Fitter Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Bodmin)

About the Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete. You will 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.

Power Networks Fitters are responsible for the safe construction, maintenance, and repair of the electrical power network, working on distribution systems up to 66kV (or 132kV if in a Projects team). You will 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).
• Assist with network operations.
• Connect generators and services.
• Organise your own projects.
• Construct distribution substations and install plant.
• Carry out routine inspection, maintenance, and repairs of substation and protection equipment.
• 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 colleagues and stakeholders.
• Adventurous and driven to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Safety awareness and adherence to safety instructions, including the use of protective equipment and clothing.
• Resilience and a willingness to learn, with a genuine passion for your career and commitment to studying.
• Curious problem-solving abilities.

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 GCSEs A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject.

Alternatively, a recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English is accepted. Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications.

Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

A basic DBS check will be required.

Training and Location

Your first 12 weeks will involve induction at one of our Training Centres (Taunton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Taunton & Bridgewater College). Accommodation, travel, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided during this period. You will need to stay away from home for the rest of your training period, though less frequently.

Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of the Bodmin depot.

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.
• Annual Leave: 23 days + statutory holidays (26 days upon completion of training).
• Pension: Competitive scheme (Double matched up to 12%).
• 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).
• Future: A permanent position upon successful completion of your apprenticeship.

About the Programme

This is a 36-month Level 3 Power Industry Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship. It combines technical study, National Grid training, and practical workplace experience.

Development includes:

• Study at Taunton & Bridgewater College.
• Specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Taunton and courses in Eakring.
• Practical workplace learning and project work.
• A City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.

Important Information

• Start Date: September 2027.
• Annual Leave Restriction: No annual leave is permitted during the first 12 weeks of training.
• Application Limit: You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• Application Closing: We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies early once enough applications are received. Apply as early as possible.
• Right to Work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future. National Grid is generally unable to offer sponsorship.