At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our apprenticeship to learn hands-on skills in electrical engineering and network operations.
- Company: Be part of National Grid, powering communities across the UK.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay and a fully funded qualification.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on energy distribution while developing your career.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; passion for learning is key.
About us
We’re National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver 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.
Net-zero targets are transforming the way we work and increasing the scope of the positive impact we can make. Right now, we’re looking for apprentices to join us.
Our people in Network Services work across a number of teams to keep the lights on for our customers. They might be helping a customer who has lost supply or supporting a developer building a multi-million pound project.
They maintain a 24/7 service from faults and maintenance, asset replacement to new connections, working outdoors with underground cables, overhead lines and substations that operate between 230 and 132,000 volts; their work is critical to everything we do.
About The Role
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.
Join us, and we’ll see you participate in craft skills activities on the LV, HV and EHV (Low, High & Extremely high voltage) network. You’ll help with network operations, connect generators and services and organise your own projects. You’ll also:
- 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
- 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.
- Due to the nature of this role, applicants for this position must be at least 18 years of age by the start date of the programme (1st September 2026).
Our minimum entry criteria require the following qualifications (held or predicted):
- GCSE English 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 2026. Please note that we are unable to accommodate any annual leave during these first 12 weeks of training.
Operationally we require you to live within approximately 30 minutes 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.
What You’ll Get
Joining the UK’s leading electricity distribution business means plenty of career opportunities and well-deserved recognition. We reward hard work and encourage ambition, which is why we offer a competitive starting salary of £18,514. You will then see your salary increase as you become more experienced, following the timeline below:
- Year 2 - £24,938
- Year 2½ (Development role) - £32,473
- Year 3 - £37,770
- Completion - £43,491
In addition to this, you will also receive the following benefits:
- 23 days annual leave (26 upon completion of training) + statutory holidays
- Competitive pension scheme (Double matched up to 12%) and Sharesave options
- Earn whilst you learn and receive a fully funded qualification
- Develop well-rounded skills, learning from experienced and qualified professionals in the industry
- Employee Assistance Programme is there to take care of you and includes musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services if you need them
- Protective clothing and safety equipment supplied
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.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should sufficient numbers of suitable applications be received, so it would be best to apply as soon as you can.
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 https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas.
2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Leicester/Kettering) employer: NATIONAL GRID LIMITED
At National Grid Electricity Distribution, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the growth and development of our apprentices. With a competitive starting salary, comprehensive training, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, we offer a supportive work culture where you can thrive while making a meaningful impact in your community. Join us in Leicester/Kettering, where you'll not only earn while you learn but also enjoy excellent benefits and opportunities for career advancement in the energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Leicester/Kettering)
✨Get Hands-On Experience
If you’re looking to break into the skilled trades, seek out volunteer opportunities or part-time gigs that let you flex your hands-on skills. Local community projects or workshops can give you some valuable experience and show potential employers your commitment and passion for the trade!
✨Join Trade Associations
Diving into local trade associations is a great way to connect with professionals in your field. These organisations often host events, training sessions, and networking opportunities that can put you right in front of hiring companies—who knows, you might even bump into someone from NATIONAL GRID LIMITED!
✨Leverage Your Connections
Talk to friends, family, and acquaintances about your apprenticeship search. Sometimes, the best gigs come from word-of-mouth referrals. Let everyone know you’re on the hunt; you’d be surprised at who might have a contact in the industry!
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Make sure to check out NATIONAL GRID LIMITED's career page for the latest apprenticeship openings. We always have various roles available, and applying directly through our site can help you stand out as a candidate eager to start learning and working with us!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Leicester/Kettering)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:In skilled trades, your hands-on abilities say a lot. Be sure to highlight any relevant experience you've had—whether that's in school, past jobs, or personal projects. If you've got a knack for a certain technique or trade, make it shine on your CV!
Certifications Count!:If you’ve got any relevant certifications or training, don’t hesitate to showcase them. Details like your health and safety qualifications or any specific trade courses you've completed can set you apart from the competition. Just make sure they’re super clear and easy to find on your application!
Express Your Enthusiasm:For an apprenticeship, your motivation is key. Use your cover letter to explain why you’re eager to learn and grow in your chosen trade. Talk about what excites you about the industry and how working at NATIONAL GRID LIMITED can help you achieve your goals.
Tailor Your Application for NATIONAL GRID LIMITED:When you’re applying, make sure to personalise your application for NATIONAL GRID LIMITED. Do a bit of research on the company’s values and goals in skilled trades, and mention how your aspirations and values align with theirs. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely keen on joining their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at NATIONAL GRID LIMITED
✨Show Off Your Hands-On Skills
As we're diving into the skilled trades for your apprenticeship, make sure you highlight any practical experience you’ve had. Whether you’ve done DIY projects or worked with tools before, let them know how comfortable you are getting your hands dirty and solving real-world problems.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Expect a hands-on assessment during the interview or as part of your apprenticeship application. You might be asked to demonstrate a specific skill or technique relevant to the trade—so brush up on your practical skills and come prepared to showcase what you’ve got!
✨Learn About the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and equipment used in your trade before the interview. They might ask about your experience with certain tools or methods, so having a basic understanding and mentioning any tools you’ve used can really set you apart.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, showing your eagerness to learn is crucial! Talk about your motivation for joining the industry and any steps you've taken to educate yourself, like online resources or workshops, to demonstrate you’re ready to grow with the company.
