Discover the easiest jobs to get in the UK, from retail and delivery driving to care work. Learn entry requirements, pay rates, and tips to secure roles fast perfect for students, newcomers, and career changers.
Looking for work in the UK but unsure where to start? Whether you’re a student, a recent arrival, or someone seeking a career pivot, certain industries are crying out for staff often with minimal experience required. This guide highlights the easiest jobs to land in the UK, focusing on high demand sectors, low entry barriers, and practical tips to kickstart your job hunt.
Why Are These Jobs “Easiest” to Get?
Before diving in, let’s clarify what makes a job “easy” to secure:
- High demand: Sectors with persistent staff shortages.
- Low qualifications: Roles requiring no degree or minimal training.
- Flexibility: Part-time, temporary, or gig work options.
- Quick hiring processes: Employers eager to fill gaps fast.
10 Easiest Jobs to Get in the UK
Now, let’s explore the top roles!
1. Retail Assistant
Why it’s easy: Retailers like supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s), high-street chains (Primark, Boots), and department stores are always hiring, especially during holidays or sales seasons.
- Skills needed: Customer service, teamwork, basic math’s.
- Average pay: £9–£12 per hour.
- How to apply: Walk into stores with a CV, or search “retail jobs” on Indeed or Total Jobs.
2. Hospitality Staff (Waiters, Baristas, Kitchen Porters)
Why it’s easy: Pubs, cafes, and restaurants face chronic staffing gaps. Chains like Pert A Manger, Starbucks, and Wetherspoons often hire on the spot.
- Skills needed: Friendliness, multitasking, stamina.
- Average pay: £9–£11 per hour + tips.
- Pro tip: Apply in person during off-peak hours (e.g., weekday mornings).
3. Delivery Drive
Why it’s easy: The rise of Amazon, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats has spiked demand for drivers. A valid UK driver’s license is usually the only requirement.
- Skills needed: Safe driving, time management.
- Average pay: £12–£15 per hour (varies with tips and shifts).
- Gig flexibility: Choose your hours with platforms like Stuart or DPD.
4. Warehouse Operative
Why it’s easy: E-commerce giants like Amazon, ASOS, and Ocado need round-the-clock warehouse staff. Many roles offer same-day starts.
- Skills needed: Physical stamina, attention to detail.
- Average pay: £10–£13 per hour (night shifts often pay more).
- How to apply: Agencies like Blue Arrow or Pertemps frequently recruit.
5. Cleaner or Domestic Assistant
Why it’s easy: Cleaning companies, schools, hospitals, and offices constantly seek reliable staff. No formal qualifications needed.
- Skills needed: Reliability, thoroughness.
- Average pay: £9–£12 per hour.
- Pro tip: Check local Facebook groups or platforms like Check trade for immediate openings.
6. Care Assistant
Why it’s easy: The UK’s ageing population has created a care crisis. Many agencies offer free training and fast-track hiring.
- Skills needed: Empathy, patience, basic first aid (training provided).
- Average pay: £10–£13 per hour.
- Where to apply: NHS Jobs, Indeed, or agencies like Hays Healthcare.
7. Customer Service Advisor
Why it’s easy: Call centers and remote customer service roles (e.g., for Sky, BT, or utilities firms) hire an masse. Many provide on the job training.
- Skills needed: Communication, problem-solving.
- Average pay: £18k–£22k annually.
- Bonus: Remote roles are widely available.
- Design Engineer Job
8. Labourer/Construction Helper
Why it’s easy: Construction sites and tradespeople (plumbers, electricians) often need unskilled assistants.
- Skills needed: Physical fitness, willingness to learn.
- Average pay: £10–£14 per hour.
- Pro tip: Register with agencies like Randstad CPE for short-term gigs.
9. Seasonal or Temp Work
Why it’s easy: Seasonal peaks (Christmas, summer tourism, festivals) drive demand for temporary roles in:
- Event staffing (e.g., catering at festivals).
- Farm work (fruit picking, packing).
- Retail Christmas temp roles.
- Average pay: £9–£12 per hour.
- Where to look: Indeed, SeasonalJobs.co.uk.
10. Admin/Receptionist
Why it’s easy: Small businesses, GP surgeries, and hotels often need front-desk staff. Basic IT skills (Microsoft Office) are usually sufficient.
- Skills needed: Organization, communication.
- Average pay: £18k–£21k annually.
- Pro tip: Highlight transferable skills like phone etiquette on your CV.
Tips to Land These Jobs Faster
- Tailor your CV: Focus on relevant skills, even from unpaid roles (e.g., volunteering, babysitting).
- Apply in person: For retail or hospitality, showing initiative can beat online applications.
- Use agencies: Sign up with recruiters like Reed or Manpower for instant access to vacancies.
- Be flexible: Accept evening/weekend shifts to stand out.
- Prepare for quick interviews: Practice answering questions like, “Can you handle busy periods?”
What to Watch Out For
- Scams: Avoid “pay-to-work” schemes. Legitimate employers won’t ask for upfront fees.
- Rights: Ensure you’re paid at least the National Minimum Wage (£10.42/hour for over-23s).
- Contracts: Even temp roles should provide a written agreement.
Final Thoughts
While these jobs are easier to secure, many offer pathways to advancement. For example, starting as a care assistant can lead to nursing qualifications, while warehouse work might evolve into logistics management. Use these roles as stepping stones while you build skills or explore long-term goals.
Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below.
