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- Tasks: Lead high voltage substation projects and ensure safety in all operations.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in energy transmission with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £31,310, 26 days leave, pension scheme, and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Two A-Levels including Maths or Physics, or relevant BTEC qualification.
- Other info: Enjoy a structured apprenticeship with excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 18600 - 18600 £ per year.
Ensuring the future of electricity transmission.
Responsibilities
- Deliver all works with safety at the heart of actions and decisions.
- Demonstrate safety behaviours by following processes, rules, and speaking up where things don’t look right.
- Lead teams of fitters and contractors on high voltage substation projects, ensuring they are set to work correctly, including provision of risk assessments and method statements, and that toolbox talks take place.
- Manage, monitor and review progress on safety-critical works.
- Undertake site delivery activities as the appointed temporary works co-ordinator and principal contractor as defined in CDM regulations, and help keep the UK’s electricity network running smoothly.
- Join a standby rota for emergency call-outs, earning additional payments for expertise and availability.
Requirements / Qualifications
- You’ll have two A-Levels, including Maths or Physics graded C or above, or a BTEC that includes a Maths or Engineering module.
- A valid UK driving licence that allows you to drive three months before your start date.
- Ability to live away from home during training; primarily at our Eakring Training Centre in Nottinghamshire, with time in Loughborough for Higher National Certificate in Electrical Power Protection and Plant Commissioning. Typically on-site Monday to Thursday with weekends at home. The time at Eakring reduces as you progress through the programme.
- Eligibility: National Grid’s Apprenticeship programme in the UK is open to applicants who meet criteria including right to work in the UK. In most cases sponsorship under the UK points-based immigration system is not offered; exceptional circumstances may be considered.
About National Grid / Benefits
National Grid is at the heart of the energy future, with around 30,000 colleagues. We join the dots to get energy from A to B. We focus on building a cleaner, greener future and provide inclusive, flexible support. All employment is decided on qualifications and business need.
We offer a three-year Higher Apprenticeship Substations programme with a starting salary of £31,310, leading to a Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Power Network Electrical Power Protection & Plant Commissioning. You’ll gain practical experience, with a permanent job on completion. Yearly progression: Year 1 ~75%, Year 2 ~50%, Year 3 ~25%.
What you’ll get includes:
- 26 days annual leave plus statutory holidays
- Our double-matched pension contribution scheme
- Option to buy discounted National Grid shares
- One professional membership subscription
National Grid also offers discounts via the My Discounts scheme and supports personal and professional development through structured training and a tailored Personal Development Plan.
2026 Substation Engineer, Higher Apprentice North West Cheshire (Chester), Asset Operations employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Substation Engineer, Higher Apprentice North West Cheshire (Chester), Asset Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or at industry events. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing a role with National Grid.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge related to substations and safety protocols. We want to see that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! Since you'll be leading teams of fitters and contractors, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects during your interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the National Grid family.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Substation Engineer, Higher Apprentice North West Cheshire (Chester), Asset Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Safety: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your commitment to safety. We want to see how you prioritise safety in your work and decision-making, as it's a key part of the role.
Tailor Your Experience: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates tailor their experience to match the job description. Mention any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your skills in managing teams and delivering safety-critical works.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make sure your qualifications and experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. 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 Safety Protocols
Since safety is a top priority for the role, make sure you understand the key safety behaviours and protocols relevant to high voltage substation projects. Be ready to discuss how you've demonstrated safety in past experiences or how you would approach safety on the job.
✨Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills
As you'll be leading teams of fitters and contractors, think about examples where you've successfully led a team or project. Prepare to talk about how you manage people, ensure they are set to work correctly, and how you handle challenges that arise during projects.
✨Understand the Technical Requirements
Brush up on your knowledge of electrical power protection and plant commissioning. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, especially your A-Levels or BTEC, and how they relate to the technical aspects of the role. This will show your commitment and readiness for the apprenticeship.
✨Be Ready for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Given the nature of the job, you might face situational questions during the interview. Think about potential scenarios you could encounter on-site and how you would respond. This will demonstrate your critical thinking skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
