Graduate Innovation Engineer, Customer & Network Development, Chester

Within Customer and Network Development (CND), the Innovation team identifies and develops new solutions to improve how customer connections are designed, developed and delivered. The team researches emerging technologies, trials new approaches and supports the adoption of innovative solutions across the transmission network, addressing engineering and operational challenges, improving customer outcomes and supporting the transition to a cleaner, more flexible energy system.

As a Graduate Innovation Engineer, you will explore and develop innovative solutions that could improve how customer connections are designed, developed and delivered. Working alongside experienced colleagues, you will gain an understanding of the challenges facing the transmission network and how emerging technologies, engineering solutions and new ways of working can help address them. Through research, project delivery and collaboration, you will gain experience turning new ideas into practical solutions.

What You'll Do

• Identify, develop and trial innovative solutions to support the future of the transmission network.
• Research emerging technologies and assess their potential to address engineering, operational and customer challenges.
• Support the development of innovation concepts and project proposals.
• Contribute to innovation trials, demonstrations and pilot projects, evaluating new technologies and approaches.
• Gather and analyse technical and operational data to assess the performance, benefits and limitations of proposed solutions.
• Explore the costs, risks, benefits and practical considerations associated with innovative technologies and ways of working.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations and recommendations.
• Collaborate with engineering, commercial, customer and project delivery teams, as well as external partners, suppliers and technology organisations.
• Share learning from innovation projects and promote innovative thinking across the business.

What You'll Need to Apply

• A minimum 2:2 in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Energy Engineering or Renewable Energy Engineering.
• An interest in innovation, emerging technology and the energy transition.
• Enjoyment of problem-solving and exploring new ideas.
• Curiosity about how new technologies can improve the transmission network.
• Comfort working with technical information.
• Eagerness to develop technical, analytical and project-delivery skills.
• A full, valid UK driving licence by 27th August 2027.
• Flexibility to travel within role and throughout your rotations.
• Must currently live within a 60-minute driving commute of CH5 4BP.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting salary of £38,472 with annual increases.
• A £2,000 joining bonus.
• A £2,400 payment upon successful completion of the programme.
• An accommodation allowance of up to £200 per month during placements.
• 26 days' annual leave, plus statutory holidays.
• A competitive pension scheme.
• Access to flexible benefits (cycle-to-work, holiday buy/sell).
• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
• A permanent role with National Grid upon successful completion.

About the Graduate Programme

• An 18-month programme with a tailored development pathway.
• Develop leadership, business, and technical skills through in-person and virtual sessions.
• Access to 1:1 coaching and a mentor.
• Complete three 6-month placements across the UK.
• Opportunity to access Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and support for chartership.

Location

• Connah's Quay, Flint, Wales.
• Offers flexible hybrid working (attend office at least three days per week).
• Flexibility to travel as required is essential.

Important Information

• You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies early.
• Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship.
• National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship in most cases.