Approved Electricians

If you’re looking at electrician roles that focus on metal containment and cable tray work, you’re getting into a very hands-on, installation-heavy part of the trade. These jobs are common on large commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.

This type of work involves installing the systems that hold and protect electrical cables, rather than connecting final devices like sockets or lighting.

You’ll typically be working with

Cable trays / ladder racks – open metal systems for routing large cable runs

Trunking – enclosed metal channels

Conduit (steel or PVC-coated) – pipes that protect wiring

Supports & brackets – unistrut, threaded rod, fixings

Typical job duties

A role like this usually includes

Measuring, cutting, and installing metal containment systems

Mounting tray systems on ceilings, walls, or raised floors

Installing supports, brackets, and fixings securely

Running and dressing cables neatly within trays

Bending and threading steel conduit

Reading and working from technical drawings and schematics

Ensuring compliance with wiring regulations (e.g., BS 7671 in the UK)

Working at height (ladders, scissor lifts, or scaffolding)

Where these jobs are found

You’ll most often see this work on

Commercial builds (offices, shopping centres)

Industrial sites (factories, warehouses)

Data centres (a big one for tray work)

Transport infrastructure (rail, airports)

Large residential developments

Skills employers look for

Experience with containment installation (tray, trunking, conduit)

Ability to use hand and power tools confidently

Understanding of electrical drawings

Good physical fitness (lifting, overhead work)

Certifications like

ECS/CSCS card (UK)

NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation (preferred)

IPAF or PASMA (for access equipment)

Pay (UK rough guide)

Large projects (especially in London) can pay premium rates, especially for experienced containment installers.