At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to learn and work on exciting electrical projects outdoors.
- Company: National Grid, a leader in electricity distribution across the UK.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with competitive pay and great perks.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; passion for learning is key.
2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Taunton/Crewkerne)
Join to apply for the 2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Taunton/Crewkerne) role at National Grid.
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‑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.
Skills
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; you may be speaking with customers or with colleagues and internal stakeholders.
- As you’ll be working outdoors, you need to be adventurous and driven to work in all weather.
- Safety awareness is a must; you will follow safety instructions, use protective equipment and wear protective clothing, and meet deadlines.
- You’ll be resilient and willing to learn, genuinely passionate about your career and committed to studying; curious problem solvers thrive here.
- Applicants 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 GCSEs 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. Electrical Installation qualifications are not accepted as an equivalent to Electrical Engineering qualifications and you will need to meet the minimum entry requirements detailed above. Evidence of 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. We are unable to accommodate annual leave during the first 12 weeks of training. Operationally, you must live within approximately 30 minutes of the depot you are applying for. Please submit only one application.
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. Your salary will 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 – musculoskeletal, physiotherapy services and more
- 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. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and are happy to discuss any adjustments you require.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if sufficient numbers of suitable applications are received.
National Grid’s Apprenticeship programme in the UK is open to all applicants who meet the eligibility criteria, including a valid right to work in the UK. As part of the application process this must be evidenced and verified before you can start the programme.
Applicants are not eligible for visa sponsorship, and it is your responsibility to explore routes to work in the UK. For information about visas please visit https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas
2026 Jointer Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Taunton/Crewkerne) employer: National Grid
National Grid Electricity Distribution is an exceptional employer, offering a robust apprenticeship programme that combines hands-on experience with formal training, ensuring you develop into a skilled Power Networks Craftsperson. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive salaries, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, you'll thrive in a role that not only contributes to the community but also provides ample 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 (Taunton/Crewkerne)
✨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!
✨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'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 (Taunton/Crewkerne)
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 can help you achieve your goals.
Tailor Your Application for National Grid:When you’re applying, make sure to personalise your application for National Grid. 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
✨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.
