Understanding current construction pay rates is essential whether you're a contractor setting budgets, a worker negotiating wages, or an agency benchmarking rates. This comprehensive guide covers pay rates across all major construction roles in the UK, with a focus on London and the South East where rates tend to be highest.
All rates shown are indicative and based on Hard Hat's placement data across London and the South East. Actual rates may vary depending on project type, employer, location, and individual experience.
General & Skilled Labour Rates
Labour roles form the foundation of every construction project. Rates vary based on card level and experience:
| Role | Hourly | Daily (8hr) | Annual (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Labourer | £13.00 – £15.00 | £104 – £120 | £27k – £31k |
| Skilled Labourer | £14.50 – £17.00 | £116 – £136 | £30k – £35k |
| Traffic Marshal | £12.50 – £14.50 | £100 – £116 | £26k – £30k |
| Banksman | £14.00 – £16.00 | £112 – £128 | £29k – £33k |
| Hoist Operator | £15.00 – £18.00 | £120 – £144 | £31k – £37k |
| Welfare Operative | £12.50 – £14.00 | £100 – £112 | £26k – £29k |
Skilled Trade Rates
Skilled tradespeople command higher rates, particularly in specialist areas where demand outstrips supply:
| Trade | Daily Rate | Annual (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Carpenter (1st/2nd Fix) | £200 – £260 | £42k – £54k |
| Electrician | £200 – £260 | £42k – £54k |
| Plumber | £190 – £240 | £40k – £50k |
| Bricklayer | £220 – £280 | £46k – £58k |
| Dryliner | £180 – £230 | £37k – £48k |
| Painter & Decorator | £170 – £210 | £35k – £44k |
| Plasterer | £180 – £230 | £37k – £48k |
| Steel Fixer | £180 – £230 | £37k – £48k |
| Scaffolder | £200 – £250 | £42k – £52k |
| Roofer | £200 – £250 | £42k – £52k |
| Floor Layer | £170 – £220 | £35k – £46k |
| Fire Stopper | £170 – £220 | £35k – £46k |
Plant Operator Rates
| Operator Role | Daily Rate | Annual (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| 360 Excavator Operator | £180 – £220 | £37k – £46k |
| Forklift Driver | £140 – £170 | £29k – £35k |
| Dumper Driver | £150 – £180 | £31k – £37k |
| Roller Operator | £150 – £180 | £31k – £37k |
| Crane Operator (Tower) | £250 – £350 | £52k – £73k |
Management & Professional Salaries
White collar and management roles are typically recruited on permanent, salaried contracts:
| Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Site Supervisor | £38,000 – £50,000 |
| Site Manager | £50,000 – £70,000 |
| Project Manager | £60,000 – £85,000 |
| Contracts Manager | £65,000 – £90,000 |
| Quantity Surveyor | £45,000 – £70,000 |
| Estimator | £42,000 – £65,000 |
| Design Manager | £55,000 – £80,000 |
| Health & Safety Manager | £45,000 – £65,000 |
Factors That Affect Construction Pay Rates
Several factors influence how much construction workers earn:
- Location — London and the South East command the highest rates due to cost of living and demand
- Experience level — more experienced operatives and those with additional qualifications earn more
- Specialist skills — niche trades like fire stopping and steel fixing attract premium rates due to scarcity
- Project type — Tier 1 contractor sites and complex projects tend to pay higher rates
- Market conditions — tight labour markets push rates up; quieter periods may see rates soften
- Overtime and weekend working — many sites offer enhanced rates for overtime and weekend shifts