Employment Types
There are two main types of employment in London and the UK for Engineers, Quantity Surveyors, Planners and Architects - Contract or Permanent jobs. Neither type is better than the other; it is simply a matter of what best suits you as an engineering professional working in the UK.
Contracting work for Engineers
Contracting - Most contract placements are between 3 - 6 months. Your first contract is usually the most difficult to obtain but once you have UK work experience on your CV, finding work will usually become easier. If you want longer term work or are hoping to be sponsored, then you need to work hard and convince your employer that you can't be done without.
Permanent employment for Engineers
Permanent - If you are looking for more security or want stability and career progression, then a permanent role may be for you. Salaries are typically lower than contract rates; however you have the benefit of guaranteed work, holiday pay, sick pay and sometimes other benefits like a car and health insurance.