Fitter Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Birmingham)

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete. You’ll earn while you learn and develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours to become a Power Networks Craftsperson, achieving a City & Guilds Level 3 Qualification in Electrical Power Engineering. Your training will include periods of on-the-job training and development, learning from an experienced and qualified Fitter. Following a formal assessment, you’ll become a qualified Fitter yourself.

A Power Networks Fitter has responsibility for the safe construction, maintenance and repair of the electrical power network. You’ll work on distribution systems up to 66kV (or 132kV if in a Projects team). Fitters are fitting engineers who work in and around substations, using electrical knowledge and skills to install and maintain high voltage plant and apparatus including transformers, switchgear, and cable terminations.

What You'll Do

• Participate in craft skills activities on the live LV network, on dead LV, HV and EHV circuits (live HV circuits if part of a Hot Glove team).
• Help with network operations, connect generators and services and organise your own projects.
• Construct distribution substations and install plant.
• Carry out routine inspection, maintenance and repairs of substation and protection equipment.
• Connect Generators.
• Install and terminate secondary wiring (Small wiring).
• Record asset routes, details and positions.
• Record plant details.
• Test earthing, voltage, phasing and phase rotation.
• Carry out switching operations on the LV network.

What You'll Need to Apply

• Excellent communication skills and confidence to interact with the wider business.
• Adventurous and driven to work outdoors in all weather.
• Safety awareness and commitment to meeting deadlines.
• Resilience and willingness to learn, with a genuine passion for your career and commitment to studying.
• Curious problem-solving skills.

Minimum Entry Criteria:

• GCSE English Language at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills English.
• GCSE Mathematics at Grade A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills Maths.
• GCSE Science at Grade A*-C/9-4 or BTEC Science Level 2 equivalent.
• Two other GCSE's A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject.

Alternatively, you can apply with:

• A recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English.

Important Notes:

• Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications.
• Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.
• If offered a position, you will be required to successfully complete a basic DBS check.

Start Date: September 2027. No annual leave can be taken during the first 12 weeks of training.

Location

Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for. For the initial 12 weeks, you will regularly need to stay away from home to attend training at Tipton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Loughborough College. Accommodation, travel costs, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided. You will still stay away from home for the rest of your training period, but it will be far less frequent.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting Salary: £19,366, with annual increases throughout the programme:
  • Year 2: £24,938
  • Year 2.5 (Development Role): £32,473
  • Year 3: £37,770
  • Completion: £43,491
• Qualification: City & Guilds Level 3 in Electrical Power Engineering upon successful completion.
• Annual Leave: 23 days + statutory holidays (26 days upon completion of training).
• Pension: Competitive scheme (Double matched up to 12%).
• Other Benefits: Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied, flexible benefits (cycle to work, holiday buy/sell), Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans, Employee Assistance Programme (including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services), and a permanent position upon successful completion.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

This is a 36-month Level 3 Power Industry Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship. The programme combines technical study, National Grid training, and practical workplace experience. Your development will include study at Loughborough College, specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Tipton and Eakring, and practical workplace learning. You will gain a City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.