Projects Fitter Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution (West Midlands)

This apprenticeship programme lasts approximately three years. You will spend the first 12 weeks at one of our Training Centres for induction, earning while you learn.

Upon completion, you will achieve a City & Guilds Level 3 Qualification in Electrical Power Engineering and become a qualified Power Networks Craftsperson.

Your training will involve periods of on-the-job learning from an experienced Fitter, followed by formal assessment.

What You'll Do

As a Power Networks Fitter, you will be responsible for the safe construction, maintenance, and repair of the electrical power network, working on distribution systems up to 132kV.

Your duties will include:

• Participating in craft skills activities on live LV and dead LV, HV, and EHV circuits.
• Assisting with network operations.
• Connecting generators and services.
• Organising your own projects.
• Constructing distribution substations and installing plant.
• Carrying out routine inspection, maintenance, and repairs of substation and protection equipment.
• Installing and terminating secondary wiring.
• Recording asset routes, details, and positions.
• Recording plant details.
• Testing earthing, voltage, phasing, and phase rotation.
• Carrying 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, including following instructions and using protective equipment.
• Resilience, a willingness to learn, and commitment to your studies.
• 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 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 equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications.

Evidence of qualifications will be required prior to appointment.

A basic DBS check is required upon offer of employment.

Start Date: September 2027. Annual leave is not permitted during the first 12 weeks of training.

Location

Operationally, you must live within a 30-minute journey of your chosen depot. Please submit only one application.

During the initial 12 weeks, you will regularly need to stay away from home for training at Tipton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Loughborough College. Accommodation, travel, and an allowance for food and drinks will be provided. Extended stays away from home will be less frequent throughout the rest of your training.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting Salary: £19,366, with annual increases:
  • 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 (increasing to 26 upon completion) plus statutory holidays.
• 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 physiotherapy), and a permanent position upon successful completion.

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 will include:

• Study at Loughborough College.
• Specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Tipton and courses in Eakring.
• Practical workplace learning and project work.
• A City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.