Fitter Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Stoke)

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.

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 substations 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; confidence to interact with colleagues and internal stakeholders.
• Adventurous and driven to work outdoors in all weather.
• Safety awareness and commitment to following safety instructions, using protective equipment and wearing protective clothing.
• 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, a recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English. (Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent).

Additional Requirements:

• Evidence of qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.
• Successful completion of a basic DBS check.

Start Date: September 2027. No annual leave is permitted during the first 12 weeks of training.

Location

• 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, and food/drink allowance will be provided.

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%).
• Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied.
• Flexible benefits including cycle to work and holiday buy/sell schemes.
• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
• Employee Assistance Programme (including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services).
• A permanent position upon successful completion of your apprenticeship.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

• A 36-month Level 3 Power Industry Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship.
• Combines technical study, National Grid training, and practical workplace experience.
• Study: Loughborough College, National Grid's Training Centre in Tipton, and some courses in Eakring.
• Qualification: City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.