Overhead Lines Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Kettering)

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 live LV networks and dead LV, HV and EHV circuits.
• Help 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.
• Carry out routine inspection, maintenance, and repairs of overhead equipment.
• Record asset routes, 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 commitment to following instructions and using protective equipment.
• Resilience, a willingness to learn, passion for your career, and commitment to studying.
• Curiosity and 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 GCSE's A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject.

Alternatively, you can apply with:

• A recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English.

Please note: Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications. Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

Additional Requirements:

• Successful completion of a basic DBS check.

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

Location

• You must live within a 30-minute journey of the Kettering depot.
• For the initial 12 weeks, you will regularly need to stay away from home to attend training at Tipton, Eakring, and Loughborough College. Accommodation, travel, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting Salary: £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
• Qualification: City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.
• Annual Leave: 23 days + statutory holidays (26 days upon completion of training).
• Pension: Competitive 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.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

This is a 36-month Level 3 Power Industry Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship. The programme combines technical study, National Grid training, and practical workplace experience.

• Study at Loughborough College.
• Specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Tipton and Eakring.
• Practical workplace learning and project work.

Important Information

• You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes.
• We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies early once enough applications are received. Apply as early as possible.
• Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.