Careers in STEM: Technology, Science and Engineering Pathways
- Career blog
- Jul 30
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 25
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work in tech, science or engineering? The sectors of technology, science and engineering (TSE) are among the most dynamic and rapidly changing in the UK – and offer some of the most exciting and future-proof career opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll explore what TSE careers involve, the skills employers are looking for, typical salary ranges, and how you can begin your journey with work experience and training opportunities through Futures For All.
What Are Tech, Science and Engineering Careers?
Careers in tech, science and engineering range from designing software and hardware to researching new materials, working on infrastructure and building systems for clean energy. These fields are built on innovation, problem-solving and shaping the world of tomorrow.
If you enjoy analysing data, working with machines, creating new solutions or understanding how things work – then a career in TSE could be a great fit. Whether it’s developing apps, designing robots, managing large engineering projects or exploring scientific breakthroughs – there are routes for many talents and interests.
Five Facts About Tech, Science and Engineering Careers?
Massive Employment Sector: In 2023 the UK had approximately 9.4 million STEM workers, covering science, technology, engineering and mathematics–related roles.
High Salary Growth: For example, median salaries in UK tech and engineering roles (2023) include; programmers £51,714, engineering professionals £47,560.
Skill Shortages and Opportunities: Many engineering and tech employers report difficulty filling roles; indicating strong opportunity for new entrants.
Fast‐Growing Sector: The UK’s engineering and technology workforce is around 6.4 million people – about 19% of the total UK workforce.
Diverse Career Pathways: From software development and robotics to renewable tech, data science and infrastructure engineering –TSE roles offer a wide variety of pathways and specialisms.
Key Career Areas in Sports, Travel and Hospitality Careers
Software, Systems & Digital Technology
Roles include software developer, cybersecurity analyst, systems architect, data engineer or UX designer.
In a world that’s increasingly digital, these roles power everything from apps and games to cyber-security defences and data-driven decisions. Creativity, logic and coding come together.
Engineering and Infrastructure
Roles might be civil engineer, mechanical engineer, structural engineer, robotics engineer or network engineer.
Infrastructure and engineering roles build the physical and mechanical systems that support our society – the roads, energy networks, factories, machines and automated systems.
Science and Research-Innovation
Jobs include materials scientist, biotech researcher, environmental scientist, aerospace technologist or lab engineer.
These roles explore the frontier – developing new technologies, materials, medicines or processes. If you love investigation and discovery, this is a key path.
Clean Tech and Sustainability Engineering
Roles include renewables engineer, energy-efficiency consultant, electric vehicle systems designer, carbon-capture specialist.
With the UK aiming for net-zero and greener infrastructure, these roles are increasing fast. Technology and engineering meet climate action.
Automation, Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing
Roles might be robotics engineer, automation specialist, additive-manufacturing technician, AI/machine-learning engineer.
This is the cutting edge – where machines and smart systems get designed, built and programmed. For those intrigued by how machines think and work.
Tech:
Science:
Engineering:
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What Are the Salary Expectations?
Salaries differ widely depending on role, experience and region, but here are some indicative of the salary range you could see in the UK:
Role | Starting Salary | Experienced Salary |
Aerospace Engineer | £27,000 | £60,000 |
Agricultural Engineer | £25,000 | £45,000 |
Archaeologist | £24,000 | £40,000 |
Biologist | £30,000 | £53,000 |
Chemist | £26,000 | £40,000 |
Data Scientist | £32,000 | £82,500 |
Gas Service Technician | £25,000 | £45,000 |
Land Surveyor | £20,000 | £50,000 |
If your dream job isn’t listed over check the National Careers Service to gain a deeper insight.
The Skills You’ll Need for Law, Care and Community Careers
These careers require both soft skills and professional knowledge, since much of the work involves people, emotions, and ethical decision-making.
Core Creative/Professional Skills
Problem-solving & critical thinking – essential for designing, building and innovating.
Communication and teamwork – even technical roles usually work in teams and must explain complex ideas clearly.
Numeracy & data handling – strong maths and statistics underpin many roles.
Digital literacy – from coding and data to CAD and simulation.
Interpersonal skills
Adaptability & resilience – tech and engineering are fast-changing fields.
Initiative & creativity – new problems need new ideas.
Ethical awareness & sustainability mindset – especially in science and engineering roles.
Lifelong learning – new tools and methods emerge constantly.
Technical and Digital Skills
Programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++) or software tools for engineers.
Data analytics, machine-learning or AI fundamentals.
Engineering tools (CAD, 3D modelling, circuit design, robotics platforms).
Understanding of digital systems, automation, IoT and smart systems.
Knowledge of sustainability, materials science or systems engineering for specialist roles.
Work Experience in Tech, Science and Engineering: A Case Study
In-person and remote placements with Kainos
Digital technology company, Kainos, worked in close partnership with Futures For All to deliver a total of 36 different work experience opportunities over a 10-month period. Through these programmes, we introduced almost 1,000 young people from 289 state schools and colleges across the UK to careers in coding, software engineering, cyber security, and other technology-related specialisms.
97% of attendees rated their placement either 4 or 5 out of 5 stars.
Lara completed work experience with Kainos and technology solutions company, FinTru – which developed her knowledge of carers in tech, and directly led to an apprenticeship programme and future career.
“In June 2021, I started the first day of my remote work experience with FinTrU… Fast forward to June 2023, and I took part in the same work experience programme, however, this time as an employee at FinTrU.” – Lara, 19, Belfast
How to Start a Career in Tech, Science and Engineering
Explore your interests – Do you enjoy coding, building things, exploring science, or solving mechanical problems?
Build a portfolio or project record – Try coding a small game/app, build a model, run a data project or work on a science experiment.
Gain experience – Look for work placements, apprenticeships, STEM programmes, school clubs (robotics, coding) or small jobs in engineering settings.
Study relevant subjects – Good choices: Maths, Physics, Computer Science, Design & Technology, Engineering, Chemistry.
Stay connected & network – Join STEM clubs, attend open days, talk to engineers/scientists, visit labs or tech firms.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to explore a career in Sports, Travel or Hospitality, check out the Futures For All Work Experience Finder.
Quick answers to your FAQs
Do I need a degree to work in tech, science or engineering?
Not always. Many routes exist: apprenticeships, vocational training, on-the-job learning and degree programmes. What matters is skills, practical experience and a willingness to learn.
What subjects should I study at school?
Strong subjects include Maths, Physics, Computer Science, Chemistry, Design & Technology and Engineering. They give you the foundation for many tech and engineering roles.
What’s the difference between science, tech and engineering careers?
Science is often research- or discovery-based (e.g., chemistry, biology, physics).
Technology focuses on digital systems, software, data and digital services.
Engineering builds, designs and maintains physical systems, infrastructure, machinery and manufacturing.
All three overlap and many careers combine elements of each.
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Find out more about apprenticeships here.
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This blog is a guide, and careers are constantly changing. Please check the National Careers Service website for the latest information and all the qualifications needed, and the GOV.UK website for more on T-levels. For careers advice in all parts of the UK, visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales)
