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- Tasks: Join us to shape the future of energy with hands-on substation engineering experience.
- Company: National Grid, a leader in the UK energy network and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, 26 days holiday, and accommodation support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Power Systems Engineering or related field.
- Other info: Dynamic graduate programme with tailored development and mentorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36640 - 36640 £ per year.
About Us
National Grid is at the heart of the UK energy network keeping people connected and society moving. We develop, own and maintain the physical infrastructure, such as pylons and cables needed to move the electricity generated from windfarms and power sources around the country. Every time a phone is plugged in, or a switch is turned on, we’ve played a part, connecting you to the electricity you need – and we’re leading the transformation towards a greener future, dreaming bigger to bring a more affordable energy future to everyone.
But it’s our people that provide our true superpower. They drive and sustain our growth, their unique differences only making us stronger. So, join us and power the future of energy.
About The Role
As the owners of England and Wales' electricity transmission network, we’re at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition. We’re looking for bright, ambitious engineering graduates to help us build a greener, more resilient energy future. We offer a unique, immersive two-year programme with hands-on substation engineering experience, while being paid. You’ll work on real-world projects that directly impact how electricity is delivered across the country for the next 40 to 50 years.
From day one, you’ll be part of a team delivering essential work — from maintaining and refurbishing high-voltage assets to connecting new customers and integrating renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the grid. You’ll rotate through a variety of projects and teams, gaining exposure to design, construction, commissioning and fault response. By the end of the programme, you’ll step into a full-time role as a Substation Engineer, equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead teams and make critical decisions.
Some Of Your Key Responsibilities Will Include:
- Testing equipment and systems, including safety, protection and control mechanisms
- Supporting substation maintenance, refurbishment and fault diagnosis
- Assisting your Operations Manager and wider team in delivering key projects
- Developing into the role of Project Leader (PL), with a focus on commercial delivery and safety
- Leading teams of fitters and contractors, ensuring safe systems of work, risk assessments, method statements and toolbox talks are in place
- Monitoring and progressing contracts for unlicensed customers and contractor-delivered work
- Taking on site delivery responsibilities, including acting as Temporary Works Co-ordinator and Principal Contractor under CDM regulations
- Participating in a standby rota for emergency callouts — with additional pay for your availability and expertise
Throughout The Programme
- Build deep technical knowledge of substation systems and high-voltage equipment
- Learn how to manage safety-critical work and uphold National Grid’s Safety Rules
- Gain leadership experience and work towards becoming a Senior Authorised Person (SAP)
- Develop the skills to lead on-site teams, manage contractors, and deliver complex engineering projects
- Receive structured training at our dedicated centre in Eakring, Nottingham, alongside on-the-job learning across your regional base
- Contribute to strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives across the business
This isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to shape the future of energy in the UK. The decisions you make and the work you deliver will help ensure the safe, reliable transmission of electricity for generations to come.
Our Graduate Programme
As you’ll be joining our 24-month graduate programme, you’ll have a tailored development pathway to support you as you develop a wide range of leadership, business and technical skills. You’ll attend in-person and virtual development sessions throughout your programme to equip you with the essential skills required, as you begin your career at National Grid. You’ll also have access to 121 coaching and a mentor from a previous cohort to help you transition from campus to corporate life. All graduates complete the core development programme to develop key skills such as making an impact, giving feedback and presentation skills. The Engineering pathway will help you develop technical skills and learning modules such as working safely. If relevant, you may access Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and support from a National Grid IET mentor to help you pursue chartership. You’ll be assigned to a substation location within the region to deepen your understanding of your specialty and broaden your knowledge of the business. At the end of the 24-month programme you’ll return to your initial placement area to kickstart your career.
What you’ll Need to Apply
You should achieve, or be working towards, a minimum 2:2 in a degree based on electrical principles, such as Mechanical/Electrical/Power Systems Engineering or a closely related discipline. It does not matter when you graduated or if you are currently working towards your qualification; we just need you to be eager to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.
Due to travel to site locations, you’ll need a full valid UK driving licence or have completed your theory test (and have a practical test booked) at the time of your assessment centre. You must be willing to travel within the role and throughout your graduate development programme rotations to various sites such as substations, depots and training centres.
Location
Due to operational requirements, you must live within a 30-minute drive of ME3 9NT. You will be asked to provide evidence of this in your application. This role is based in Kent - ME3 9NT and you’ll travel regularly around the region. Travel includes frequent visits to substations, depots and other sites, regular travel to our training centre in Eakring, Nottingham, and occasional cross-regional travel.
What You’ll Get In Return
We are proud to offer a graduate starting salary of £36,640.
Benefits
We offer a tailored development programme to progress a superpowered career at National Grid, with a range of rewards and benefits including:
- £2,000 bonus on joining the programme
- 26 days of holiday
- £2,400 payment on successful completion of the programme
- Accommodation allowance up to £200 per month while you move between placements, plus assistance with moving personal belongings
- Pension and share-option schemes, Flexible Benefits, mentorship and volunteering opportunities
More Information
You can only apply for one graduate opportunity during this recruitment cycle. We recruit on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close vacancies when we have enough applications. Assessment centres will be held between November and April 2026. National Grid is open to all applicants who meet eligibility criteria, including right to work in the UK. Sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based system is not typically offered, except in exceptional circumstances where specialist skills are clearly required. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality or ethnic origin. For visa information, visit the UK government site.
National Grid is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. We offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office as needed. All offers are based on right to work in the UK, qualifications, and business need.
2026 Graduate Substation Engineer South East (Kent), Asset Operations in Grain employer: National Grid
Contact Detail:
National Grid Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer South East (Kent), Asset Operations in Grain
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching National Grid and understanding their projects. Practice common interview questions and think about how your skills align with their mission. Remember, we want to see your passion for engineering and how you can contribute to a greener future!
✨Showcase Your Skills
Bring your A-game by showcasing relevant projects or experiences during interviews. Whether it’s a university project or an internship, we want to see how you’ve applied your knowledge in real-world situations. Don’t forget to highlight any teamwork or leadership roles you’ve taken on!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance at landing the role. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for the position. Plus, you’ll get all the latest updates directly from us!
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer South East (Kent), Asset Operations in Grain
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Energy: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the energy sector shine through. We want to see how excited you are about contributing to a greener future and how your background aligns with our mission at National Grid.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we do!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly understand why you’re a great fit for the Graduate Substation Engineer role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your electrical principles and substation engineering knowledge. Familiarise yourself with National Grid's role in the energy sector and be ready to discuss how your degree aligns with their mission of a greener future.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for renewable energy and the impact it has on society. Share any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and innovation in engineering.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to the team and the company's goals.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence. Focus on articulating your experiences clearly and concisely, especially regarding teamwork and leadership, as these are key aspects of the role.
