Highest Paying Flooring & Construction Jobs – How Much Can You Earn?

If you work with floors, walls or any part of a building, you probably wonder which jobs pay the most. The good news is there are several roles that bring a solid paycheck while still letting you stay on a site or in a showroom. Below we break down the top‑earning positions, the typical salary ranges, and the steps you need to take to land them.

Top Paying Roles in the UK Construction & Flooring Market

Project Manager – This is the person who keeps a whole build on schedule and budget. In the UK a construction project manager can earn between £55,000 and £90,000 a year, with senior managers reaching over £100,000. A degree in construction management or a related field, plus several years of site experience, is usually required.

Construction Estimator – Estimators calculate how much a project will cost before the work starts. They often make £45,000 to £80,000, and specialist estimators for large commercial jobs can earn more than £100,000. Strong maths skills, knowledge of material costs, and a background in surveying help you get this job.

Site Manager / Site Supervisor – The site manager makes sure daily work runs smoothly. Salaries range from £40,000 to £70,000, with larger sites pushing the figure higher. You need a solid track record of on‑site leadership and sometimes a NVQ Level 6 in construction.

Specialist Flooring Installer – Installing engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank or stone tiles requires skill. Senior installers can earn £35,000 to £55,000, and those who run their own crew or company can make well over £70,000. Certifications from manufacturers and a portfolio of completed projects are key.

Sales & Business Development Manager (Flooring) – These professionals sell flooring solutions to architects, developers and homeowners. Earnings combine a base of £30,000‑£45,000 with commissions that can push total income past £80,000. Good communication, product knowledge and a sales track record win this role.

How to Boost Your Earnings Quickly

First, focus on a skill that’s in high demand. Right now, sustainable flooring and low‑VOC (volatile organic compound) products are hot, so getting certified in these areas can add £5,000‑£10,000 to your salary.

Second, aim for qualifications that employers value. A CIPS (Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply) procurement certificate, for example, helps estimators negotiate better prices and earn more.

Third, look for opportunities to move into management. Even if you start as an installer, taking on small team‑lead responsibilities shows you’re ready for a site‑supervisor role, which comes with a pay jump.

Finally, consider freelance or contract work. Many high‑paying projects hire contractors for short bursts, and rates can be 20‑30% higher than permanent salaries. Just make sure you have the insurance and legal paperwork in place.

Remember, the highest paying job isn’t always the one with the biggest title. A well‑paid specialist role with years of experience can sometimes out‑earn a manager who’s still building their expertise. Choose a path that matches your interests, invest in the right training, and you’ll see your earnings grow faster than you expect.

Ready to start? Take a look at the job listings on our site, sign up for a free skills assessment, and see which of these high‑paying roles fits your background. With the right moves, you could be earning the top salary in flooring and construction within a few years.