["Analyses of Social Issues and Public Policy, Volume 26, Issue 1, April 2026. ", "\nTrans people face inequalities in employment including in STEM careers, being under‐represented and facing specific challenges and disadvantages. There is limited research examining barriers and structural inequalities experienced by trans people in employment, with this research filling a recognized a knowledge gap. Here we draw from a rich mixed methods dataset, including a survey of 234 trans STEM professionals from the UK and USA, and in‐depth interviews with 20 trans people of color working in STEM. We identify a range of important structural inequalities that impact on trans people's access to and opportunities in STEM careers, including disruptions to education, minority stress, a lack of support structures, mobility restrictions, advocacy burdens, and cisnormative systems, creating cumulative disadvantage. We draw attention to the need for targeted structural and institutional interventions across the career pathway to enable trans professionals to thrive in STEM fields where their talent and scientific leadership is nurtured and supported.\n\nPublic significance statement\nThis article provides important data‐driven insights into structural inequalities that disadvantage trans employees working in STEM careers in the UK and USA. Drawing from data on the experiences of trans people, and particularly trans people of color, we identify important barriers that negatively impact on trans people's access to, retention in and progression in STEM careers. These findings can inform targeted action to better support trans professionals, building inclusive sectors and industries welcoming to trans talent.\n"]