Jointer Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Plymouth)

About the Apprenticeship

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete. You will earn while you learn and develop the 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 Jointer. Following a formal assessment, you’ll become a qualified Jointer.

Jointers are underground cable engineers who carry out excavation, cable laying, reinstatement, and fault location on LV cables. You will represent National Grid and carry out work handed down by other areas of the business.

What You'll Do

• Participate in craft skills activities on the LV, HV, and EHV (Low, High & Extremely high voltage) network.
• Help with network operations, connect generators and services, and organise your own projects.
• Construct distribution substations, excavate, lay and joint cables, and terminate cables to plant.
• Carry out routine inspection, locate faults, and carry out repairs on underground cables and equipment.
• Record asset details and positions.
• Locate and identify cables, test insulation, phasing, and continuity.
• Test earthing, voltage, phasing, and phase rotation.
• Carry out switching operations on the LV network.
• Connect Generators.
• Organise your own projects.

Entry Requirements

• Excellent communication skills.
• Adventurous and driven to work in all weather conditions.
• 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 Qualifications:

• 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 to Electrical Engineering qualifications.

Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

A basic DBS check is required.

Training and Development

• The programme combines technical study, National Grid training, and practical workplace experience.
• Study at Taunton & Bridgewater College alongside dedicated time for coursework and assessments.
• Specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Taunton, and some courses in Eakring.
• Practical workplace learning and role-related project work.
• Achieve a City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting salary of £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
• Upon successful completion of your three-year apprenticeship, you will achieve a nationally recognised accredited qualification: City & Guilds Level 3 in Electrical Power Engineering.
• 23 days annual leave (26 upon completion of training) + statutory holidays.
• Competitive pension 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.

Important Information

• Start Date: September 2027.
• Initial Training: The first 12 weeks involve induction at a Training Centre, requiring you to stay away from home. Accommodation, travel, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided.
• Location: You must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for.
• Application Limit: You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• Application Closing: We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies early once enough applications are received. Apply as early as possible.
• 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.