Mechanical and electrical trades and labour jobs includes a varied range of construction roles that involve working with electricity or machinery.

Construction sites are highly complex working environments, and they require a range of skills that require skilled workers with a knowledge of electricity and highly specialised machinery. Electricians are responsible for connecting lights, electrical sockets and other electrical systems to the main grid. Mechanical workers include scaffolding operatives, people who operate cement mixers, air-conditioning fitters, heating specialists and anyone who provides labour to assist these skilled workers.

There are a number of national construction firms that are always searching for high calibre tradespeople with specific skills, and labourers are also in demand - albeit often on a temporary basis. Many people gain their relevant qualifications at college; however, the majority of skilled trades operatives in the UK developed their skills, experience and qualifications via a work-based learning scheme. This way into employment usually requires attendance at a specialist learning facility once or twice a week.

A skilled worker who specialises in electrical or mechanical work on a construction project can expect to receive a salary of between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, but this is often paid on a self-employed basis. Unskilled labouring staff will usually receive something close to the national minimum wage. The construction market is rather depressed at the moment, so many recruitment agencies are concentrating on filling temporary or fixed-term contracts.