Overhead Lines Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Barnstaple/Bude)

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete. You’ll earn while you learn and develop your 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 Overhead Linesperson. Following a formal assessment, you’ll become a qualified Overhead Linesperson yourself.

Overhead Linespersons construct, maintain, test, repair and replace overhead lines and equipment, often working at height.

What You'll Do

• Participate in craft skills activities on the live LV network, on dead LV, HV and EHV circuits (live HV circuits if part of a Hot Glove team).
• Assist with network operations, connect generators and services, and organise your own projects.
• Construct and alter overhead lines, install pole mounted plant, and run and terminate cables to plant and overhead lines.
• Carry out routine inspection, maintenance, and repairs of overhead equipment.
• Record asset details and positions.
• Record plant details.
• Locate and identify cables, test insulation, phasing, and continuity on LV cables.
• Test earthing, voltage, phasing, and phase rotation.
• Carry out switching operations on the LV network.

What You'll Need to Apply

• Excellent communication skills and confidence to interact with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Adventurous and driven to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Strong safety awareness and willingness to follow instructions and use protective equipment.
• Resilience, a passion for your career, and commitment to studying.
• Curious problem-solving skills.

Minimum Entry Criteria:

• 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 GCSEs 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 is accepted. Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent.

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 over 36 months.
• Study at Taunton & Bridgewater College.
• 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.
• You will spend your first 12 weeks at a Training Centre, with accommodation, travel, and food/drink allowances provided.

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 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.
• Location: You must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for (Barnstaple/Bude).
• Application Limit: You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• Closing Date: We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies early once we have enough applications. 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.