Which UK sectors have the most temp jobs?
posted 15 Apr 25
Temporary jobs give you freedom, flexibility, and a fast way into work.
Whether you want to earn quickly, build experience, or try something new, temping opens doors across a wide range of industries.
But which sectors are really hiring right now? If you’re wondering where your skills are most needed, here’s a clear look at the UK’s busiest industries for temporary work — starting with the ones where demand is highest.
The top 3 sectors for temp jobs in the UK
1. Health & Social Care
Health & Social Care consistently tops the list for temporary roles. With an ageing population, ongoing staff shortages, and around-the-clock services, there's no shortage of demand for dedicated care professionals.
Common temp roles include:
- Care Assistants
- Support Workers
- Healthcare Assistants
- Registered Nurses
- Mental Health Nurses
Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, this sector offers flexible shifts and the chance to make a real difference.
2. Logistics & Warehousing
From online shopping to global deliveries, logistics keeps the world moving. With seasonal peaks and fast-paced environments, employers regularly rely on temporary staff to meet demand.
Common temp roles include:
- Warehouse Operatives
- Pickers and Packers
- Stock Controllers
- Loaders
With plenty of shift options (including nights and weekends), it’s ideal if you’re looking for flexible hours and immediate starts.
3. Call & Contact Centres
Contact centres are busy year-round and often ramp up hiring during sales periods, product launches, or holidays. Temp roles are a great way to get your foot in the door — and many lead to long-term work.
Common temp roles include:
- Customer Service Advisors
- Telesales Staff
- Collections Agents
- Helpdesk and Tech Support
If you're confident on the phone and quick to learn, this is a fast-moving sector with plenty of opportunity — including hybrid and remote roles.
Other sectors with strong temp demand
These sectors may not top the list in volume, but they consistently hire temporary workers and offer solid routes into employment.
Construction
Construction is project-based, and employers often need extra hands at short notice. Whether you’re new to site work or already trained, there’s always something going on.
Typical roles include:
- Labourers
- Bricklayers
- Groundworkers
- Machine Operators
You can build skills quickly and even gain qualifications while on the job.
Industrial & Manufacturing
Factories and production centres rely on temporary staff to meet targets and handle peaks in demand — especially in food, packaging, and retail supply chains.
Typical roles include:
- Assembly Operatives
- Machine Operators
- Quality Control Staff
- Production Assistants
If you like hands-on work and steady shifts, this could be a strong fit.
Driving
The UK still faces a shortage of qualified drivers, and temporary contracts are common. Whether it’s deliveries, logistics, or roadside recovery, there’s always movement in this space.
Typical roles include:
- HGV Drivers
- Van Drivers
- Multi-Drop Delivery Drivers
- Chauffeurs and Recovery Drivers
The right licence goes a long way here — and pay tends to reflect the demand.
Hospitality
Events, holidays, and tourism all drive temporary hiring in hospitality. This sector suits people who enjoy working with others and want variety in their day-to-day.
Typical roles include:
- Waiting Staff
- Baristas and Bartenders
- Chefs and Kitchen Porters
- Event Hosts
It’s great if you’re after short shifts, seasonal work, or something sociable.
Business Support & Admin
Office support roles are regularly offered on a temporary basis, especially to cover leave, short-term projects, or busy periods.
Typical roles include:
- Administrators
- Receptionists
- Data Entry Clerks
- HR Assistants
If you’re organised and enjoy structure, admin temp work is a great entry point — or a way to stay sharp between permanent jobs.
Engineering & Energy
In engineering and energy, temporary roles often come up to support specific projects or fill skill gaps — particularly in manufacturing, renewables, and infrastructure.
Typical roles include:
- Mechanical and Electrical Engineers
- Maintenance Technicians
- CNC Machinists
- Wind Turbine and Solar Installers
Some roles are highly technical, but there are opportunities across skill levels. It’s a future-facing sector with strong earning potential.
Final thoughts
Temporary work can be more than just a stopgap. It can help you gain experience, try something new, or earn on your terms — with the option to move into something more permanent when the time is right.
If you’re looking for flexibility, variety, and a quick way into work, these are the sectors where you’ll find the most opportunity.
Explore live temp roles today and find work that fits around you.
