Overhead Lines Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (Radstock/Weston)

The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete. You’ll earn while you learn and develop the 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.

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.
• 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.
• 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 willingness to follow instructions and use protective equipment.
• Resilience, a passion for your career, and commitment to studying.
• Curious problem-solving abilities.

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 to Electrical Engineering qualifications.

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

A basic DBS check showing any unspent convictions or conditional cautions is required.

Important Dates

• Start Date: September 2027.
• Initial Training: You will be unable to take any annual leave during the first 12 weeks of training.

Location

• You must live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for.
• For the initial 12 weeks, you will need to stay away from home to attend training at Taunton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Taunton & Bridgewater College. Accommodation, travel, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided.
• You will still need to stay away from home for the rest of your training period, but less frequently.

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%).
• Other Benefits: Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied, flexible benefits (cycle to work, holiday buy/sell), Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans, Employee Assistance Programme (including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services).
• Future Prospects: 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: Taunton & Bridgewater College, with dedicated time for coursework and assessments.
• Specialist Training: National Grid's Training Centre in Taunton, with some courses in Eakring.
• Practical Learning: Workplace learning and role-related project work.

About National Grid

National Grid is the UK’s critical energy infrastructure company, operating the electricity network that connects millions of people to the energy they use. National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) serves communities across the Midlands, Southwest of England, and South Wales. We are investing in the next generation of talent, offering apprentices the opportunity to learn from experts, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to work that matters.