At a Glance
- Tasks: Support major infrastructure projects and collaborate with teams to ensure successful delivery.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in the energy sector focused on a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £31,310, 26 days leave, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working and opportunities for career growth within a diverse team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's clean energy transition while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Minimum five GCSEs including English, Maths, and a Science; driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 26300 - 36000 £ per year.
About the Role
The Project Manager Higher Apprentice role is based within our Strategic Infrastructure Team (SI), a new team that has been set up to deliver 17 new major projects in the UK, as well as other strategic projects to help us deliver on our net zero ambitions and help the UK Government meet its target of 50GW of renewable energy by 2030. Our aim is to help the UK switch to clean energy and make sure our electricity network is fit for the future; carrying more clean, secure energy from where it's generated to where you need it. As a Project Manager Higher Apprentice, you would play a crucial role in enabling us to do this.
Within this role you'll gain experience in all aspects of health and safety management, quality management, collaborating with contractors, and programme management including:
- Supporting Project Managers and their operational teams to help deliver projects successfully from start to finish.
- Assisting with communication and site coordination between contractors, third parties and internal teams, helping to build a strong safety culture in line with National Grid standards.
- Contributing to weekly reports, attending project meetings, and helping manage essential project documentation.
- Supporting the team in ensuring all safety and quality standards are followed throughout the project lifecycle.
- Gaining experience in tracking project milestones, contributing to planning and programme management activities, and supporting the oversight of contractor performance to ensure key project deliverables are met.
Location for this role
This role is based in the London office and offers flexible, hybrid working. Within the role you will support the delivery of one of our major infrastructure projects within SI, and therefore you will be required to live within a 45-60-minute commutable distance of the following postcode: NW1 1JD. You will be required to travel to our site locations, annually you are expected to travel more than 10,000 miles for business.
About You
You will have a minimum of five GCSEs with grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, Maths, and a Science (or equivalent). Have or be predicated to achieve two A-Levels at grade C or above including one STEM subject OR BTEC National Certificate OR Diploma Level 3 in a STEM discipline at Grade Merit or Distinction. A driving licence is required for this role so if you do not already have one you must have obtained one by 31st May 2026. You will be flexible to travel when required within this role, this will include frequent overnight stays away from home in pre-booked accommodation. You don't need prior work experience; the determination and will to succeed is far more important as we will teach you everything you need to know. The role will provide you with a variety of skills including transferrable skills to support your career development within National Grid.
What You'll Get
We are proud to offer a starting salary of £31,310 for this apprenticeship which will increase annually. As a first step to your career in the energy industry, our Higher Apprenticeship programmes are like no other! You'll gain an insight into how we work at National Grid, understand what a career with us can offer, and receive some great rewards and benefits:
- Upon successful completion of your two year apprenticeship you will achieve a nationally recognised accredited qualification, Level 4 Qualification in Associate Project Management.
- 26 days annual leave + statutory holidays.
- Pension scheme and sharesave options.
- Flexible benefits including cycle to work, buy/sell holiday to name a few.
- Opportunity to enrol in our sharesave/share incentive plans.
- You'll develop well-rounded skills through practical experience.
- A permanent position upon successful completion of your Apprenticeship.
About Us
National Grid is at the heart of the energy future, and our people are at the heart of National Grid. We're 30,000 colleagues strong. In the UK, National Grid doesn't generate or sell energy - we join the dots to get energy from A to B. From making a cup of tea in the morning, to keeping the lights on in hospitals, our electricity network puts power in the hands of people. Without it, the world as we know it would grind to a halt. The world of energy is changing beyond recognition as we focus on building a cleaner, greener future. Working at National Grid, you'll not just be touching the lives of almost everyone in the UK - you'll be shaping the way we use and consume energy for generations to come.
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.
Further Information
You can only apply for one Apprenticeship opportunity during this recruitment cycle. We recruit on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close our vacancies once we have enough applications/based on volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure you obtain the place you want in the application process. Assessment centres will be held between January - April 2026. 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. 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. 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 Project Manager Higher Apprentice,Strategic Infrastructure, Central London employer: National Grid
National Grid is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to kickstart your career in the energy sector through our Project Manager Higher Apprentice role. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will gain invaluable skills and experience while contributing to vital infrastructure projects aimed at achieving net zero ambitions. Our inclusive work culture, competitive salary, and flexible benefits, combined with the chance for permanent employment upon completion of your apprenticeship, make us an attractive choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in Central London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 Project Manager Higher Apprentice,Strategic Infrastructure, Central London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research National Grid and its projects, especially those related to renewable energy. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions. Think about how your skills align with the role of Project Manager Higher Apprentice and be ready to share examples of teamwork and problem-solving.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 Project Manager Higher Apprentice,Strategic Infrastructure, Central London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Clean Energy:When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about the energy sector and our mission to achieve net zero. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your interest in renewable energy!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences, even if they’re from school projects or extracurricular activities. We want to see how you can contribute to our Strategic Infrastructure Team!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your potential!
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute! Apply as soon as you can through our website. This way, you’ll have a better chance of securing your spot in the application process. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Know Your Projects
Familiarise yourself with the major projects National Grid is currently working on, especially those related to renewable energy. Understanding the specifics of these projects will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your STEM Skills
Since a STEM background is essential for this role, be ready to discuss how your academic achievements in subjects like Maths or Science relate to project management. Think of examples where you've applied these skills in practical situations, even if they are from school projects.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Safety is a big deal in project management, especially in infrastructure. Be prepared to talk about any experiences you have with health and safety protocols, whether in school, work experience, or even during group activities. Showing that you understand the importance of safety culture will set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, specific projects you'll be involved in, or how National Grid supports apprentices in their career development. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.