At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop and deliver major electricity transmission projects for a greener future.
- Company: National Grid, a leader in the UK energy network, powering connections and sustainability.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £36,640, bonuses, 26 days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience through three placements across the UK with tailored development support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition while kick-starting your career.
- Qualifications: Pursuing or achieved a 2:2 in relevant engineering or computer science degree.
The predicted salary is between 36640 - 36640 £ per year.
About us
National Grid is at the heart of the UK energy network keeping people connected and society moving. We develop, own and maintain the physical infrastructure, such as pylons and cables needed to move the electricity generated from windfarms and power sources around the country. Every time a phone is plugged in, or a switch is turned on, we\'ve played a part, connecting you to the electricity you need - and we\'re leading the transformation towards a greener future, dreaming bigger to bring a more affordable energy future to everyone.
But it\'s our people that provide our true superpower. They drive and sustain our growth, their unique differences only making us stronger. But it\'s no small feat and we need the best to join us in our mission. So, join us and power the future of energy.
About The Role
Strategic Infrastructure delivers major strategic UK electricity transmission projects, focused on connecting more clean, low‑carbon power to England and Wales. Strategic Infrastructure is a part of National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) and is responsible for delivering 17 major new projects to connect more clean, low‑carbon power to the transmission network in England and Wales. These projects play a vital part in achieving the UK Government\'s ambition of connecting 50GW of offshore wind by 2030. They will be delivered under the regulator\'s Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) framework. As well as these 17 projects, Strategic Infrastructure will also focus on the early‑stage development of other strategic infrastructure that Ofgem has requested.
You’ll be part of our core Power System engineering team who identify the need and determine the electrical requirements for these critical projects. You’ll work in one of several areas across network planning, system access, detailed power quality analysis and network modelling. You will identify innovative options to develop the electricity transmission system, from network analysis through to specifying electrical requirements.
You will justify the requirements for infrastructure development and ensuring security of supply whilst ensuring our network remains robust in the face of changing demands. You will support the development and delivery of multi‑million‑pound infrastructure projects to enable the delivery of critical investment and replacement work on the network. You will also determine the impact of new technology connecting to the network whilst engaging with internal and external stakeholders at the centre of whole network planning.
Our Graduate Programme
As you’ll be joining our 18‑month graduate programme, you’ll have a tailored development pathway to support you as you develop a wide range of leadership, business, and technical skills. You’ll attend in‑person and virtual development sessions throughout your programme to equip you with the essential skills required, as you begin your career at National Grid. We’re committed to the personal development of our colleagues so as well as the support from your line manager as you navigate your new role, you’ll also have access to 121 coaching and a mentor, from a previous cohort to help you transition from campus to corporate life.
All graduates complete the core development programme to develop key skills such as how to make an impact, giving feedback and presentation skills. Aligned to this role is our Engineering pathway and as part of this you’ll develop further key technical skills aligned to your role as well as important learning modules such as working safely. If relevant to your career aspirations, you will be able to access Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and seek support from a National Grid IET mentor to help you secure your chartership.
We believe in the importance of getting as much on‑the‑job experience as possible and to do this, you will complete three 6‑month placements, across the UK, designed to deepen your understanding of your speciality but to also broaden your knowledge of our business. At the end of your 18‑month programme you’ll return to your initial placement area to kick‑start your superpowered career.
What you’ll need to apply
You’ll need to achieve, or be working towards, a minimum 2:2 in an Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Power (System) Engineering, Energy Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineer, Computer Engineer or Computer Science related degree. It doesn’t matter when you graduated or if you are currently working towards your qualification. We just need you to be eager to apply your knowledge in a real‑world setting.
Due to the amount of travel to our site locations, you’ll need to currently have a full valid UK driving licence at point of application that allows you to drive in the UK. You’ll need flexibility to travel within role and throughout your rotations as required and in order to carry out the requirements of this role you’ll need to travel to sites, substations, depots and our training centres.
Location
This role is based Carrington, Manchester. You’ll be expected to travel around this region as part of your role. We offer flexible hybrid working, where possible.
What You’ll Get In Return
We are proud to offer a graduate starting salary of £36,640
Not only will you receive a tailored development programme to progress a superpowered career at National Grid, we also offer some great rewards and benefits too:
- £2,000 bonus, once joined and started on programme
- 26 days holiday
- £2,400 payment on successful completion of the programme
- Up to £200 per month accommodation allowance as you move around the business, and additional annual leave for when you move between placements plus assistance with moving personal belongings
- Other benefits include pension and share‑option schemes, Flexible Benefits, close mentorship and regular feedback & volunteering opportunities.
More Information
You can only apply for one graduate opportunity during this recruitment cycle. We kindly ask that you review all our graduate opportunities and apply for the one that aligns closest with your aspirations and interests.
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 November - April 2026
National Grid’s Graduate & Student 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. For information about visas please visit https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas
At National Grid, it’s our people that provide our true superpower. They drive and sustain our growth, their unique differences only making us stronger, so we pride ourselves on placing diversity, equity and inclusion at the heart of who we are and what we do and are committed to building a workforce of the future which represents the communities we serve. We welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office where and when needed. All our offers are based on the right to work in the UK, qualifications, the innovation from creating diverse teams and perspectives, as well as business need.
#Graduateopportunities2026
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2026 Graduate Power Systems Engineer, Strategic Infrastructure in Manchester employer: National Grid
At National Grid, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. With competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and a robust pension scheme, we ensure our employees are well rewarded for their contributions. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion, along with flexible working arrangements, empowers our team members to thrive both personally and professionally in the heart of the UK's energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Graduate Power Systems Engineer, Strategic Infrastructure in Manchester
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughNational Grid's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through National Grid's website for the full-time 2026 Graduate Power Systems Engineer, Strategic Infrastructure role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Graduate Power Systems Engineer, Strategic Infrastructure in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at National Grid. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of National Grid.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to National Grid.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
