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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to maintain and repair a diverse fleet of vehicles while earning a qualification.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in electricity distribution with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual leave, pension scheme, and hands-on training.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in mechanics with real-world experience and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; passion for learning is essential.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are core values; apply early as positions may close quickly.
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. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable future. In fleet our 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. NGED own and operate one of the largest in-house maintained fleets in the UK, which includes industry leading volumes of EV adoption and ownership. Our Transport team consists of over 100 colleagues, this includes a network of 33 Transport Workshops across our regions and a dedicated back-office fleet administration department.
About The Role
Our Vehicle Mechanic Apprenticeship Programme takes approximately 3.5 years to complete. During this time, you’ll earn while you learn, developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to become a qualified Vehicle Mechanic and your training will include:
- On-the-job experience at one of our Fleet workshops, working alongside experienced and qualified Mechanics.
- Automotive Technical college attendance, which includes either weekly college day release or block release study periods throughout the year.
- In-house training and development at one of NGED's internal training centres.
- Achievement of a Level 3 Qualification in Light Vehicle Mechanics.
A vehicle Mechanic uses their mechanical skills and knowledge to ensure that our fleet is operational 24/7 - 365, thus enabling our teams to deliver a service to the communities and customers we serve. That means taking responsibility for safety, ensuring legal compliance and delivering it all cost-effectively. As part of your apprenticeship, you’ll gain hands-on experience across a wide range of tasks which will include the repair and maintenance of our diverse fleet of vehicles, plant, and ancillary equipment.
What You’ll Be Involved In
- Electric and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles
- Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)
- Cranes, Loaders, Generators, and Trailers
- Preparing and presenting vehicles for annual testing to ensure roadworthiness and compliance.
- Road testing, fault diagnosis, and repairs using the latest diagnostic tools and technologies.
- Attending breakdowns, including the recovery of broken down or accident-damaged vehicles.
- Fabrication and modification of vehicles, including welding and other mechanical techniques.
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. 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 GCSEs A*-C/9-4 or Level 2 qualifications in any subject.
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. 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’re not able to provide advice on this.
2026 Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Ty Coch) employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Ty Coch)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research National Grid and understand their values, especially around sustainability and community service. This will help you connect your passion for mechanics with their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. You’ll need to chat with customers and colleagues alike, so role-play common scenarios with friends or family. This will boost your confidence and help you shine in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past where you tackled a tricky situation, whether it was fixing something at home or helping a friend. Be ready to share these stories in your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at National Grid. Don’t forget to submit your application early!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Vehicle Mechanic Advanced Apprenticeship, National Grid Energy Distribution (Ty Coch)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your passion for mechanics and your eagerness to learn.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for. Mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your mechanical skills and problem-solving abilities.
Check Your Details: Before hitting that submit button, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A clean, well-presented application shows us that you pay attention to detail, which is super important in this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship programme there!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical knowledge, especially about electric and internal combustion engine vehicles. Familiarise yourself with the types of vehicles you'll be working on, like HGVs and cranes. This will show your passion for the role and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be interacting with customers and colleagues, practice how to communicate clearly and effectively. Think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team or resolved a customer issue. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with others, which is crucial for this role.
✨Safety First!
Understand the importance of safety in the workplace. Be prepared to discuss safety protocols and why they matter in a mechanics' environment. Showing that you prioritise safety will impress the interviewers and highlight your readiness for the job.
✨Be Curious and Problem-Solving Minded
Demonstrate your curiosity and willingness to learn by asking insightful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the work environment. Share any experiences where you've tackled a problem or learned something new. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in growing your skills.
