At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our 27-month programme to gain hands-on experience in the energy industry.
- Company: Northern Powergrid powers 8 million people across the North East and Yorkshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, industry-recognised qualification, and diverse career opportunities.
- Other info: Full UK driving licence required; excellent career growth awaits!
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy with innovative technology.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in STEM or relevant Level 4/5 qualification with experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 45000 £ per year.
Want to help light up the region, power your career and be part of an evolving energy industry? We’re looking for aspiring and ambitious individuals who are ready to join our highly competitive Graduate and Technical Trainee Programme and want to put learning into practice to take their career to the next level.
Northern Powergrid is the company responsible for the electricity network that powers everyday life for 8 million people across 3.9 million homes and businesses in the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire. The energy industry is advancing with investment in smart technology innovation, and we are delivering a power network that meets the region’s needs now and in the future.
We’re looking to attract a diverse group of high calibre individuals to join our business to help us improve our power network and deliver a low carbon active network for future generations. Our Graduate and Technical Trainee Programme is a 27-month programme. Through a variety of structured placements and personal and professional development, you’ll see different areas of the business across a variety of locations. You will also complete an industry recognised qualification in the form of the Level 4 Electrical Power Network Engineer Apprenticeship. This is a fantastic qualification, designed by experienced industry professionals. At the end of the programme, you’ll have everything you need to be a brilliant distribution network engineer within Northern Powergrid whether that’s in a field-based or office-based role.
Responsibilities and opportunities
- Participate in a structured 27-month programme with placements across different areas of the business and locations, gaining broad exposure to how the power network operates.
- Complete the Level 4 Electrical Power Network Engineer Apprenticeship and develop the competencies to become a distribution network engineer in field-based or office-based roles.
Qualifications and requirements
To apply you will need to have attained, or expect to attain by September 2026:
- Bachelor's degree or higher in one of the following subject areas: Engineering and Technology (Electrical, Mechanical, Civil or Telecommunications), Physics, Maths or Computer Science.
- OR Level 4/5 qualification such as an HNC in engineering or closely related subject, plus 2 years of relevant industry experience.
Applicants must also hold a full UK driving licence by the start date of their programme as the ability to drive is an essential requirement of the role.
Starting salary £37,643 (pay award pending) increasing to circa £44,500 on successful completion of the Programme.
Closing date: 1st March 2026 • Expected start date: 12th October 2026.
Graduate and Technical Trainee employer: Northern Powergrid
Northern Powergrid is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where aspiring engineers can thrive. With a structured 27-month Graduate and Technical Trainee Programme, employees benefit from diverse placements, professional development, and the opportunity to earn a Level 4 Electrical Power Network Engineer Apprenticeship. Located in the heart of the North East, Yorkshire, and northern Lincolnshire, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, ensuring that our team is well-equipped to meet the energy needs of future generations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate and Technical Trainee
✨Get Involved in Energy Communities
Dive into local energy-related communities or forums. Joining groups like the Energy Institute or attending their events can put you on the radar for traineeships, plus you’ll meet industry pros who can offer insights and possibly connect you to opportunities.
✨Explore University Careers Fairs
Keep an eye on your university’s careers fairs, especially those focused on the energy and utilities sector. Companies often scout for trainees at these events, so be ready to chat and learn about various roles at businesses like Northern Powergrid.
✨Engage in Sustainable Projects
Show your passion for the energy sector by getting involved in sustainable projects or initiatives within your community. Whether it’s volunteering for renewable energy campaigns or participating in local energy audits, these experiences will enhance your CV and make you stand out.
✨Apply Directly Through Us!
Don't miss out on applying directly through our website for the Graduate and Technical Trainee position at Northern Powergrid! We often have internships that aren’t listed elsewhere, and the direct approach shows your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate and Technical Trainee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability:When writing your application for a trainee position in the energy-utilities sector, we want to see your genuine interest in renewable energy and sustainability. Talk about any relevant projects, courses, or initiatives you're involved in that showcase your dedication to making a positive impact in this crucial industry.
Showcase Relevant Skills and Knowledge:Make sure to emphasise skills that are particularly useful in energy-utilities, such as analytical skills, familiarity with energy policies, or any technical knowledge you've gained from your studies. If you've worked with data analysis tools or have a background in environmental sciences, be sure to include that in your CV and cover letter.
Express Your Learning Mindset:As a trainee, we’re not just looking for experience; we want to see your eagerness to learn and grow. In your cover letter, highlight your motivation to develop your skills and gain hands-on experience in the energy-utilities field. Share what you hope to learn at Northern Powergrid and how this traineeship fits into your career goals.
Tailor Your CV for Each Application:Each company may prioritise different skills or experiences, so don’t forget to tailor your CV to match the specific requirements of the traineeship at Northern Powergrid. Use keywords from the job description and ensure that your academic projects, internships, or volunteer experience related to energy or utilities stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Powergrid
✨Know Your Energy Basics
Before our interview with Northern Powergrid, brush up on the fundamentals of energy production and sustainability. Understand the types of energy sources, efficiency metrics, and key challenges in the sector. It shows your enthusiasm and helps us connect the dots during our chat!
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, it’s essential to highlight your eagerness to learn and grow in the energy-utilities field. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve picked up new skills or adapted in challenging situations, whether in academic settings or during internships.
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Familiarise yourself with some of the software tools commonly used in energy management, like energy modelling software or simulation tools. Having a basic understanding here can help us engage in some solid conversations about technology use in the industry.
✨Prepare to Discuss Sustainability Trends
Sustainability is a hot topic in the energy-utilities sector. Read up on current trends and innovations in renewable energy, smart grids, or regulatory changes. It’ll demonstrate that you're not just looking for any job but are genuinely interested in making a difference at Northern Powergrid.
