Innovation and Deployment Engineer

We have an exciting opportunity for an Interim Innovation & Deployment Engineer (12‑month contract) to join our Innovation team, based in either Bristol or Castle Donington. The Innovation leads a diverse portfolio of research, development, and capability‑scale‑up projects designed to transform how we operate and manage our electricity network. Through this work, we develop the knowledge, skills, technologies and commercial processes NGED will need to be ready for the future.

In this interim role, you will predominantly support operationally focused projects, including the deployment of new technologies on the electricity network to enhance our storm response and wider operational performance. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with an operational background who want to shape the future of our network and influence how new technology is introduced. We are looking for someone who is motivated to build the capabilities that electricity networks will rely on in the years ahead and who strives for excellence in all aspects of their work. The role can be based in Bristol or Castle Donington and requires a willingness to travel to various sites as needed. We offer hybrid working, with attendance at the office expected at least once per week. Please note that there may be occasions where you will be required to spend more time away from home—such as attending site visits, events or conferences—depending on the needs of the projects you are supporting.

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. National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. We are building an inclusive workplace, a place to actively celebrate the cultures, personalities and preferences of our colleagues – who in turn help to build the success of our business and reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast-moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources that are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.

Main Responsibilities:

• Planning, development and delivery of innovation and roll out projects of all sizes and scopes.
• Management of research, development and capability roll out projects in accordance with Ofgem governance and NGED policies.
• Assisting colleagues in various internal NGED teams to develop, trial, disseminate and adopt relevant solutions.
• Leading the application for funding from Ofgem innovation incentive schemes and other sources across all sizes of bid.
• Representing NGED at national level in ENA, Ofgem and Government department meetings.
• Developing and reviewing NGED policies relating to innovation to maintain legal and regulatory compliance.
• Detailed reporting of projects and proposals in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Essential skills and experience:

• A degree in an engineering discipline (preferred), or significant experience in distribution network investment or operations supported by a BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering.
• A solid understanding of UK electricity transmission and distribution assets, associated procedures, safety requirements, performance drivers, cost considerations and relevant legislation.
• Excellent organisational, planning and prioritisation abilities, with the resilience to work under pressure and deliver on time.
• A willingness and ability to travel across all four of the company’s licence areas.
• A full UK driving licence.

Aptitudes that will help you succeed:

• Develop detailed project plans for research and development initiatives, managing uncertainty and risk in areas where tasks may be entirely new.
• Create robust project plans for business‑wide capability rollouts.
• Prepare cost–benefit assessments to support funding and investment decisions.
• Monitor project progress effectively, ensuring delivery against objectives and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks.
• Critically evaluate emerging technologies and methods, ensuring alignment with both strategic priorities and operational needs.

Benefits:

• 26 days paid leave plus 8 bank holidays, up to 28 days with continuous service.
• Competitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%).
• Annual Share Save plan.
• Life assurance x 4 annual salary.
• Contributory private healthcare scheme for you and your family.
• Support via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services.
• Free on‑site parking at all our main sites.

National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers. This role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service (DBS) check, depending on the role different levels of screening and vetting are required. Some roles require a triannual check. Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points‑based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points‑based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin. As an equal opportunities employer who is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, we celebrate individual difference and are actively bringing in more employees from diverse backgrounds to build on our inclusive culture.