Overhead Lines Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Milton Keynes)

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.
• Help with network operations, connect generators and services, and organise your own projects.
• Construct and alter overhead lines, install pole mounted plant, run and terminate cables to plant and overhead lines.
• 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, willingness to follow safety 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 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.

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

A basic DBS check is required.

Training and Location

• The first 12 weeks involve induction at a Training Centre (Tipton, Eakring, or Loughborough College), with accommodation, travel, and food allowances provided. Annual leave cannot be taken during this period.
• You will regularly need to stay away from home for training throughout the programme, though less frequently after the initial 12 weeks.
• Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting salary of £19,366, with annual increases throughout the programme.
• Upon successful completion of the three-year apprenticeship, you will achieve a City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma 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.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

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

Your development programme includes:

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

Start Date

September 2027.