At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to construct and maintain electrical power networks while earning a qualification.
- Company: Be part of National Grid, powering communities across South Wales.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual leave, pension scheme, and fully funded qualifications.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a vital industry with hands-on training and real impact.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; Level 3 Electrical Engineering accepted.
2026 Projects Fitter Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (South Wales)
Be among the first 25 applicants.
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.
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 Fitter. Following a formal assessment of your knowledge, skills and behaviours, you’ll become a qualified Fitter yourself.
Power Networks Fitter has responsibility for the safe construction, maintenance and repair of the electrical power network. You’ll work on distribution systems up to 132 kV. Fitters are fitting engineers who work in and around substations, using electrical knowledge and skills to install and maintain high voltage plant and apparatus including transformers, switchgear, and cable terminations.
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 live LV network, on dead LV, HV and EHV circuits (live HV circuits if part of a Hot Glove team). You’ll help with network operations. You’ll also:
- Construct distribution substations, install plant
- Carry out routine inspection, maintenance and repairs of substation and protection equipment
- Install and terminate secondary wiring (small wiring)
- Record asset routes, details and positions
- Record plant details
- Test earthing, voltage, phasing and phase rotation
- Write outage requests and switching programmes for simple outages
What You’ll Need
- Excellent communication skills; you could be speaking with customers one moment and with colleagues or internal stakeholders the next.
- 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 must be at least 18 years of age by the start date of the programme (1 September 2026).
Minimum Entry Criteria
- GCSE English at Grade A*–C (or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills English)
- GCSE Mathematics at Grade A*–C (or Level 2 Functional/Key Skills Maths)
- GCSE Science at Grade A*–C (or BTEC Science Level 2 equivalent)
- Two other GCSEs at Grade A*–C (or Level 2 qualifications in any subject)
Alternatively, you may apply with a recognised Level 3 qualification in Electrical Engineering plus GCSE Grade C/4 or above in Maths and English. Please note that 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.
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 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. 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) plus 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.
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 Projects Fitter Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (South Wales) in Cwmbran employer: National Grid
At National Grid Electricity Distribution, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our apprenticeship programme not only provides a competitive salary but also equips you with valuable skills and qualifications in a dynamic environment, all while contributing to our mission of delivering sustainable energy solutions to over 8 million people in South Wales. Join us to embark on a rewarding career path where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Projects Fitter Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (South Wales) in Cwmbran
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research National Grid and understand their values, mission, and the role of a Projects Fitter. This will help you tailor your conversations and show genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to electrical engineering and safety awareness. Mock interviews with friends or family can help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the National Grid team. Don’t miss out on being one of the first 25 applicants!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Projects Fitter Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (South Wales) in Cwmbran
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see that you're genuinely excited about becoming a Power Networks Craftsperson and contributing to our mission at National Grid.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background to what we do here at National Grid.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your application is easy to read. This will help us understand your qualifications and motivations quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps you stay updated on your application status. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of electrical engineering and the specific responsibilities of a Power Networks Fitter. Brush up on key concepts like voltage, circuit types, and safety protocols. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with customers and colleagues, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think of examples from your past experiences where you effectively communicated or solved problems. This will demonstrate your ability to work well in a team and handle customer interactions.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work. Familiarise yourself with common safety practices in electrical work and be ready to share any relevant experiences where you followed safety protocols or dealt with hazards.
✨Be Ready to Learn
Express your enthusiasm for learning and growing in the role. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past and your willingness to adapt. This will resonate well with the interviewers, as they are looking for resilient candidates who are eager to develop their skills.
