Key Takeaways
- Join National Grid as a Graduate Innovation Analyst in Exeter, supporting the future of the electricity network.
- Starting salary of £38,472 with annual increases, plus a £2,000 joining bonus and £2,400 completion bonus.
- Requires a 2:2 in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, a UK driving licence, and flexibility to travel.
- 18-month programme with three 6-month placements across the UK, leading to a permanent role.
About the Role
National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) owns and operates the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales, serving over 8 million people.
The Innovation Team
The Innovation team identifies, develops, and trials new solutions for the electricity network, supporting the transition to a smarter, more flexible, and lower-carbon energy system. They work on projects related to renewable generation, batteries, and emerging technologies.
What You'll Do
As a Graduate Innovation Analyst, you will:
- Support innovation projects from idea development through to trial, evaluation, and implementation.
- Collaborate with engineers, project managers, customers, and external partners on industry challenges.
- Contribute to business cases, cost-benefit assessments, and project activities.
- Identify emerging technologies, trends, and opportunities to improve network performance.
- Assist with project governance, reporting, and risk management.
- Capture and share learning from innovation projects.
- Represent NGED at industry forums and build stakeholder relationships.
- Gain experience through 6-month placements in engineering, operations, strategy, data, customer, and network planning teams.
What You'll Need to Apply
- A minimum 2:2 in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering degree discipline.
- Enjoy solving problems, analysing information, and exploring new ideas.
- Interest in innovation, the future of energy, and new technologies.
- A full, valid UK driving licence by 27th June 2027.
- Flexibility to travel within the South West region and for placements across the UK.
Note: You must have passed your driving theory test before attending the assessment centre stage.
What You'll Get In Return
- Starting Salary: £38,472 with annual increases.
- Annual Leave: 26 days plus statutory holidays.
- Pension: Competitive pension scheme.
- Flexible Benefits: Cycle-to-work, holiday buy/sell schemes.
- Share Plans: Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
- Joining Bonus: £2,000.
- Completion Bonus: £2,400 upon successful completion.
- Accommodation Allowance: Up to £200 per month during placements.
- Relocation Support: Additional annual leave and support for moving between placements.
- Development: Tailored development programme, 1:1 coaching, mentoring, networking, and volunteering opportunities.
- IET Membership: Access to Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and chartership support.
- Future Role: Permanent role with National Grid upon successful completion.
About the Graduate Programme
This is an 18-month programme with a tailored development pathway focusing on leadership, business, and technical skills. It includes in-person and virtual development sessions, 1:1 coaching, and mentoring. You will complete three 6-month placements across the UK.
Application Information
- You can apply for only one opportunity.
- Applications are on a rolling basis and may close early.
- Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without sponsorship.