2026 Graduate Electrical Engineer, Electricity Distribution - Bristol

Overview

National Grid is at the heart of the UK energy network, developing, owning and maintaining the infrastructure that moves electricity from generation to customers. This 18‑month graduate programme is based with National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) in the Midlands, South West England and South Wales, delivering asset replacement programmes, network reinforcement and new connections from 11kV to 132kV. You’ll be based at a project team office in the South Wales region, with substantial time on-site across the region. This is a technical and dynamic role that requires strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of colleagues and contractors to deliver projects safely and to a high standard, supporting over eight million customers and the transition to a greener, fairer, more affordable energy future.

What You’ll Do

• Gain exposure to a wide range of engineering and project disciplines during your graduate development.
• Project Management Fundamentals – learn how to plan, execute and deliver complex infrastructure projects.
• Safety and CDM Regulations – understand safe working principles and compliance with Construction (Design and Management) regulations.
• Project Finances – involvement in budgeting, cost control and financial reporting.
• Network Risk Management – assess and mitigate risks associated with network operations and upgrades.
• Procurement and Contractor Management – support the selection and oversight of contractors and suppliers.
• Network Operations – work towards becoming a Senior Authorised Person (SAP), gaining skills to operate and manage high‑voltage systems.
• Commissioning Activities – assist in testing and commissioning of electrical plant and protection systems.

Our Graduate Programme

You’ll join an 18‑month tailored development pathway to build leadership, business and technical skills. You’ll attend in‑person and virtual development sessions, receive line manager support, and have access to 121 coaching and a mentor from a previous cohort to help you transition from campus to corporate life. The programme includes core development electives (impact, feedback and presentation skills) and an Engineering pathway with learning modules such as working safely. If relevant, you may access Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) membership and a National Grid IET mentor to support chartership. The programme includes three 6‑month placements across the UK to deepen your understanding of your specialism and broaden your knowledge of the business. At the end of the 18 months you’ll return to your initial placement area to start your career.

What you\’ll need to apply

• You’ll need to achieve, or be working towards, a minimum 2:2 degree in Electrical Engineering.
• You must currently hold or be eligible for a full valid UK driving licence.
• You’ll need adaptability to travel within the role and during rotations to sites, substations, depots and training centres.

Location

For operational requirements, the candidate should live within a 30‑minute drive of postcode BS2 0TB. You will be asked to evidence this in your application.

What You\’ll Get In Return

Graduate starting salary: £36,640.

Benefits

• £2,000 bonus once joined and started on programme
• 26 days holiday
• £2,400 payment on successful completion of the programme
• Up to £200 per month accommodation allowance during placements, plus assistance with moving personal belongings and additional annual leave for transitions between placements
• Pension and share‑option schemes, adaptable benefits, close mentorship and regular feedback and volunteering opportunities

Additional Information

You can apply for one graduate opportunity in this recruitment cycle. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and vacancies may close early depending on volume. Assessment centres will be held between November and April 2026. Successful candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK from the start date. Sponsorship under the UK points‑based immigration system is limited; National Grid may consider sponsorship only in exceptional circumstances where a clear need for specialist skills exists. National Grid values diversity, equity and inclusion and invites applicants from diverse experiences and backgrounds.