Graduate Substation Engineer North West Asset Operations

2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations

Join to apply for the 2026 Graduate Substation Engineer North West (Chester), Asset Operations role at National Grid
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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 electricity generated from wind farms and power sources around the country, leading the transformation toward a greener future.

We are looking for bright, ambitious engineering graduates to help us build a greener, more resilient energy future. You will be part of a team delivering essential work – from maintaining and refurbishing high‑voltage assets to connecting new customers and integrating renewable energy sources. The programme is a unique, immersive two‑year programme that gives you hands‑on experience in substation engineering while being paid.

• Testing equipment and systems, including safety, protection, and control mechanisms
• Supporting substation maintenance, refurbishment, and fault diagnosis
• Assisting your Operations Manager and wider team in delivering key projects
• Developing into the role of Project Leader (PL), with a focus on commercial delivery and safety
• Leading teams of fitters and contractors, ensuring safe systems of work, risk assessments, method statements, and toolbox talks are in place
• Monitoring and progressing contracts for unlicensed customers and contractor‑delivered work
• Taking on site delivery responsibilities, including acting as Temporary Works Co‑ordinator and Principal Contractor under CDM regulations
• Participating in a standby rota for emergency callouts – with additional pay for your availability and expertise
• Travel regularly to substations, depots and the training centre in Eakring, Nottingham

• Build deep technical knowledge of substation systems and high‑voltage equipment
• Learn how to manage safety‑critical work and uphold National Grid’s Safety Rules
• Gain leadership experience and work towards becoming a Senior Authorised Person (SAP)
• Develop the skills to lead on‑site teams, manage contractors, and deliver complex engineering projects
• Receive structured training at our dedicated centre in Eakring, Nottingham, alongside on‑the‑job learning across your regional base
• Contribute to strategic projects and continuous improvement initiatives across the business

• Minimum 2:2 in a degree based on electrical principals, such as Mechanical/Electrical/Power Systems Engineering or a closely related discipline – you can be working towards or completed your qualification
• Full valid UK driving licence, or with theory test completed and practical test booked at the time of your assessment centre
• Flexibility to travel within the role and throughout your graduate development programme rotations
• Location – you must live within a 30‑minute drive of CH1 6HE
  and provide evidence of this in your application

We are proud to offer a graduate starting salary of £36,640.

• £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 as you move around the business, and additional annual leave for when you move between placements plus assistance with moving personal belongings
• Other benefits include pension and share‑option schemes, Flexible Benefits, close mentorship and regular feedback & volunteering opportunities.

Assessment centres will be held between November and April 2026.