If you’re an electrical, control, or instrumentation (EC&I) engineer, you’ve likely seen more roles asking for travel, overnight stays, or long-distance site work.
Working away from home as an EC&I Engineer, is becoming more common across industries like power, defence, and manufacturing, especially for project-based assignments. While it isn’t for everyone, it can offer excellent financial and career rewards when managed well.
Here’s what working away from home as an EC&I Engineer candidate needs to know before accepting a role.
Why more jobs involve travel now
We’re seeing a steady rise in mobile roles for EC&I contractors and technicians and there are a few reasons behind it:
- Project-based demand: Shutdowns, upgrades, commissioning, and planned outages often need short bursts of specialist labour on-site.
- Skills shortages: Some clients need niche experience they can’t source locally.
- National workstreams: Major players in energy, MOD, or renewables are managing work across multiple UK sites and need mobile teams to support delivery.
Key things to check before accepting a field-based role
Not all travel roles are the same. Before committing, make sure you understand:
- Travel expectations: Will you be driving daily or staying overnight? How far is the site from home?
- Accommodation: Is it provided? Who books and pays? Is it near the site?
- Shifts and hours: Some roles involve 12-hour shifts, weekends, or night work.
- Assignment length: Is it a two-week shutdown or a 6-month project?
- Site requirements: Some sites need SC or DV clearance, medical checks, or safety inductions.
Getting clarity upfront ensures you know what you’re walking into, and can plan around it.
Will I earn more by working away?
Often, yes. Roles that require travel or relocation can come with:
- Higher day/hourly rates: Especially for urgent or short-term projects
- Living away allowances (LAAs): To cover food, fuel, or accommodation
- Travel expenses: Reimbursements for mileage or train fares
- Completion bonuses: Offered on some long-duration or complex jobs
But it’s also worth balancing those benefits with what you might spend, and what you’re giving up in personal time.
Common challenges, and how to manage them
Personal and family sacrifices
Being away means missing family time, social events, and daily routines.
→ Be honest with yourself and those close to you about your commitments.
Travel and logistics
From expense claims to route planning, mobile work can add admin.
→ Have a checklist for packing, check reimbursement processes, and confirm travel details early.
Health and wellbeing
Long shifts, hotel beds, and inconsistent meals can take a toll.
→ Bring small comforts from home, eat well where possible, and prioritise sleep and hydration.
Why working away can still be a great opportunity
There’s a reason many EC&I engineers choose this path, and stick with it:
- Exposure to new equipment and teams
- Access to high-value, high-spec projects
- Networking with clients and contractors across the UK
- Stand-out experience for your CV
Even a few contracts away from home can significantly boost your technical profile and future job prospects.
Questions to ask before saying yes
Before accepting a role that requires travel or time away from home, ask:
- What’s covered and what’s out of pocket?
- Is accommodation booked or reimbursed?
- What’s the rota? (e.g., 3 weeks on, 1 week off)
- Will I work solo or as part of a team?
- What support is available if something changes at home?
Final thoughts
Working away from home isn’t always easy, but with the right setup, it can be rewarding both professionally and financially.
At EC&I Partners, we’ll always be upfront about what’s involved in any mobile role and work with you to make sure it suits your personal and career goals.
Thinking about taking on a travel role?
We’ll help you ask the right questions, get the right support, and find the right fit.
