What the automotive job market looks like in Manchester

Intro

Manchester continues to be one of the strongest areas in the UK for automotive jobs. With a large number of main dealers, independent garages, and specialist workshops, demand for skilled people across the motor trade remains high.

The city’s growth, transport links, and relatively affordable living costs compared to the South have all helped keep the job market active.

Current demand in Manchester

Across Greater Manchester, we’re seeing consistent demand for experienced Vehicle Technicians, Service Advisors, and Workshop Controllers. Many employers are focused on long-term hires rather than short-term fixes, which is creating more stable opportunities.

Technicians with diagnostics experience, EV training, or main dealer backgrounds are particularly sought after, and competition for these candidates remains strong.

Average salaries and earnings

Salaries in the Manchester area have continued to rise due to the ongoing skills shortage.

As a general guide:

• Vehicle Technicians can expect strong basic salaries with overtime and bonus structures often available

• Service Advisors with experience are seeing competitive packages, particularly within main dealer environments

• Senior or diagnostic technicians are often able to command higher salaries due to demand

This makes Manchester an attractive area for skilled candidates looking to progress while maintaining a good work-life balance.

Living in and around Manchester

One of Manchester’s advantages is affordability compared to other major UK cities. Average house prices remain lower than in London and the South East, while offering access to a wide range of suburbs and commuter towns.

Areas such as Stockport, Bury, Bolton, and Salford are popular with automotive professionals, offering reasonable commuting times and a good mix of housing options.

Transport and commuting

Manchester benefits from strong transport links, including:

• The Metrolink tram system covering large parts of Greater Manchester

• Major motorway access via the M60, M62, and M56

• Direct rail links across the North West

These links make it easier for candidates to commute and for employers to attract people from a wider catchment area.

What this means for candidates

For candidates, Manchester offers choice, progression, and flexibility. Skilled professionals often have multiple options available, allowing them to look beyond salary alone and consider location, hours, and career development.

If you’re considering a move within the Manchester area, you can view our latest permanent automotive jobs here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/jobs

What this means for employers

For employers, the competitive market means speed and clarity are key. Candidates expect realistic salary ranges, clear job details, and an efficient recruitment process.

Employers can also view live candidate profiles to see who is currently available in the market here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/employers/candidate-profile-search

For a confidential discussion about hiring in the Manchester area, you can contact us directly here:
https://www.cb-recruitment.co.uk/cm/contact-us

Final thoughts

The automotive job market in Manchester remains competitive but full of opportunity. Strong transport links, rising salaries, and relatively affordable living costs continue to attract skilled professionals to the area.

At C&B Recruitment, we specialise in permanent motor trade jobs and automotive jobs, supporting employers and candidates through specialist motor trade recruitment and automotive recruitment across the UK.