Navigating the fast-paced world of technology requires constant adaptation and a willingness to embrace change. With AI and digital transformation reshaping industries, staying ahead of emerging trends is more crucial than ever. LinkedIn’s 2025 “Jobs on the Rise” report highlights the fastest-growing roles across various sectors, offering insights into the skills and opportunities shaping the future. For women in tech, these roles represent exciting prospects to step into high-demand positions and drive innovation.
What are the top tech jobs in the UK for 2025?
In this article, we focus on the top UK Tech jobs for 2025 from LinkedIn’s list, examining why they matter, the skills needed, and how women can seize these opportunities. It’s worth noting that this list isn’t exhaustive; tech is a growing industry and offers lots of exciting opportunities for women worldwide.
1. Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Current gender split: 18% female; 82% male
Coming first in the list this year, Artificial Intelligence Engineers are at the forefront of technology, designing and building AI models and systems that power everything from self-driving cars to personalised recommendations. As the demand for AI-driven solutions grows across industries like healthcare, finance, retail and entertainment, this role is becoming one of the most sought-after in tech. For women looking to enter a cutting-edge field, AI engineering offers exciting opportunities to shape the future of technology while breaking new ground in innovation and diversity.
Key skills needed to be become an AI Engineer
- Solid proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or Java
- Expertise in machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras)
- Strong mathematical and statistical skills
- Understanding of natural language processing and computer vision
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Collaboration and communication skills for cross-functional teamwork
How much experience do you need to be an AI Engineer?
Typically, AI Engineers need 2-5 years of experience in a related field like software engineering, data science or machine learning. Entry-level roles often require a strong academic foundation, whilst senior positions call for hands-on experience with complex AI projects.
Average salary of AI Engineers
The average salary for an AI Engineer varies widely based on location and experience. Globally, the annual salary ranges from £70,000–£110,000 for mid-level positions, with senior roles exceeding £150,000 in some regions. In the UK, early-career AI Engineers typically earn around £50,000–£70,000, while experienced professionals can command six-figure salaries.
2. Data Governance Manager
Current gender split: 41% female; 59% male
Coming fourth in LinkedIn’s list, a Data Governance Manager ensures that an organisation’s data is accurate, secure and properly managed. In a world where data drives decision-making across most industries, this role has become critical for businesses seeking to maintain trust and comply with GDPR regulations. For women looking to lead in a rapidly growing field, data governance offers opportunities to build robust data strategies, and influence organisational policies.
Key skills needed to become a Data Governance Manager
- A deep understanding of data governance frameworks and principles
- Knowledge of data privacy laws and regulations (GDPR, CCPA)
- Proficiency in data management tools such as Collibra or Informatica
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Project management expertise
- Communication and stakeholder management skills to align teams on data strategy
How much experience do you need to be a Data Governance Manager?
Typically, 5–7 years of experience in data management, IT, or compliance is required. Many Data Governance Managers transition from roles such as data analysts, compliance officers, or IT project managers, gaining a deep understanding of both technical and regulatory aspects of data handling.
Average salary of Data Governance Managers
In the UK, the average salary for a Data Governance Manager ranges from £60,000–£90,000, with senior professionals earning upwards of £100,000 in large companies or specialised industries like finance or healthcare.
3. Artificial Intelligence Researcher
Current gender split: 27% female; 73% male
Unsurprisingly, the top spot wasn’t the only place that AI featured in the list; coming in ninth place was Artificial Intelligence Researcher. They focus on developing new AI algorithms and models, conducting experiments, and pushing the boundaries of AI theory to improve machine learning and natural language processing. As industries increasingly rely on AI to solve complex problems, the demand for AI researchers continues to grow. This role offers exciting opportunities for women to contribute to the evolution of AI, with many organisations actively working to ensure diverse and inclusive teams.
Key skills needed to become an AI Researcher
- Expertise in machine learning, deep learning, or reinforcement learning
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and TensorFlow
- Strong understanding of AI algorithms and data structures
- Ability to conduct research, develop hypotheses and analyse results
- Familiarity with neural networks, computer vision, or natural language processing
How much experience do you need to be an AI Researcher?
3-5 years of experience are required for mid-level roles, and researchers often start with a PhD in a relevant field, such as computer science, AI, or data science. While some entry-level positions may be available for those with a strong academic background and internships, most positions at higher levels will expect candidates to have demonstrable research experience or a portfolio of AI-related projects. For senior roles, candidates may have 5-8 years of experience, including leadership in AI research and contributions to published papers or patents.
Average salary of AI Researchers
The average salary for an AI Researcher in the UK typically ranges from £50,000 to £70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. For those in entry-level positions or with less experience (3-5 years), salaries can range between £45,000 and £55,000. Mid-level researchers with 5-8 years of experience can earn between £55,000 and £75,000. Senior-level roles, particularly in specialised fields or with leadership responsibilities, can expect salaries upwards of £80,000 or more.
4. Control Systems Engineer
Current gender split: 10% female; 90% male
A more hands-on technical role, Control Systems Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining control systems that regulate industrial processes, machinery, and equipment. These engineers ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and accurately, often in sectors like manufacturing, robotics, aerospace, and energy. As industries embrace automation and smart technologies, the demand for skilled control systems engineers continues to rise. There are excellent opportunities for women to excel in this field, particularly in leadership and innovative project roles as companies look to diversify their technical teams.
Key skills needed to be become a Control Systems Engineer
- Strong knowledge of control theory and systems, including PID control, feedback loops, and automation protocols
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, MATLAB, or Python
- Expertise in industrial automation tools (e.g., SCADA, PLC programming)
- Ability to design and implement control systems for various applications (e.g., robotics, manufacturing, process control)
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to troubleshoot and optimise system performance
- Knowledge of electrical and mechanical engineering principles
How much experience do you need to be a Control Systems Engineer?
For mid-level roles, candidates typically need 3-5 years of experience. Most control systems engineers begin their careers with a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering, often with practical experience gained through internships or graduate-level projects. With 5-8 years of experience, engineers are typically expected to take on leadership roles or manage complex, large-scale systems. Senior engineers with more than 8 years of experience may be expected to lead engineering teams or spearhead significant system integration projects.
Average salary of Control Systems Engineers
The average salary for a Control Systems Engineer in the UK typically ranges from £40,000 to £55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. For entry-level engineers (0-3 years), salaries are generally between £30,000 and £40,000. Mid-level engineers with 3-5 years of experience can expect to earn between £45,000 and £60,000. Senior engineers with 5-8 years or more can earn anywhere between £60,000 and £75,000, with some roles at leading companies or in high-demand industries exceeding £80,000 annually.
5. Performance Engineer
Current gender split: 17% female; 83% male
Performance Engineers focus on optimising the speed, efficiency, and scalability of software applications, websites, and IT infrastructure. They work to ensure that systems can handle peak loads and perform at their best under various conditions. This role is essential in industries like tech, finance, gaming, and telecommunications, where performance and uptime are critical. With the rapid growth of digital transformation, there is a rising demand for performance engineers, and the field offers numerous opportunities for women to advance into senior technical and leadership roles.
Key skills needed to be a Performance Engineer
- Expertise in performance testing tools (e.g., LoadRunner, JMeter, or Gatling)
- Strong understanding of software architecture, databases, and networking
- Experience with performance monitoring and tuning of applications and servers
- Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python, Bash, or Perl
- Knowledge of cloud platforms and containerization (e.g., AWS, Docker, Kubernetes)
- Strong problem-solving skills to diagnose bottlenecks and optimise performance
How much experience do you need to be a Performance Engineer?
For mid-level roles, candidates typically require 2-4 years of experience in software engineering or QA testing. With 4-6 years of experience, they are expected to work on more complex systems and lead optimisation projects. Senior Performance Engineers with over 6 years of experience are usually expected to lead performance strategy and work across multiple teams to improve overall system performance.
Average salary of Performance Engineers
The average salary for a Performance Engineer in the UK ranges from £40,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on experience and industry. Entry-level positions (0-2 years) typically offer salaries between £30,000 and £40,000. Mid-level engineers (3-5 years) can earn between £45,000 and £55,000. Senior engineers with over 5 years of experience can expect to earn between £55,000 and £70,000, with top earners in high-demand industries making upwards of £75,000 annually.
6. Quantitative Researcher
Current gender split: 20% female; 80% male
Quantitative Researchers, often found in finance, tech, and academic research, specialise in applying mathematical models and statistical techniques to analyse and predict complex data. They typically work with large datasets to identify patterns, optimise strategies, and inform decisions. As industries continue to rely on data-driven insights, Quantitative Researchers are increasingly in demand, especially in fields such as algorithmic trading, data science, and machine learning. Women in tech have the opportunity to lead innovations in this space, particularly with the growing interest in data science and AI-driven solutions.
Key skills needed to be a Quantitative Researcher
- Strong proficiency in mathematical modeling and statistical analysis
- Expertise in programming languages such as Python, R, C++, or MATLAB
- Experience with machine learning algorithms and data mining techniques
- Knowledge of financial markets, risk management, or other industry-specific domains
- Advanced data analysis skills, including the use of big data tools (e.g., Hadoop, Spark)
- Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
How much experience do you need to be a Quantitative Researcher?
Quantitative Researchers typically need 2-4 years of experience in research, data science, or finance. Many people in this role come from academic backgrounds in mathematics, physics, or computer science, often with experience in statistical research, machine learning, or quantitative finance. With 4-6 years of experience, they may work on more sophisticated models and take on leadership roles. Senior researchers with over 6 years of experience often manage teams, collaborate across departments, and drive innovation in their organisations.
Average Salary of Quantitative Researchers
The average salary for a Quantitative Researcher in the UK typically ranges from £45,000 to £75,000 per year, depending on experience and sector. Entry-level positions (0-2 years) start at around £35,000 to £45,000, while mid-level researchers (3-5 years) earn between £50,000 and £65,000. Senior-level researchers with more than 5 years of experience can expect salaries between £70,000 and £90,000, with roles in high-demand sectors or financial firms offering compensation packages exceeding £100,000.
7. IT Field Engineer
Current gender split: 6% female; 94% male
IT Field Engineers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting IT hardware and software at client sites. They provide technical support, install new systems, and resolve any on-site issues. This role is vital in industries like telecommunications, retail, and manufacturing, where businesses require IT infrastructure support on location. As companies expand their operations and implement new technologies, the demand for IT Field Engineers is growing, offering ample opportunities for women to thrive in customer-facing roles and build long-term technical careers.
Key skills needed to be an IT Field Engineer
- Proficiency in hardware and software installation, configuration, and troubleshooting
- Strong knowledge of networking and IT infrastructure (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls)
- Ability to work with operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS) and various IT tools
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities to resolve technical issues quickly and effectively
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple service requests
How much experience do you need to be an IT Field Engineer?
IT Field Engineers generally need 1-3 years of experience in IT support or a related field, with many candidates starting as help desk technicians or network support specialists. With 3-5 years of experience, engineers typically gain more responsibility and work with more complex systems and client environments. Senior IT Field Engineers with over 5 years of experience are expected to have expertise in a broad range of IT systems and the ability to mentor junior engineers or manage teams.
Average salary of IT Field Engineers
The average salary for an IT Field Engineer in the UK ranges from £30,000 to £45,000 per year. Entry-level positions (0-2 years) typically offer salaries of £25,000 to £30,000. Mid-level engineers (3-5 years) can earn between £35,000 and £45,000. Senior IT Field Engineers with 5+ years of experience can earn between £45,000 and £55,000, with some roles in specialised industries offering higher pay or additional bonuses.
