Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to maintain and refurbish high-voltage assets while integrating renewable energy sources.
- Company: National Grid, a leader in the UK energy network driving towards a greener future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, 26 days holiday, and accommodation support during placements.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in substation engineering and lead projects that make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; valid UK driving licence required.
- Other info: Dynamic two-year programme with structured training and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36640 - 40900 £ per year.
2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations
Join to apply for the 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations role at National Grid .
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 electricity generated from wind farms and power sources around the country, leading the transformation toward a greener future.
About The Role
We are looking for bright, ambitious engineering graduates to help us build a greener, more resilient energy future. You will be part of a team delivering essential work – from maintaining and refurbishing high‑voltage assets to connecting new customers and integrating renewable energy sources. The programme is a unique, immersive two‑year programme that gives you hands‑on experience in substation engineering while being paid.
Key Responsibilities
- Testing equipment and systems, including safety, protection, and control mechanisms
- Supporting substation maintenance, refurbishment, and fault diagnosis
- Assisting your Operations Manager and wider team in delivering key projects
- Developing into the role of Project Leader (PL), with a focus on commercial delivery and safety
- Leading teams of fitters and contractors, ensuring safe systems of work, risk assessments, method statements, and toolbox talks are in place
- Monitoring and progressing contracts for unlicensed customers and contractor‑delivered work
- Taking on site delivery responsibilities, including acting as Temporary Works Co‑ordinator and Principal Contractor under CDM regulations
- Participating in a standby rota for emergency callouts – with additional pay for your availability and expertise
- Travel regularly to substations, depots and the training centre in Eakring, Nottingham
What You’ll Get In Return
- Build deep technical knowledge of substation systems and high‑voltage equipment
- Learn how to manage safety‑critical work and uphold National Grid’s Safety Rules
- Gain leadership experience and work towards becoming a Senior Authorised Person (SAP)
- Develop the skills to lead on‑site teams, manage contractors, and deliver complex engineering projects
- Receive structured training at our dedicated centre in Eakring, Nottingham, alongside on‑the‑job learning across your regional base
- Contribute to strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives across the business
Qualifications
- Minimum 2:2 in a degree based on electrical principals, such as Mechanical/Electrical/Power Systems Engineering or a closely related discipline – you can be working towards or completed your qualification
- Full valid UK driving licence, or with theory test completed and practical test booked at the time of your assessment centre
- Flexibility to travel within the role and throughout your graduate development programme rotations
- Location – you must live within a 30‑minute drive of CH1 6HE and provide evidence of this in your application
Salary
We are proud to offer a graduate starting salary of £36,640.
Benefits
- £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.
Assessment Centres
Assessment centres will be held between November and April 2026.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at National Grid on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Making connections can give us insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the assessment centre by practising common interview questions and technical scenarios related to substation engineering. We want to show them we’re not just book-smart but also ready to tackle real-world challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for renewable energy! During interviews, share any projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to sustainability. It’s all about aligning with their mission of building a greener future.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you ace the process.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Graduate Substation Engineer role. Highlight any relevant projects or coursework that showcase your engineering prowess and passion for renewable energy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're excited about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm for the energy sector come through.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves high-voltage systems, don’t forget to mention any technical skills or software you’re familiar with. If you've worked on related projects, share those experiences to demonstrate your hands-on knowledge.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your electrical engineering principles and the specifics of substation operations. Familiarise yourself with National Grid's role in the energy sector, especially their commitment to renewable energy. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working closely with teams, be ready to discuss your experiences in group projects or any leadership roles you've taken on. Highlight how you can contribute to a collaborative environment and ensure safety and efficiency in your work.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to face situational questions that assess your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge. Think about past experiences where you had to diagnose faults or manage projects, and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the graduate programme or the company's future projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
