Alexander Mae

We have a lot candidate ask us what the job market is like, there is always a lot of negative news so if you’ve been job hunting (or hiring) in Bristol recently, here is our thoughts on looking and recruiting in Bristol at the moment.

There are absolutely jobs in Bristol — just not everywhere

The biggest myth right now is that the market is very quiet and there aren’t many jobs.  That’s not quite true.  Here are our thoughts:

• Some sectors are busy and growing
• Others are much slower, or being extra cautious
• Employers are taking longer to make decisions
• In Bristol, we’re still seeing steady demand in areas such as Tech and digital, Green energy and sustainability, Construction, engineering, and infrastructure and professional services

But employers are being more selective. Fewer “nice to have” hires, more “we really need this role filled properly”.

Competition is higher,  even for good candidates

One of the biggest changes we’re seeing is more applicants per role.  What does this mean for you if you are the job seeker?

• Good candidates are still getting interviews
• But great CVs don’t guarantee offers anymore
• Small things (interview prep, attitude, salary expectations) matter more
• This can be frustrating if you’re used to things moving quickly, but it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Some candidates are still aiming for London-level salaries while wanting Bristol-based or fully remote roles — and that’s where things can stall.

In 2026:

• Salaries are holding steady in most sectors
• Big jumps are harder unless you’re moving for a clear step up
• Flexibility, progression, and culture in many occasions can matter more to a someone looking for a new role
• The strongest candidates are the ones who stay open-minded and realistic.
• Hybrid working is still the most popular with candidates.  Hybrid working hasn’t gone anywhere — but it has evolved.
• Most Bristol employers now expect some office presence (often 1–3 days a week), flexibility rather than fully remote guarantees, people who actually want to be part of a team
• Roles advertised as fully remote tend to attract huge competition, so they’re often harder to land.
• Employers are moving slower right now (it’s not you, it’s the current market)

If it feels like hiring processes are dragging on… you’re not imagining it.

We’re seeing:

• More interview stages
• Longer gaps between feedback
• More internal sign-off before offers are made

It’s frustrating, but it’s also part of a more cautious market.

So… is Bristol still a good place to build a career?  Absolutely yes!

What does Bristol continue to offer candidates?

• Strong career opportunities without London burnout
• A great mix of industries
• A community feel that people genuinely value
• Employers who care about culture, not just CVs

The key difference in 2026 is the market rewards preparation, flexibility, and realism more than ever.

We love what we do, recruiting great candidates for fantastic employers, looking for the next step or the next team member – get in touch.  [email protected] or 0117 9055035

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