Technician in Bedlington

National Grid Interconnectors is at the heart of the UK's transition to our net zero energy future. We operate a number of HVDC Interconnectors that connect the UK's energy system to some of our closest neighbours, allowing energy to be imported to and exported from the UK. We are currently recruiting for a Technician for our NSL (North SeaLink) converter station in Bedlington.

As a Technician, you will have a critical role ensuring that interconnector assets (Converter Station, Cables Systems, Substation & associated Operational Technology) maintain the highest level of operational performance. You will carry out various maintenance and inspection works within the Interconnector High Voltage electricity Converter Station, working within a team following safe systems of work, sharing and gaining knowledge and expertise to ensure completion of maintenance, refurbishment or replacement works on a variety of plant and equipment across interconnector Operations. The role is based onsite at our NSL converter station in Bedlington, and you must have a full UK driving licence.

What you’ll do:

• Carry out installation, refurbishment, maintenance, fault investigation/repair and condition monitoring across all substation plant and equipment.
• Perform asset condition-based monitoring via means of electrical testing e.g. forms of partial discharge testing.
• Oil sampling, oil testing and general oil handling duties.
• Gas handling SF6 and Nitrogen systems.
• Thermographic imaging of the interconnector Assets.
• Perform both reactive and proactive maintenance on HV and LV assets.
• Aim to carry out all work on time and in full, as per the work programme.
• Proactively work towards eliminating all accidents by adopting risk assessment techniques, method statements and being aware of potential hazards and reporting all near misses.
• Provide mentoring and/or training to less experienced staff, regardless of grade.
• Utilise all relevant systems, including IS, email and paper-based, to record and access data in an accurate and timely manner.
• Carry out roles as defined in National Grid Ventures' Safety Rules of Competent Person.
• Carry out a lead role within the team i.e. Lifting Equipment management or PPE budget.
• Give early escalation to the Senior Site Engineer/Line Manager of variances to the plan.
• Drive safe collaborative working practices and accurate data and cost capture through the use of team hubs.
• Participation in a site call out rota on a periodic basis.
• Manage the interfaces with 3rd parties undertaking planned and unplanned works safely and efficiently.
• Deliver works and services across the Interconnectors Portfolio of IFA, IFA2, NSL and Viking Link sites.
• Delivery of works to time, quality and within SHE policies and procedures and safety rules.

What you’ll need:

• Good knowledge, experience and technical understanding of work and/or failures on HV & LV systems, encompassing both electrical and mechanical systems.
• Full UK drivers licence.
• A NVQ level 3 Qualification in engineering or equivalent, or an equivalent recognised apprenticeship.
• Health and Safety Qualification (IOSH or NEBOSH or equivalent) desirable.
• Demonstrate a self-help approach to common work-related problems, using IS systems to resolve them.
• Computer literacy on Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Foundation knowledge and experience of key Health, Safety and Environmental and Occupier legislation applicable within an operational environment and premises.
• Competent Person authorisation or working towards.
• Good communication skills with a Can do attitude.
• Ability to use an asset work management system like Ellipse/Maximo/Ultimo/IFS/etc.

What you’ll get:

A competitive salary between £43,315.00 - £47,137.00 per annum - dependent on capability. As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.

At National Grid, we work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.