Skip to content

What could your future look like in the Highlands and Islands?

Huge investment is creating real jobs and opportunities across the region – from energy and construction to engineering, tourism and more.

And there’s a variety of routes you could take after school. You could go to college or university, start an apprenticeship or go straight into work or training.

You don’t need to have everything figured out yet. Start exploring the different industries and job roles to get ideas.

Workforce North web graphic with logo

Energy and renewables

The Highlands and Islands is a key location for renewable energy. Wind, marine and hydrogen projects are growing.

You could help power homes and communities while supporting Scotland’s move to cleaner energy.

Some key roles include electrician, offshore technician and data scientist.

Construction

Roads, housing, ports and infrastructure are being built across the Highlands and Islands to support growing communities and energy projects.

You could play a hands-on role in shaping the places people live and work.

Explore roles like civil engineer, welder and joiner.

Engineering and manufacturing

Engineers are needed to design, build and maintain energy and infrastructure projects across the Highlands and Islands.

There's strong demand for people who enjoy problem-solving and working with technology.

You could work as an electrical engineer, design engineer or quality control technician.

Tourism and hospitality

Tourism is a big part of the Highlands and Islands. Visitors come from around the world to experience the landscapes, wildlife and culture.

Behind every great visitor experience is a team of people making it happen.

Explore roles like chef, hotel manager and tourist guide.

Health and social care

Health and social care services are essential throughout communities, especially in rural and island areas.

There’s strong demand for people to support others and improve wellbeing.

You could make a real difference in your local community as a nurse, care support worker or dentist.

Transport

Transport helps connect remote communities and supports major projects across the Highlands and Islands.

There’s a variety of jobs moving people and goods safely across land, sea and air.

You could work as a large goods vehicle driver, mechanic or town planner.

Support roles across industries

Every industry needs people to help keep things running. Lots of businesses have teams that look after important areas like finance, marketing, administration, HR and data.

You could build skills that let you work across different sectors and projects in the Highlands and Islands.

Explore roles like finance manager, marketing executive or data analyst.