Graduate Innovation Engineer, Electricity Distribution, Nottingham

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is responsible for 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 the electrification of heat and transport, and the connection of renewable generation and batteries.

Your Role as a Graduate Innovation Analyst

You will gain hands-on experience in the Innovation team, identifying challenges, developing solutions, and delivering projects for the electricity network. You will learn about NGED's innovation strategy, project development, funding, and implementation. Through project work, stakeholder engagement, and business placements, you will develop a broad understanding of electricity distribution and the role of innovation in achieving net zero.

What You'll Do

• Support innovation projects from idea development through to trial, evaluation, and implementation.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, customers, and external partners to address industry challenges.
• Contribute to business cases, cost-benefit assessments, and project activities.
• Identify emerging technologies, trends, and opportunities to improve network performance and customer outcomes.
• Assist with project governance, reporting, and risk management.
• Capture, share, and embed learning from innovation projects across the business.
• Represent NGED at industry forums and events, building stakeholder relationships.
• Gain experience in engineering, operations, strategy, data, customer, and network planning teams through placements.

What You'll Need to Apply

• A minimum 2:2 degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• Enjoy solving problems, analysing information, and exploring new ideas.
• Interest in innovation, the future of energy, and new technologies.
• Experience in project work, cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, or stakeholder engagement is beneficial.
• A full, valid UK driving licence by 27th June 2027.
• Flexibility to travel within the East Midlands region and for placements across the UK.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting salary of £38,289 with annual increases.
• 18-month graduate programme with a tailored development pathway.
• 26 days' annual leave plus statutory holidays.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Access to flexible benefits (cycle-to-work, holiday buy/sell).
• Opportunity to participate in Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
• £2,000 joining bonus.
• £2,400 upon successful completion of the programme.
• Up to £200 per month accommodation allowance during placements.
• Additional annual leave and relocation support between placements.
• Dedicated mentoring, 1:1 coaching, networking, and volunteering opportunities.
• Permanent role with National Grid upon successful completion.

About the Graduate Programme

This 18-month programme includes in-person and virtual development sessions, 1:1 coaching, and a mentor. You will complete core development modules and an Engineering pathway, with opportunities for IET membership and chartership support.

Placements

You will complete three 6-month placements across the UK to deepen your understanding and broaden your business knowledge.

Important Information

• You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• Applications are on a rolling basis and may close early.
• Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without sponsorship.
• You must obtain a full, valid UK driving licence no later than 27th June 2027.
• If you progress to the assessment centre, you must have passed your driving theory test.