Fitter Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Hinckley)

About the Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete, leading to a City & Guilds Level 3 Qualification in Electrical Power Engineering. You will earn while you learn, developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to become a Power Networks Craftsperson.

Your training will involve:

• 12 weeks induction at a Training Centre.
• Periods of on-the-job training and development with an experienced Fitter.
• Formal assessment of knowledge, skills, and behaviours.

Upon successful completion, you will become a qualified Fitter.

What You'll Do

A Power Networks Fitter is 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 work in and around substations, installing and maintaining high voltage plant and apparatus including transformers, switchgear, and cable terminations.

Key tasks include:

• Participating in craft skills activities on live LV networks and dead LV, HV, and EHV circuits.
• Assisting with network operations.
• Connecting generators and services.
• Constructing distribution substations and installing plant.
• Carrying out routine inspection, maintenance, and repairs of substation and protection equipment.
• Installing and terminating secondary wiring.
• Recording asset routes, details, and positions.
• Testing earthing, voltage, phasing, and phase rotation.
• Carrying out switching operations on the LV network.

What You'll Need to Apply

• Communication Skills: Confidence to interact with customers, colleagues, and internal stakeholders.
• Resilience: Adventurous and driven to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to following safety instructions and using protective equipment.
• Commitment: Willingness to learn, genuine passion for your career, and dedication to studying.
• Problem-Solving: Curious and able to solve problems effectively.

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 qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

A basic DBS check will be required.

Important Dates

• Start Date: September 2027.
• Initial Training: No annual leave can be accommodated during the first 12 weeks of training.

Location

• Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for.
• During the initial 12 weeks, you will regularly need to stay away from home for training at Tipton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Loughborough College. Accommodation, travel, 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 less frequently.

What You'll Get In Return

• Salary: Starting salary of £19,366, with annual increases throughout the programme: Year 2 - £24,938, Year 2.5 - £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).
• 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 physiotherapy services).
• Career: A permanent position upon successful completion of your apprenticeship.

About the Programme

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

Development includes:

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

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.