Overhead Lines Projects Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution, Wales

This apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete, with the first 12 weeks spent at one of our Training Centres. You will earn while you learn, developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to become a Power Networks Craftsperson and achieve a City & Guilds Level 3 Qualification in Electrical Power Engineering. Training includes periods of on-the-job learning from experienced Overhead Linespersons, leading to a formal assessment and qualification as an Overhead Linesperson.

Overhead Linespersons construct, maintain, test, repair, and replace overhead lines and equipment, working at height on distribution systems up to 132kV.

What You'll Do

• Participate in craft skills activities on live LV networks and 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/terminate cables.
• Perform 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 adherence to safety instructions and protective equipment usage.
• Resilience, a willingness to learn, 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.

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

A basic DBS check showing any unspent convictions or conditional cautions is required upon offer of a position.

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

Location

Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of your chosen depot. Only one application will be considered.

During the initial 12 weeks, you will need to stay away from home for training at Taunton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Taunton & Bridgewater College. Accommodation, travel costs, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided. Staying away from home will be less frequent for the remainder of your training.

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 in Electrical Power Engineering upon successful completion.
• Annual Leave: 23 days plus statutory holidays (26 days upon completion of training).
• Pension: Competitive scheme (double matched up to 12%).
• 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).
• Career: A permanent position upon successful completion of the 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. You will study at Taunton & Bridgewater College, receive specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Taunton (and some courses in Eakring), and gain practical workplace learning and project work. You will achieve a City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.