Groundworkers Salary
Median salary £37,849 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £38,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For groundworkers, £37,925 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -3.0% versus the national average. Experienced groundworkers (top 25%) earn over £44,182.
About this role
Groundworkers prepare construction sites by excavating foundations, laying drainage, constructing sub-bases and carrying out earthwork operations. They perform the essential below-ground and site preparation work that precedes building construction.
Key responsibilities
- Excavating trenches, foundations and drainage runs
- Laying drainage pipes, manholes and soakaways
- Constructing concrete foundations, bases and floor slabs
- Operating mini-diggers, compactors and other plant
- Setting out levels and working to engineering specifications
Qualifications and entry routes
CSCS labourer or groundworker card (requires CITB Health, Safety and Environment test). CPCS or NPORS plant operation tickets for machinery. NVQ Level 2 in Construction Operations (Groundwork) for skilled card.
Career outlook
Strong demand driven by house building and infrastructure. Skilled groundworkers with plant tickets command good wages in a sector with persistent labour shortages.
Key skills
Common industries
- Groundwork contractors
- House builders
- Civil engineering
- Utilities
- Landscaping
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£25,448
0-2 years
Mid Level
£31,012
3-7 years
Senior
£44,182
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +74% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£76
Groundworkers salary: common questions
How much do groundworkers earn in the UK?
Is £37,925 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for groundworkers?
Have groundworkers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).