2026 Primary Network Design Engineer Graduate, Electricity Distribution Tipton

Overview

National Grid is at the heart of the UK energy network keeping people connected and society moving. We develop, own and maintain the physical infrastructure, such as pylons and cables, needed to move the electricity generated from windfarms and power sources around the country. We are leading the transformation towards a greener future, dreaming bigger to bring a more affordable energy future to everyone. Our people are our true superpower, driving and sustaining our growth and bringing diverse perspectives to our mission. Join us and power the future of energy.

What You’ll Do

As a Graduate Network Design Engineer, you’ll gain hands-on experience and training across a variety of design disciplines. You’ll help transform conceptual network plans into buildable solutions and contribute to the design of electrical, protection/control, mechanical and civil elements for substations up to 132,000 volts. Your work will support the construction, extension and modification of our network infrastructure to maintain reliable electricity supply and enable the transition to a low-carbon future.

• Substation Design – Assist in the physical design of indoor and open-terminal substations, including layout preparation and detailed mechanical drawings under the guidance of senior engineers.
• AutoCAD Drafting – Produce detailed engineering drawings using AutoCAD to support construction and commissioning activities.
• Safety by Design – Consider safety implications of design decisions across the lifecycle of substation assets—from construction to operation, maintenance and decommissioning.
• Protection & Control – Support the design of protection and control schemes, including relay settings and configuration.
• Site Engagement – Conduct site visits, inspections and surveys to inform and validate design work. Travel support and accommodation are provided where necessary.

Graduate Programme

Join an 18-month graduate programme with a tailored development pathway to build leadership, business and technical skills. You’ll attend in-person and virtual development sessions, receive coaching and mentorship, and access IET membership support to help you progress toward chartership if relevant. You’ll complete three 6-month placements across the UK as part of this programme, returning to your initial placement area after completion to begin your career with National Grid.

What You’ll Need to Apply

• You’ll need a minimum 2:2 degree in Electrical Engineering or Power Engineering or be working towards it. Graduation timing does not matter; eagerness to apply knowledge in a real-world setting matters more.
• You’ll need a full valid UK driving licence 3 months prior to start date due to travel to site locations.
• You’ll need adaptability to travel within role and during rotations to sites, substations, depots and training centres.

Location

Role requires living within a 30-minute drive of the postcode DY4 0HH and you may be asked to evidence this in your application.

What You’ll Get in Return

Graduate starting salary: £36,640.

Benefits

• £2,000 bonus after joining the programme
• 26 days holiday
• £2,400 payment on successful completion of the programme
• Accommodation allowance up to £200 per month while moving between placements, plus additional annual leave for relocation and assistance with moving personal belongings
• Pension and share-option schemes, adaptable benefits, mentorship and volunteering opportunities

Additional Information

We recruit on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close vacancies based on application volume. Some information may be subject to change. Successful candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK from the start date. National Grid may consider sponsorship only in exceptional circumstances where a clear need for specialist skills exists. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion.