UK recruiters could play a role in the reconstruction of Louisiana following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in August.

The damage caused by the storm is so immense that the debris clear-up is still not complete.

As a result there is still huge demand for electricians, builders and other skilled labourers to help construct temporary accommodation for people left homeless by the disaster.

Six prime contractors are currently organising the relief effort on behalf of the US government: engineering firms Bechtel, CH2M Hill, Dewberry, Fluor Enterprises, Shaw Group and KBR/Halliburton.

“Currently, our construction output is about $5bn and we are asking our industry to increase about five times,” said Louisiana director of international business development Larry Collins.

“We will probably reach full employment in the near future in the trades in demand, and I can imagine that there is probably going to be a role for professional recruiters.”

Fraser Addiscott, head of the government-backed UK Trade and Investment Oil and Gas team, is calling on UK businesses to help with the aid effort.

The agency, which aims to represent the UK’s trade views abroad, is particularly encouraging small and medium-sized businesses.

In particular, Addiscott said, “there is a severe shortage of electricians and construction staff”.

The Monster job board is one of many companies joining a coalition aimed at helping people in the affected areas.

“We are helping jobseekers fill out resumes so that people can get back on their feet,” said David Rosa, senior vice president and global brand manager at Monster.

Companies involved with the disaster recovery effort can post for free on Monster, and a similar service is available on rival Hotjobs.