At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our three-year apprenticeship to become an engineer, transforming high-voltage electricity for homes and businesses.
- Company: National Grid powers every person in England and Wales, investing in a sustainable energy future.
- Benefits: Earn over £29,000 a year with free food, accommodation, travel, and 26 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the energy sector while gaining valuable skills and qualifications.
- Qualifications: Two A-Levels including Maths or Physics at grade C or above, or relevant BTEC.
- Other info: Live within 45 minutes of specified postcodes and be ready to study away from home.
The predicted salary is between 24800 - 25100 £ per year.
Location: GB Carlisle, GB, CA6 4DQ BLAYDON-ON-TYNE, GB, NE21 4SQ Newcastle, GB, NE21 4NT
At National Grid, we see engineering as more than just a job - it's a legacy, a way to shape a brighter energy future and keep the lights on. Would you like to be part of it? How about working for a company that powers every single person in England and Wales? A company that invests billions in Net Zero and creating a sustainable energy future?
Imagine being paid over £29,000 a year while you train, with free food, accommodation, and travel included. Our three-year Higher Apprenticeship Substations program will train you to become an engineer in our substations. Here, we transform high-voltage electricity into low-voltage electricity, making it usable for homes and businesses.
During your training, you'll learn about testing equipment, safety protocols, system protection and control, substation refurbishment, maintenance, technical support, problem diagnosis, and fault fixing. This job will have a significant impact on the transmission of electricity in England and Wales for the next 40 or 50 years. You'll be involved in maintenance work, asset replacement and refurbishment, troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues, and connecting new customers. You'll also play a crucial role in integrating renewable energy sources like wind and solar farms into the transmission network.
As you progress, you may even commission new equipment and take on responsibilities for the safety of your co-workers. If this sounds like the kind of opportunity you'd like to be part of, we're very interested in talking to you!
By the end of the programme, you'll hold a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Electrical power protection and plant commissioning and, most importantly, have a job waiting for you!
About You
You must live within 45 minutes of one of the following postcodes: NE21 4SQ, NE24 1QP, CA6 4DQ. You're driven, proactive, and always seeking ways to improve. Building on your existing knowledge and skills is second nature to you, and you have the enthusiasm to take things to the next level. Communication comes naturally to you, and you know how to adapt your approach to connect with different people. As a flexible multitasker, you can handle multiple responsibilities while paying great attention to detail. Academic brilliance isn't the only thing we're looking for; we value practical individuals with engineering mindsets who are eager to apply themselves.
Here's what you'll need:
- Two A-Levels, including Maths or Physics with a grade of C or above, or a BTEC that includes a Maths or engineering module.
- A valid UK driving license that allows you to drive three months before your start date.
- The ability to live away from home, primarily at our Eakring academy in Nottinghamshire. You'll also spend time in Loughborough, studying for your Higher National Certificate in Electrical power protection and plant commissioning.
What You'll Get
We are proud to offer a starting salary of £29,819. As a first step to your career in the energy industry, our Higher Apprenticeship Programmes are like no other! You'll gain an insight into how we work at National Grid, understand what a career with us can offer, and receive some great rewards and benefits:
- 26 days annual leave plus statutory holidays
- There is the option to buy discounted National Grid shares
- We'll pay for one professional membership subscription
About Us
National Grid is at the heart of the energy future, and our people are at the heart of National Grid. We're 30,000 colleagues strong. In the UK, National Grid don't generate or sell energy – we join the dots to get energy from A to B. From making a cup of tea in the morning, to keeping the lights on in hospitals, our electricity network puts power in the hands of people. Without it, the world as we know it would grind to a halt.
The world of energy is changing beyond recognition as we focus on building a cleaner, greener future. Working at National Grid, you won't just be touching the lives of almost everyone in the UK – you'll be shaping the way we use and consume energy for generations to come.
Our Values and Principles
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to these values is unwavering and they are central to our mission. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and we are happy to discuss any adjustments that you require.
Further Information
We recruit on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close our vacancies once we have enough applications/based on volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure you obtain the place you want in the application process. Assessment centres will be held between January - April 2025.
National Grid's Apprenticeship programme in the UK is open to all applicants who meet the eligibility criteria including an existing and valid right to work in the UK. As part of the application process this will need to be evidenced and verified before you can start the programme. Applicants for our Apprenticeship programmes should be aware that we are unable to provide sponsorship if you require a visa for our apprenticeship programmes. Please be aware that it's your responsibility to explore avenues of working in the UK, as we are not able to provide advice on this. For information about visas please visit UK Government Visa Information.
Substation Higher Apprentice - Newcastle - Upon - Tyne employer: National Grid plc
Contact Detail:
National Grid plc Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Substation Higher Apprentice - Newcastle - Upon - Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Research National Grid's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and the energy sector will help you align your passion with their goals during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices at National Grid. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what to expect during the apprenticeship, giving you an edge in your preparation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential assessment centres by practising technical questions related to electrical engineering and safety protocols. Familiarising yourself with common scenarios in substations can demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for engineering and renewable energy in conversations. Being able to articulate why you want to be part of the energy transition can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Substation Higher Apprentice - Newcastle - Upon - Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Substation Higher Apprentice position. Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your skills and experiences align with what National Grid is looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences, particularly in engineering or technical fields. Emphasise your A-Levels or BTEC qualifications, especially in Maths or Physics, and any practical experiences that demonstrate your engineering mindset.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss why you want to join National Grid and how you can contribute to their mission of creating a sustainable energy future. Be sure to mention your proactive nature and willingness to learn.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the engineering field.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid plc
✨Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about National Grid and its role in the energy sector. Understand their commitment to sustainability and how they integrate renewable energy sources. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its mission.
✨Showcase Your Engineering Mindset
During the interview, highlight any practical experiences or projects that showcase your engineering skills. Discuss how you've applied your knowledge in Maths or Physics in real-world situations, as this aligns with what they are looking for in a candidate.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to electrical power protection and plant commissioning. Brush up on relevant technical concepts and be ready to discuss how you would approach troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues. This will show your preparedness for the role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be prepared to adapt your communication style to connect with different interviewers, showcasing your ability to work well in a team environment.