Electronics Engineering Careers in 2025: Your Essential FAQ for UK Job Seekers

The UK electronics industry is evolving faster than ever, and with it, the demand for skilled engineers continues to grow. From embedded systems to hardware design, companies are looking for engineers who can innovate, adapt, and deliver in an increasingly automated and AI-driven landscape.

At Platform Recruitment, we specialise in connecting talented engineers with forward-thinking employers across the UK. Whether you’re starting out, seeking a new challenge, or exploring leadership roles, our expert consultants are here to help you take the next step.

Explore our Live Roles or learn how we support employers through our Solutions.

Here’s everything you need to know about navigating a career in electronics engineering in 2025 - including salary trends, skills in demand, and how to stand out in a competitive market.

1. What’s the job outlook for electronics engineers in 2025?

The UK still faces an annual shortfall of over 59,000 engineers and electronics roles are among the hardest to fill. Despite economic headwinds, the electronics engineering sector remains resilient.

Key growth areas include:

• Semiconductor and chip design (fuelled by supply chain localisation efforts)
• Embedded systems and IoT
• Power electronics and renewable energy systems
• Medical device and life sciences hardware
• Automation, robotics, and control systems
   

In short, skilled electronics engineers are still in high demand - especially those who combine hands-on technical expertise with digital literacy and cross-disciplinary thinking.

2. What are the most in-demand skills for electronics engineers?

Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can bridge the gap between hardware and software.

Here are the most sought-after skills in 2025:

• Embedded C/C++ programming for microcontrollers and SoCs
• PCB design using tools such as Altium Designer or KiCad
• Analogue and digital circuit design
• FPGA design and verification (VHDL/Verilog)
• Signal processing and power management
• IoT integration and sensor networking
• Prototyping and testing (lab instrumentation)
• Knowledge of safety and compliance standards (ISO, IEC, EMC/EMI)
• Python or MATLAB for data analysis and simulation
   

Tip: Candidates who can demonstrate experience with both firmware and hardware are particularly valued, as companies seek engineers who can work across the full product lifecycle.

3. What salary can electronics engineers expect in 2025?

Salaries remain competitive, particularly for engineers with specialist or cross-functional experience.

Here’s what UK electronics engineers can expect in 2025:

Note: Salaries tend to be higher in the South East, Cambridge, and Bristol — key technology hubs for electronics and embedded development.

4. What regions in the UK offer the most electronics roles?

Electronics engineering roles are spread across the country, but certain areas stand out for their innovation clusters and R&D investment:

• Cambridge: “Silicon Fen” is home to cutting-edge semiconductor, IoT, and medical device firms.
• Bristol & Bath: A growing centre for embedded systems, defence tech, and chip design.
• Manchester: Fast-emerging in electronics manufacturing and automation.
• Scotland (Edinburgh & Glasgow): Strong in photonics, sensors, and renewable energy systems.
• Midlands: Known for automotive electronics and industrial control systems.
   

Platform Recruitment partners with clients in all these regions, helping engineers find opportunities aligned with their skillsets and ambitions.

5. What are employers looking for beyond technical skills?

In 2025, employers value more than just engineering excellence; they want well-rounded professionals who can communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve creatively.

Top “soft” skills electronics employers seek include:

• Analytical thinking and innovation
• Communication and teamwork across departments
• Adaptability in agile and hybrid environments
• Attention to detail in design and documentation
• Project ownership and accountability
   

Employers also look for engineers who show curiosity; those who follow emerging tech trends like AI hardware, EV electronics, or IoT security stand out in interviews.

6. What should candidates expect in the interview process?

Technical interviews remain a staple of electronics recruitment, but the format is evolving.

You can typically expect:

• A technical test or take-home task (e.g. schematic review or firmware logic problem)
• A practical discussion around your past projects and decision-making process
• Questions on problem-solving, debugging, and teamwork
• For senior roles, scenario-based discussions around leadership, delivery, and risk management
   

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and keep them concise but impactful.
 

7. How can electronics engineers stand out when applying?

The market is competitive, but preparation and positioning make all the difference:

• Tailor your CV to each role - highlight project outcomes, not just responsibilities.
• Showcase measurable results (e.g. “Reduced PCB cost by 15%”).
• Include technical tools, languages, and certifications.
• Build a professional LinkedIn presence - recruiters increasingly search for talent online.
• Partner with a specialist recruiter like Platform Recruitment for targeted introductions and feedback.

8. What emerging technologies should engineers pay attention to?

Electronics engineers who embrace new technology trends are best positioned for long-term success. Keep an eye on:

• AI and edge computing hardware
• EV power electronics and battery management systems
• 5G/6G communication systems
• Sustainable electronics manufacturing
• Medical and wearable tech innovation
   

These fields are fuelling demand for hybrid hardware-software expertise and rapid prototyping skills.

9. Should electronics engineers consider contract roles?

Absolutely - contract and interim roles offer great exposure and flexibility. Many engineers use contracting to:

• Build experience across industries
• Boost their earnings
• Work on cutting-edge technologies
• Maintain autonomy and work-life balance
   

Platform Recruitment regularly supports both permanent and contract placements across the electronics and embedded sectors, giving engineers freedom to shape their careers.

10. How can Platform Recruitment help electronics engineers and employers?

At Platform, we’ve been recruiting in the electronics sector for over 15 years, working with start-ups, scale-ups, and global manufacturers across the UK.

For engineers, we:

• Match you with companies that fit your values and technical strengths
• Provide interview guidance and salary benchmarking
• Offer advice on relocation, hybrid working, and market trends
   

For employers, we:

• Deliver specialist recruitment in Electronics, Embedded Systems, and Hardware Design
• Help shape hiring strategies in a competitive market
• Provide insights on salary expectations and candidate availability
   

Explore our Live Roles or see how our tailored Solutions can help you hire and grow effectively.

Powering the Future of Electronics Engineering

The UK’s electronics sector remains a powerhouse for innovation, from medical devices to renewable technologies. Engineers who stay adaptable, invest in emerging skills, and work with trusted recruitment partners will continue to thrive in 2025 and beyond.

At Platform Recruitment, we connect brilliant engineers with the companies shaping tomorrow’s technology. Whether you’re designing, testing, or leading, we’re here to help you take the next step in your career or build a team that can.