. Preston has a growing tech scene—attend events at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) and local co-working spaces like Society1.
  • Apply to local companies that NEED tech talent but aren’t flooded with applicants (e.g., small businesses and agencies).

Industry #2: Health & Social Care (Stable, Growing, Essential)

Why it’s booming:
With an aging population and increasing healthcare needs, this sector is growing FAST. The NHS, private care homes, and home care services in Preston are all desperate for staff. If you want stability and meaningful work, this is it.

In-demand jobs:

  • Nurse (£30K–£45K)
  • Care Assistant (£22K–£28K)
  • Mental Health Support Worker (£25K–£35K)
  • Physiotherapist (£35K–£50K)

How to break in FAST:

  • Get certified quickly. Many care roles require minimal training (which you can complete in weeks).
  • Look beyond hospitals. Care homes, mental health charities, and home care services are hiring constantly.
  • Check NHS and local job boards like PrestonJobs—they post new opportunities every single day.

Industry #3: Logistics & Warehousing (Huge Demand, Immediate Openings)

Why it’s booming:
Thanks to online shopping, warehouses and delivery companies can’t hire fast enough. Big brands like Amazon, Royal Mail, and major supermarket chains are all expanding in Preston.

In-demand jobs:

  • Warehouse Operative (£22K–£30K)
  • HGV Driver (£35K–£50K)
  • Supply Chain Coordinator (£28K–£40K)
  • Delivery Driver (£25K–£35K)

How to break in FAST:

  • HGV drivers are making BANK. A short training course can unlock salaries of £40K+!
  • No experience? Apply anyway. Many companies provide on-the-job training.
  • Go direct to employers. Instead of job boards, visit warehouses and delivery hubs to ask about openings in person—this works.

Final Takeaway: Apply Smarter, Not Harder

Most people waste months applying to jobs that aren’t hiring. The smartest job seekers go where the demand is. Preston’s fastest-growing industries—Tech, Healthcare, and Logistics—are actively hiring and will only grow in the next 5-10 years.

If you’re serious about future-proofing your career, pick an industry, learn the skills, and start networking. The best jobs aren’t just given to the best candidates—they go to the people who know how to play the game.

Check out the latest jobs here.