Jobs in electric vehicles, such as EV technicians, software developers, battery engineers, and charging infrastructure technicians, are in high demand to support the rollout of new products, technologies, and charging networks.

For professionals already in the transport and automotive sector looking to reskill, as well as those seeking to enter a new industry, there are many exciting opportunities and routes to securing electric vehicle jobs in 2026.

How does the EV market look in 2026?

The UK EV market presents strong growth potential for 2026 and beyond. The share of EVs in new car sales is increasing each year, and the charging network has made significant progress in providing access both at home and in public spaces.

However, whether these figures are enough to match the ZEV 2035 targets is debatable. Only 23% of new car sales were electric vehicles in 2025, below the ZEV mandate target for manufacturers, which was set at 28% for 2025. This shortfall has been attributed to a subdued automotive market, influenced by tariffs and wider macroeconomic factors, alongside fluctuating battery costs, which have made EV adoption less affordable than initially projected, compared to petrol and other internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Globally, the EV market is showing great promise. Countries such as Norway, Denmark, and China have high levels of EV adoption. China, in particular, has become a leading producer of EVs on the market, with Chinese brands such as BYD, MG, and JAECOO becoming increasingly common on UK roads. Roughly 30% of EVs sold in the UK are from Chinese-owned companies. Even in the US, where the current administration previously expressed opposition to EV incentives and removed many tax incentives for EVs last year, sales continue to rise year-on-year.

Overall, regardless of whether the UK meets its ZEV targets, the EV industry is set to grow, maintaining strong demand for professionals looking to pursue electric vehicle job opportunities.

What are popular electric vehicle jobs?

In response to increased funding and incentives, thousands of UK jobs in the electric vehicles market are being created. The industry requires professionals in a range of positions, including:

Battery engineers

Battery engineers design, test, and maintain high-voltage battery packs used in EVs. They focus on safety, efficiency, and thermal management. This is a specialist role and remains in high demand as automotive companies compete to improve performance and product range.

EV software developers

Software developers who specialise in EV technology are highly desired professionals. They build and maintain software that controls battery management, autonomous driving, and in-car entertainment systems. As electric vehicles become more advanced, software is only becoming more instrumental in both performance and user experience.

EV technicians

Mechanics and technicians are essential for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining electric vehicles. As EVs differ from traditional ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, specialist training is needed.

EV adoption is rising, which is increasing the demand for EV technicians. However, despite opportunities for professionals in the traditional ICE automotive industry to reskill to EVs, only 24% of UK car technicians have done so. This shortfall could pose significant challenges as EVs become more widespread on UK roads.

EV design engineers

EV design engineers are professionals who develop and create electric vehicles and their key components, such as body frames, batteries, motors, and charging systems.

As more EVs come on the market, car manufacturers are competing to introduce and sell new products, designed and created by EV design engineers.

Charging infrastructure specialists

Another key area of electric vehicle jobs is in charging infrastructure. Professionals in this area are responsible for designing, installing, and managing the EV charging network. In the past decade, charging infrastructure specialists have grown significantly in demand in response to increased investment and government schemes that have sought to build charging infrastructure for EV owners across the UK.

Last year, the UK Government announced £63 million in funding for expanded EV charging networks, including kerbside charging points, public charging stations, and funding for dedicated charging points for NHS ambulance and medical fleets. While demand in this area is expected to remain strong, it may shift from installation to maintenance as infrastructure matures.

How to get a job in electric vehicles?

With the wealth of opportunities open in the EV sector, now is a strong time for professionals to secure electric vehicle jobs and to build their careers. The following are some of the ways that individuals can enter the sector.

Obtain a degree or professional certificate

One of the traditional ways of entering the EV sector would be through formal education. There are now several options, including postgraduate degrees and professional training courses in EV engineering. Depending on individual qualifications and work background, there are a number of routes to take to upskill into electric vehicle jobs.

For professionals who are already experienced technicians, electricians, and mechanics in the automotive industry, IMI offers specific EV training courses that help professionals to reskill into the EV industry.

Explore apprenticeships

Individuals seeking a more practical route may consider apprenticeships. This option provides hands-on experience, with apprenticeships being available for roles such as EV technicians and charging point installers.

Recently, the UK Government allotted £1 billion for the creation of new “Apprenticeship Units” that will offer shorter-term apprenticeships for young people intended to fill urgent skills gaps, such as in EV charging installation and maintenance.

Gain sector-specific experience

For roles where specific training isn’t needed, such as software developers and back-office functions, including sales and marketing, gaining a job in electric vehicles involves applying for work in the sector and building experience over time. By doing so, professionals can gain sector-specific experience and specialise in an exciting forward-facing industry.

Network in the industry

Attending networking events can help professionals discover training programmes and work opportunities, as well as build invaluable connections with peers in the industry who can support their job search. Furthermore, joining EV-focused professional groups on LinkedIn and engaging with online forums can also help to open up electric vehicle job opportunities.

Consider global opportunities

As stated earlier, there are exciting opportunities within the global EV market, in China, Norway and elsewhere. For professionals considering jobs in electric vehicles, there are promising roles and opportunities available both in the UK and abroad. As many EV manufacturers operate internationally, professionals have the ability to pursue work in multiple countries and build their transferable skills that can allow them to seek roles internationally.

Key takeaways…

The EV industry is growing rapidly, with opportunities for electric vehicle jobs expanding across the board. Whilst there is some uncertainty whether the UK will meet its EV targets, it is widely considered that electric vehicles are the future of the automotive industry. As a result, professionals who enter the industry are likely to benefit from long-lasting career prospects.

Want to explore electrical vehicle jobs? VIQU Energy is an EV specialist recruitment agency. Click here for our latest opportunities or send in your CV here.