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Contract Or Permanent In 2026 – Which Is Right For You?

7th January 2026

One of the most common questions professionals across infrastructure and the built environment are asking right now is simple: 

SHOULD I GO CONTRACT OR PERMANENT?

With hiring activity picking up early in the year, both options are firmly on the table. The right choice depends on your career goals, lifestyle priorities and where you want to be in the next few years. 

Business Man Choosing the path contract or permanent roles

Contract Roles: Flexibility, Variety and Earning Potential 

Contract roles continue to be popular across major programmes and projects where specialist skills are needed quickly. 

Why do people choose contracting: 

  • Higher earning potential through competitive day rates 
  • Exposure to major projects without long-term commitment 
  • Greater flexibility over roles, locations and assignments 
  • Broader experience, working across different organisations and environments 

Contracting often suits professionals who enjoy variety, autonomy and building a strong project-focused CV. 

Things to consider: 

  • Contracts are typically shorter-term, with less certainty beyond the end date 
  • Benefits such as holiday pay and pensions are usually not included 
  • You may be responsible for admin, compliance and financial planning 
Financial Stability

Permanent Roles: Stability, Progression and Long-Term Security 

Permanent roles remain a strong option for professionals who value consistency and long-term career development. 

Why permanent roles appeal: 

  • Job security and a predictable income 
  • Structured career progression and internal development opportunities 
  • Employee benefits, including paid leave, pensions and training 
  • Being part of a team and organisation long-term 

Permanent roles are often attractive for those planning ahead, balancing work with personal commitments, or aiming for leadership and management pathways. 

Things to consider: 

  • Salaries may be lower than contract day rates, although benefits add value 
  • Less flexibility to move between projects quickly 
  • Career progression can depend on company structure and timing 
Business man thinking

SO, WHICH OPTION IS BEST?

There’s no universal answer, and many professionals move between contract and permanent roles at different stages of their careers. 

  • You might lean towards contracting if you value flexibility, variety and short-term earning potential. 
  • You might prefer permanent work if stability, benefits and long-term growth matter more right now. 

The key is understanding how the current market aligns with your priorities. 

A FINAL THOUGHT

You don’t have to decide alone. Speaking with a specialist recruiter can help you understand: 

  • Current demand across sectors 
  • Realistic earnings for both contract and permanent roles 
  • How each option fits your long-term career plans 

Exploring both paths early in the year gives you more choice and more control over your next move. 

CONSIDERING YOUR OPTIONS FOR 2026?

A conversation could help you decide which route works best for you. Get in touch with our recruiters. 

Ready to explore new opportunities? Browse all our latest roles here