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- Tasks: Help shape the future of energy by planning and modelling the electricity network.
- Company: Join NESO, a leader in the energy transition for Great Britain.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on clean energy while gaining industry-recognised qualifications.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, plus A-levels or BTEC in engineering.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic apprenticeship with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 24800 - 25100 £ per year.
National Energy System Operator
Warwick, England, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
- Location: Warwick or Wokingham (with travel to partner college in East Midlands)
- Start Date: September 2026
- Salary: £29,819 + £2,000 welcome payment – earn while you learn!
Help shape the future of energy in Great Britain.
We’re the National Energy System Operator (NESO) — the independent public corporation at the heart of the energy transition. Our job? Ensuring the lights stay on today while designing a reliable, clean, and affordable energy system for tomorrow.
As a Higher Apprentice, you’ll be part of the team making that happen. You’ll earn a salary while gaining hands‑on experience and working towards industry‑recognised qualifications – all with full support from our expert engineers and mentors.
What the programme includes:
- A three-year structured programme combining:
- On‑the‑job training with experienced engineering teams
- Off‑the‑job learning at college – you will need to travel to our partner college in East Midlands
- In‑house technical training designed by NESO
- Study towards a Level 4 HTQ in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)
- Continue study towards a Level 5 HND qualification (awarded on completion of the programme)
- Real‑world experience in teams such as System Operations, Strategic Energy Planning and Engineering & Customer Solutions
- Outward bounds residential – a week‑long development programme to build professional skills
What you’ll be doing
As a Trainee Power System Engineer, you’ll help plan, model and shape the energy network.
- Model and analyse impacts on future electricity system challenges
- Help develop energy systems plans – including onshore and offshore networks
- Assess customer connection applications
- Utilise analytical and operational tools to support engineering decision making
On successful completion of the programme, you will be considered for a permanent Power System Engineer role at NESO where you will have the opportunity to work with external stakeholders such as Transmission Owners, Distribution Network Operators, Generators, and wider industry players.
What you’ll get
- Annual salary of £29,819
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays and your birthday off!
- Welcome payment
- Bonus when qualifications are gained
- Travel & expenses for college in line with company policy
- Pension, flexible benefits and hybrid working (depending on business needs)
- A career path into a permanent role – and beyond
- Awarded a Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Electrical Power Network Engineering
- Awarded a Level 4 HTQ in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)
- Awarded a Level 5 HND in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)
What we’re looking for
We don’t expect you to be an expert, but we do need people who are:
- Reliable and punctual – turning up on‑time is essential
- Proactive and self‑motivated – driven to succeed, you’ll need to own your learning
- Resilient – ready to face challenges and keep going
- Strong communicators – able to work with others and be inquisitive, don’t be afraid to ask questions!
- Willing to travel – there will be lots of study at college in the East Midlands, as well as travel between Warwick and Wokingham offices as required
Entry requirements:
- GCSEs in English Language and Maths at grade C/4 or above
- Plus one of the following:
- 2 A-levels (grades A* – C) in Maths and a Science
- Or Level 3 BTEC or HNC in engineering (Merit or Distinction, with Maths modules at Merit or Distinction)
- You must also have lived in the UK for at least 3 years and have the right to work in the UK.
About NESO
We’re building a future where everyone has access to reliable, clean, and affordable energy. At NESO, you’ll join a team that’s:
- Curious and visionary
- Purpose‑driven and inclusive
- Technically brilliant and always improving
- Collaborative, diverse and human
Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments you may need.
How to apply
Closing date: ongoing – we recommend applying early! As soon as all our spaces are filled, we will close the online application form.
Assessment Centres:
Taking place in March and April.
Together, we’re energising progress.
Start your journey with NESO — and help shape the future of energy for everyone.
We work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be.
We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.
We\’re committed to building a workforce that represents the communities we serve, and a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential.
Seniority Level
Entry level
- Electric Power Transmission, Control, and Distribution
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Trainee Power System Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship employer: National Energy System Operator
Contact Detail:
National Energy System Operator Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Power System Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at NESO on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Trainee Power System Engineer role. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Review key concepts in electrical engineering and energy systems. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role and ready to learn.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the energy sector! During interviews, share why you’re excited about working in energy and how you see yourself contributing to NESO's mission. Authentic enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and know where to find opportunities. Get your application in early to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Power System Engineer - Higher Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Trainee Power System Engineer role. We want to see your passion for energy and engineering, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As strong communicators are key for this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey ideas clearly. Whether it’s through your cover letter or CV, let us see how you can work well with others.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your GCSEs, A-levels, or any relevant BTECs or HNCs. We’re looking for candidates who meet our entry requirements, so make sure these qualifications stand out in your application.
Apply Early!: We recommend applying as soon as possible since spaces are limited. Head over to our website to submit your application and kickstart your journey with NESO. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Energy System Operator
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the basics of power systems and electrical engineering. Familiarise yourself with key concepts that are relevant to the role, like energy networks and system operations. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness to dive into the technical aspects of the job.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past, especially those related to teamwork or technical issues. Think of examples where you used analytical tools or made decisions based on data. This will demonstrate your proactive and resilient nature, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme, the teams you'll work with, or the future of energy systems. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. NESO values diversity and inclusion, so being authentic will help you connect with the interviewers. Show them your passion for the energy sector and your eagerness to learn and grow.