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

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is seeking apprentices to join their teams. NGED is the owner and operator of electricity distribution systems across the Midlands, Southwest of England, and South Wales, serving over 8 million people. Their work involves maintaining and upgrading 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 an initial 10-12 week induction program at training centres in Taunton or Tipton.
• Work with engineers and specialists on network investment, asset replacement, maintenance, and customer connection projects.
• Study towards a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering, with accommodation and travel costs covered for block-release training.
• Develop skills and knowledge in office-based and practical environments to progress to 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.
• GCSE in English Language AND Maths (Grade C/4 or above).
• Qualifications:
  • 2 A-Levels at grade A*-C, with one in Maths, Engineering, Electronics, or Physics.
  • 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 qualification.
• Successful completion of a basic DBS check.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting Salary: £28,137, with annual increases: Year 2 - £37,465, Year 3 - £45,492, Apprenticeship Completion - £55,835.
• Qualification: Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering upon successful completion.
• Annual Leave: 23 days during training, rising to 26 after completion, plus statutory holidays.
• Pension: Competitive scheme (double matched up to 12%) and Sharesave options.
• Fully funded qualification and earn while you learn.
• Develop skills learning from experienced professionals.
• Permanent position upon successful apprenticeship 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.

• Working towards an HTQ in Power Systems Engineering.
• Initial 10-12 week induction at a Training Centre.
• Technical training through vocational learning, academic study, and formal courses.
• Learning to design substations and control systems.
• Office and field-based placements.
• Working on live projects with experienced engineers.
• Block-release study periods (up to two weeks) with accommodation and travel provided.
• Apprenticeship assessments and experience building.

Flexibility to travel for placements is required. Accommodation and travel costs for block-release study are provided.

About National Grid

National Grid is the UK's critical energy infrastructure company, operating the electricity network and infrastructure. They are investing in the next generation of talent.

More 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 requiring sponsorship.
• National Grid is generally unable to offer sponsorship.

Start Date: September 2027