Industry professionals invited to shape the report
UK recruitment and workforce specialist Murray McIntosh has opened its 2026 Water Industry Labour Report survey. Engineers, project managers, design specialists and other water-sector professionals are being invited to contribute to what has become an influential annual benchmark of workforce conditions.
Previous editions have repeatedly highlighted persistent skills shortages, difficulties retaining staff, limited career progression and a workforce ageing faster than it is being replenished.
AMP8 intensifies demand for skilled workers
The survey comes during AMP8, the current five-year UK water industry investment cycle. With £104 billion being directed into infrastructure upgrades, demand for skilled labour is increasing across engineering, design, construction and project delivery.
Employers are likely to face greater competition for a limited pool of experienced specialists as investment continues to flow through the sector.
Wellbeing and AI enter the workforce discussion
This year's survey expands its scope with new questions about workforce wellbeing and the potential role of artificial intelligence in reducing productivity and resourcing pressures across water infrastructure delivery.
According to Murray McIntosh director Adam Cave, the report has become an important platform for the people delivering the UK's water infrastructure programmes. Previous editions have also influenced industry workforce strategy, giving the 2026 findings particular relevance for employers planning recruitment and retention over the coming years.
Source: Water Magazine — Water industry voices sought to shape next landmark workforce report
Published: 7 September 2026
