VacancySoft Insights March 2026

The UK telecoms sector entered 2026 on a firmer footing, supported by sustained infrastructure investment and a shift towards more complex, technology-led networks. Vacancy data for January and February shows engineering roles tracking ahead of the same period last year, pointing to a stronger start than in 2025.

This reflects a structural shift rather than a short-term rebound. The UK’s gigabit broadband rollout has now surpassed 90% coverage, marking a key milestone in national connectivity. As deployment moves into later stages, the focus is changing from expansion to optimisation and maintenance. This transition is driving demand for engineers who can support and operate existing networks, not just build new ones.

Field Services Engineers remain central to this phase, accounting for 23% of engineering roles since early 2025. Their prominence reflects the ongoing need for practical, site-based expertise as networks scale and mature. With Project Gigabit continuing to extend coverage, particularly into harder-to-reach areas, demand for these roles is expected to remain strong through 2026.

At the same time, technological change is reshaping how infrastructure is delivered. The growing use of AI and satellite data is changing planning and design processes. Openreach’s partnership with Google Cloud, for example, uses digital twin technology to identify where fibre can be deployed more efficiently.

This is not reducing demand for engineers. Instead, it is shifting it. As planning becomes more automated, resources are being redirected towards execution. In practice, this increases pressure on delivery teams, particularly where investment is focused on the highest-value projects.

Satellite technology is also becoming more relevant. Ofcom’s consultation on Starlink gateway stations, alongside partnerships between major operators and satellite providers, points to a more integrated communications network. As fixed broadband approaches saturation in urban areas, satellite solutions are likely to play a larger role in addressing the final gaps in coverage.

Cybersecurity is another area of growing demand. The proposed Cyber Security and Resilience Bill is expected to tighten reporting obligations and expand regulatory scope, increasing the need for IT security professionals. This demand is increasingly regional, reflecting the spread of infrastructure beyond traditional hubs.

Alongside engineering and security, change and transformation roles are also expanding. Vacancy levels in this area have been rising steadily, with 2025 tracking above 2024 and early 2026 continuing the trend. This is being driven by structural shifts, including the PSTN switch-off planned for 2027, 3G decommissioning and regulatory changes shaping the next phase of the sector.

However, vacancy growth does not necessarily equate to completed hires. Employers remain cautious, balancing long-term investment with cost control. As a result, recruitment processes are often slower and more selective, and not all roles translate into immediate placements.

Looking ahead, 2026 is likely to see continued demand, supported by strong investment pipelines and ongoing infrastructure programmes. The key shift lies in the type of roles being created. Employers are increasingly looking for skill sets that combine engineering expertise with digital and data capabilities.

For employers, the challenge is no longer generating demand, but securing the right talent. As competition for experienced professionals intensifies, those able to move quickly and align hiring strategies with technical requirements will be best placed to convert demand into hires.

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Please contact the Telecoms Team
Anya Brown – [email protected]
Richard Giles – [email protected]
Murray West – [email protected]
Efthymios Antoniadis – [email protected]

About Fuel Recruitment
Fuel Recruitment is a technical recruitment consultancy with 20+ years
of experience in telecoms. We specialise in placing expert professionals
across engineering, delivery, and digital transformation roles.