Trainee Control Engineer Higher Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution, Castle Donington

As a Control Engineer Higher Apprentice, you will play a vital role in helping keep the electricity network safe, secure, and reliable. You will support the real-time operation of the high-voltage distribution network, ensuring supplies are restored safely and efficiently, risks are minimised, and customers receive a reliable service.

What You'll Do

• Support the safe operation and control of the high-voltage electricity distribution network (up to 132kV), ensuring all activities are carried out in accordance with Distribution Safety Rules and company policies.
• Monitor network performance in real time, helping to manage faults, incidents, network security and system restoration activities while minimising risk and customer interruptions.
• Work collaboratively with Control Centre teams, National Grid Electricity Transmission, government bodies and other stakeholders to support network demand management and emergency response activities.
• Complete placements across a range of specialist areas, including Protection, Operational Switching, Transformer Maintenance, Network Analysis, DSO Control Systems, Operational Support, Telecoms and Control Room operations, developing a broad understanding of network management and engineering.
• Take ownership of your professional development by maintaining records of your progress, producing reports and evidence of learning, and working closely with your manager and mentor as you progress towards becoming a Shift Control Engineer.

This role involves shift working, including weekends and bank holidays, as our Control Centres operate 24/7/365. You will also complete placements across a number of National Grid locations.

What You'll Need to Apply

• GCSE in English AND Maths (Grade A*-C/9-4) or the equivalent Level 2 Functional Skills qualification.
• Entry Criteria:
  • 2 A-Levels at grade A*-C, one of which must be Maths, Engineering, Electronics, or Physics
  • OR a level 3 or above qualification in an Engineering based subject which contains Electrical or Electronic modules.
  • OR HNC/HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Comfortable working in a high-pressure, fast-paced operational environment where priorities can change quickly.
• Strong communication skills, resilience, and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
• Commitment to safety and collaborative working.
• Ability to travel to and work from a variety of National Grid depots and operational locations.

If your qualifications are predicted, you must receive your confirmed results prior to the commencement of the scheme. You must be able to travel to and work from a variety of National Grid depots and operational locations throughout the apprenticeship to gain the practical experience required to complete the programme.

If you are offered a position, you will be required to successfully complete a basic DBS check and a BS7858 security screening check. A National Security Vetting SC check will be completed within the first twelve months as a condition of appointment.

About the Apprenticeship Programme

• You will complete a Higher Apprenticeship in Power Systems Engineering, leading to a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering.
• The programme typically takes around 30 months to complete and combines academic study with practical workplace experience.
• Your development programme will include study towards an HTQ, practical training within Control Centres and operational teams, specialist placements, and experience supporting the operation and management of the electricity distribution network.
• You will receive ongoing support from experienced engineers, your manager, and a dedicated mentor.

What You'll Get In Return

• Starting Salary: £45,492, with annual increases to £49,369 (Year 2), £55,835 (Year 3), and £63,949 (Completion).
• Qualification: Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) in Power Systems Engineering upon successful completion.
• Annual Leave: 23 days during training, rising to 26 after completion, plus statutory holidays.
• Benefits: Competitive pension scheme and Sharesave options.
• Earn whilst you learn with a fully funded qualification.
• Develop well-rounded skills learning from experienced professionals.

Important Information

• Start Date: September 2027.
• Location: Pegasus Business Park (Castle Donington). You must live within approximately 45 minutes of the depot.
• Right to Work: You must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future. National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship in most cases.
• Security Clearance: Requires a basic DBS check, BS7858 security screening, and a National Security Vetting SC check within the first twelve months. You will normally need to have been resident in the UK for at least 5 years for Security Clearance (SC).
• Application: 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. Apply as early as possible.