Network Trainee Design Engineer Higher Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution, CD

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is seeking apprentices to join their Network Services teams. These teams are responsible for maintaining the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, Southwest of England, and South Wales, serving over 8 million people. The work involves managing underground cables, overhead lines, and substations.

What You'll Do

• Support the design of electrical substations and associated control systems (up to 132kV).
• Produce engineering drawings, technical specifications, and project documentation.
• Complete a structured training program including classroom learning, practical training, and on-the-job experience.
• Undertake placements across National Grid's operational areas.
• Complete a 10-12 week induction program at training centres in Taunton or Tipton.
• Assist engineers with network investment, asset replacement, maintenance, and customer connection projects.
• Study towards a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering.
• Apply learning in office and practical settings to progress towards a qualified Design Engineer role.

What You'll Need to Apply

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Resilience, a willingness to learn, passion for your career, and commitment to studying.
• Curiosity and problem-solving abilities.
• Qualifications:
  • GCSE English Language AND Maths (Grade C/4 or above).
  • Either: 2 A-Levels at grade A*-C (Maths, Engineering, Electronics, or Physics required for one).
  • Or: HNC/HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
  • Or: Degree in Maths, Physics, Electrical/Electronic or Mechanical Engineering.
• Ability to travel to and work from various National Grid depots and operational locations.
• Predicted qualifications must be confirmed before the scheme starts.
• A Mathematics Diagnostic Test will be administered at the start of the higher-level qualification.
• Successful completion of a basic DBS check.

Start Date

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

Location

Castle Donington depot. Applicants must live within approximately 60 minutes of the depot.

What You'll Get In Return

• Salary: Starting at £28,137, with annual increases to £37,465 (Year 2), £45,492 (Year 3), and £55,835 upon completion.
• Qualification: Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering upon successful completion of the three-year apprenticeship.
• Leave: 23 days annual leave during training (rising to 26 after completion) plus statutory holidays.
• Pension: Competitive scheme (double matched up to 12%) and Sharesave options.
• Other Benefits: Earn while you learn, fully funded qualification, development from experienced professionals, and a permanent position upon successful completion.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

This is a Higher Apprenticeship in Power Systems Engineering, typically lasting three years. It combines structured learning with hands-on experience to prepare you for a career in Engineering Design. The programme includes:

• Working towards an HTQ in Power Systems Engineering.
• An initial 10-12 week induction at a Training Centre (Taunton or Tipton).
• Technical training via vocational learning, academic study, and formal courses.
• Learning substation design.
• Office and field-based placements.
• Working on live projects with experienced engineers.
• Block-release study periods (up to two weeks) in the first two years, with accommodation and travel covered.
• Apprenticeship assessments and experience building.

Flexibility to travel for placements is required. Accommodation and travel costs for block-release study periods will be covered.