At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our apprenticeship to learn hands-on skills in electrical engineering and cable management.
- Company: National Grid, a leader in energy infrastructure, powering millions across the UK.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive salary, annual increases, and great perks.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic training environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the energy sector while gaining valuable qualifications.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; passion for learning is key.
The predicted salary is between 19366 - 19366 £ per year.
About the Position
The apprenticeship programme takes approximately three years to complete, and you’ll spend your first 12 weeks being inducted onto the programme at one of our Training Centres. You’ll earn while you learn and develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours to become a Power Networks Craftsperson, achieving a City & Guilds Level 2 Qualification in Electrical Engineering. Your training will include periods of on-the-job training and development, learning from an experienced and qualified Jointer. Following a formal assessment of your knowledge, skills and behaviours, you’ll become a qualified Jointer yourself. Jointers are underground cable engineers who carry out excavation, cable laying, reinstatement and fault location on LV cables. You will represent National Grid and carry out work handed down by other areas of the business.
What You'll Do
- Participate in craft skills activities on the LV, HV and EHV (Low, High & Extremely high voltage) network.
- Help with network operations, connect generators and services and organise your own projects.
- Construct distribution substations, excavate, lay and joint cables, and terminate cables to plant.
- Carry out routine inspection, locate faults and carry out repairs on underground cables and equipment.
- Record asset details and positions.
- Locate and identify cables, test insulation, phasing and continuity.
- Test earthing, voltage, phasing and phase rotation.
- Carry out switching operations on the LV network.
- Connect Generators.
- Organise your own projects.
What You'll Need to Apply
Excellent communication skills; one moment, you could be speaking with customers, and the next, colleagues or internal stakeholders. Your success relies on your confidence to interact with the wider business. As you’ll be working outdoors, we need you to be adventurous and driven to work in all weather. Safety awareness is a must (you’ll follow safety instructions, use protective equipment and wear protective clothing), as is meeting deadlines. You’ll be resilient and willing to learn, genuinely passionate about your career and committed to studying. Curious problem solvers thrive here.
Our minimum entry criteria require the following qualifications (held or predicted):
- 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 GCSE's A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject.
You can also apply with a recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English. Please note: Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications and as a result you will be required to meet the minimum entry requirements detailed above. Whatever qualifications you hold, we will need to see evidence of them for you to be considered. Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment. If you are offered a position, you will be required to successfully complete a basic DBS check that shows any unspent convictions or conditional cautions.
Start date September 2027. Please note that we are unable to accommodate any annual leave during these first 12 weeks of training.
Location
Operationally we require you to live within a 30-minute journey of the depot you are applying for. Please only submit one application. If you appear to be a good match for more than one location, we will consider your suitability during the process. Multiple applications will not be considered. For the initial 12 weeks you will regularly need to stay away from home to attend training at Tipton Training Centre, Eakring Training Centre, and Loughborough College. Accommodation will be provided in advance and travel costs will be covered, along with allowance for food and drinks. You will still stay away from home for the rest of your training period, but it will be far less frequent.
What You'll Get In Return
We are proud to offer a starting salary of £19,366 for this apprenticeship, with annual salary increases throughout the programme following the timeline below:
- Year 2 - £24,938
- Year 2.5 (Development Role) - £32,473
- Year 3 - £37,770
- Completion - £43,491
Alongside a tailored development programme to power your career at National Grid, we also offer some great rewards and benefits too:
- Upon successful completion of your three year apprenticeship you will achieve a nationally recognised accredited qualification, City & Guilds Level 3 in Electrical Power Engineering.
- 23 days annual leave (26 upon completion of training) + statutory holidays.
- Competitive pension scheme (Double matched up to 12%).
- Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied.
- Flexible benefits including cycle to work and holiday buy/sell schemes.
- The opportunity to participate in our Sharesave and Share Incentive Plans.
- You’ll develop well-rounded skills through practical experience.
- Employee Assistance Programme is there to take care of you and includes musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services if you need them.
- A permanent position upon successful completion of your apprenticeship.
About the Apprenticeship Programme
Alongside your role, you'll complete a 36-month Level 3 Power Industry Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship. The programme combines technical study, National Grid training and practical workplace experience, helping you develop the skills required for a career in the electricity distribution industry. Your development programme will include:
- Study at Loughborough College alongside dedicated time for coursework and assessments.
- Specialist training at National Grid's Training Centre in Tipton, and some courses in Eakring.
- Practical Workplace learning and role-related project work.
- A City & Guilds Level 2 & 3 Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.
About National Grid
National Grid is the UK’s critical energy infrastructure company, operating the electricity network and infrastructure that connects millions of people to the energy they use every day, supporting homes, businesses and communities across England and Wales. National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is the owner and operator behind our electricity distribution systems across the Midlands, Southwest of England and South Wales, who directly serve communities of more than 8 million people. With our expert teams delivering heat, light and power for homes and businesses, working outdoors with underground cables, overhead lines and substations that operate between 230 and 132,000 volts. Supporting customers who have lost supply, or working on network faults, maintenance or new connections, their work is critical.
We know the future of energy won't be shaped by what we know today. It will be shaped by what's possible tomorrow. That's why we're investing in the next generation of talent, giving apprentices, undergraduates and graduates the opportunity to learn from experts, gain hands-on experience and contribute to work that matters from day one. Are you ready to unlock the power of the possible?
More Information
You can apply for only one opportunity across all Early Careers and Career Changer programmes. Before applying, please carefully review all available programmes and choose the one that best matches your interests and career goals. We recruit on a rolling basis across our Early Careers Roles. We may close our vacancies early once we have enough applications. We therefore encourage you to apply as early as possible. National Grid's Early Careers opportunities in the UK are 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. Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin. Please be aware that it’s your responsibility to explore avenues of working in the UK, as we're not able to provide advice on this.
Jointer Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution(Leicester/Kettering) employer: natgridProd
National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Warwick that promotes innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while enjoying a flexible hybrid working model that supports work-life balance. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values your contributions and empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Jointer Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution(Leicester/Kettering)
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Jointer Advanced Apprentice, National Grid Electricity Distribution(Leicester/Kettering)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch natgridProd's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at natgridProd. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at natgridProd
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at natgridProd.
