The Best Jobs in Preston You’re Overlooking (And How to Land Them)

Preston.

It’s a city that doesn’t always make the headlines like London or Manchester. But here's the truth: Preston is packed with incredible job opportunities that most people are overlooking.

The city offers a thriving job market across a variety of industries — and if you're only looking at the typical roles, you're missing out on some serious career goldmines.

Here’s the deal: Preston may not have the sky-high living costs of major cities, but it has a growing and diverse job market. Whether you're looking for a stable career or a new opportunity, it’s time to stop ignoring Preston’s hidden gems.

Let’s dive into the top job sectors you should be paying attention to, and how you can land these roles.


1. Tech and Digital Roles in Preston: The New Frontier in Preston

You probably think that tech jobs are reserved for places like London or Silicon Valley. But guess what? Preston’s tech scene is growing fast. From software development to digital marketing, there’s a surging demand for skilled individuals who can help businesses innovate and thrive.

Don’t believe me? Take a look at companies expanding beyond the traditional tech hubs. They’re starting to realize that they don’t need to be in London to find top-tier talent. Whether it’s startups or established companies moving into Preston, the city is quickly becoming a hub for tech roles.

Pro Tip: Stay ahead of the curve by learning in-demand skills. Don’t wait until you start applying to jobs — start learning now. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Skillshare, and Coursera are goldmines for tech skills like coding, web design, and digital marketing. The sooner you invest in these skills, the sooner you’ll become an attractive candidate in the job market.

Example Roles:

  • Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Software Developer
  • UX/UI Designer
  • Data Analyst

2. Healthcare Jobs In Preston: The Backbone of Preston’s Economy

Preston's healthcare industry is booming, and it’s one of the city’s most reliable sectors. The NHS is one of the largest employers in the area, and they’re always on the lookout for talented professionals to join their teams. From nurses to paramedics to administrative staff, if you’re in the healthcare field, Preston is a place full of opportunity.

The key to landing a healthcare job in Preston is relevant certifications and a passion for helping others. Whether you’re just starting or are looking to level up your career, having specialised skills can set you apart from the competition.

Pro Tip: Enhance your marketability by gaining specialised certifications beyond the basic requirements. For example, if you’re a nurse, look into certifications for advanced care or specific specialties like pediatric or geriatric nursing. These additional skills will make you more valuable to potential employers.

Example Roles:

  • Nurse
  • Paramedic
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Medical Technician

3. Retail and Customer Service Jobs In Preston: Where Ambition Meets Opportunity

I know, retail doesn’t sound like the most exciting option. But hear me out: If you approach retail with the mindset of an entrepreneur, it can be the perfect launchpad for a much larger career. Think about it: retail roles teach you critical transferable skills — team management, customer service, inventory management, and sales strategies — all of which will help you move into higher-paying, more influential roles.

Pro Tip: Don’t just do the bare minimum. Treat your role like it’s your own business. Whether you're working in customer service, sales, or store management, make an impact by going above and beyond. By implementing more efficient processes, delivering excellent customer service, and creating systems that streamline operations, you’ll position yourself for promotions or even new career opportunities.

Example Roles:

  • Sales Assistant
  • Store Manager
  • Customer Service Representative
  • Retail Operations Manager

4. Education and Teaching Jobs in Preston: A Secure and Rewarding Path

Teaching remains one of the most stable and rewarding career paths in Preston. The city’s population is growing, and with that comes the continued demand for quality teachers across all educational levels. Whether you’re looking at primary schools, secondary schools, or higher education institutions, teaching is a career that continues to offer job security and growth potential.

Pro Tip: If you’re already in teaching, take the time to ask yourself: What do I need to do to move up the ladder? Consider pursuing extra certifications, specialisations, or leadership roles within your school. Taking on additional responsibilities or seeking professional development will not only increase your job satisfaction but can fast-track you into leadership roles.

Example Roles:

  • Primary School Teacher
  • Secondary School Teacher
  • Special Education Teacher
  • University Lecturer

5. Hospitality and Event Management Jobs In Preston: A Growing Industry in Preston

Preston has seen an uptick in tourism, and with that comes a surge in demand for skilled professionals in hospitality and event management. If you thrive in high-pressure situations, love problem-solving, and are incredibly organised, this industry might be a perfect fit for you. From working in hotels and event venues to coordinating large-scale corporate events or weddings, the hospitality sector is booming.

Pro Tip: Building a network in the hospitality sector is crucial. Attend local networking events, industry conferences, and meetups. The more connections you make, the better chance you have at landing prime roles in this competitive industry.

Example Roles:

  • Hotel Manager
  • Event Coordinator
  • Wedding Planner
  • Conference Center Manager

Preston Is a Hidden Gem Full Of Job Opportunities

Preston is far from the sleepy town many people think it is. It’s an active, thriving city full of opportunities in industries you might not have even considered. Whether you're in tech, healthcare, education, or hospitality, there’s a wide range of career options available to you.

The trick is thinking outside the box. Don’t just apply to the obvious roles. Take the time to explore opportunities in sectors that are growing rapidly in Preston, and equip yourself with the skills that employers are looking for. With the right strategy, your career in Preston could take off faster than you think.

So, stop overlooking Preston, and start looking for those opportunities. If you’re strategic, focused, and proactive, you’ll find that this city is full of possibilities — and it’s waiting for you to take advantage of them.

Explore the best job opportunities in Preston here.