Distribution Craft Trainee in Melksham

Build a Long‑Term Skilled Career Supporting the Energy Transition – Substation Fitter / Overhead Linesperson / Cable Jointer

Base Location: Poole, Petersfield, New Forest, Slough, Theale, Salisbury, Oxford, Melksham, Swindon, Andover.

Salary: Under 18s will be on £17,666, 18-20 on £21,405 and 21+ on £25,074. Salary upon finishing the programme is circa £36,686 + range of other benefits.

Working Pattern: Permanent | 2‑year Trainee Programme

Start Date: September 2026

Our two‑year Craft Trainee Programme combines structured training with real work experience on the electricity network. You’ll work outdoors, attend college to gain a qualification, learn from expert craft teams and progress towards becoming an authorised Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson – building a long term career in a vital and growing industry.

• Substation Fitter – work on electrical infrastructure across our network, maintaining, installing and upgrading equipment that keeps power on for customers.
• Cable Jointer – specialise in underground cables, repairing faults, connecting new customers and improving the resilience of the network.
• Overhead Linesperson – work at height on the overhead electricity network, building and maintaining power lines and restoring supplies during faults.

• A structured two‑year programme combining paid, on‑the‑job training with hands on experience.
• You will attend college and work towards achieving a Technical certificate in Electrical Power Engineering.
• Practical outdoor work, supporting our teams to maintain, repair and upgrade the electricity network in local communities.
• Training at our dedicated training centres, followed by on‑the‑job learning and support from experienced craft colleagues giving you the knowledge and skills to work safely and confidently.
• All tools, PPE and equipment provided, including required business travel and accommodation.
• A permanent skilled craft role on completion, with a starting salary of around £36,686 plus overtime and clear opportunities to progress your career.

• Someone who enjoys hands‑on, practical work and is comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
• A quick learner with a positive attitude, ready to build new technical skills with support from our experienced teams.
• Commitment and resilience to complete a two‑year programme, including periods of training away from home.
• A strong focus on safety and following procedures in a safety critical environment.
• Comfortable working at height for the Overhead Linesperson and Substation Fitter pathway and willing to get involved in physical, outdoor tasks.
• Working towards a driving licence, with a full UK licence expected by the end of the programme.
• In England, for this programme you must be 18+ when you start in the programme in September.

Over the two‑year programme, you'll complete a structured, paid training programme that combines hands on field experience with learning at our internal training schools. You’ll gain industry recognised qualifications, develop specialist technical skills and build the confidence to work safely and effectively across our network. Some training will be delivered in block release, meaning you may need to stay away from home for several weeks at a time. We’ll fully support your travel and accommodation, ensuring you can focus on developing your skills and progressing through the programme. By the end of your trainee programme, you’ll be ready for a rewarding, skilled role as a qualified Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson, with a clear pathway for future career progression.

• Fully funded training for you to become a qualified Craft person.
• All tools and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required for the role.
• A skills‑based pay matrix so your salary increases as you develop your skills (once qualified).
• Career stability within a sustainable industry with on‑going progression opportunities.
• On joining you will also have access to a range of other benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing.

SSE’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.

• Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships.
• Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service.
• Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme.
• As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

If you’re motivated, hands‑on and ready to start a meaningful career that powers communities, we’d love to hear from you. This is your chance to gain specialist skills and build a future in an essential industry. Take the first step – apply now and begin your journey as a Distribution Trainee Craftsperson. We will be back in touch after the vacancy closing date to let you know next steps.

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. If you would like to discuss any working differently requirements or adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact apprenticesandtrainees@sse.com by email or you are very welcome to request a call if you would prefer to discuss on the phone. Before commencing employment with SSE, you’ll be required to fully complete our pre‑employment screening process consisting of a basic criminal records and credit check. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Please note, SSE welcomes applicants from all nationalities to apply for the Apprenticeship/Trainees roles, however, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship as the salary does not meet the UKVI minimum salary threshold for this role.