Graduate Substation Engineer South East Asset Operations

About us

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. Every time a phone is plugged in, or a switch is turned on, we've played a part, connecting you to the electricity you need - and we're leading the transformation towards a greener future, dreaming bigger to bring a more affordable energy future to everyone.

But it's our people that provide our true superpower. They drive and sustain our growth, their unique differences only making us stronger. But it's no small feat and we need the best to join us in our mission. So, join us and power the future of energy.

As the owners of England and Wales' electricity transmission network, we're at the forefront of the UK's energy transition. We're looking for bright, ambitious engineering graduates to help us build a greener, more resilient energy future.

We're offering a unique, immersive two-year programme that gives you hands‑on experience in substation engineering - all while being paid. You'll work on real‑world projects that directly impact how electricity is delivered across the country, now and for the next 40 to 50 years.

From day one, you'll be part of a team delivering essential work - from maintaining and refurbishing high‑voltage assets to connecting new customers and integrating renewable energy sources like wind and solar into the grid. You'll rotate through a variety of projects and teams, gaining exposure to everything from design and construction to commissioning and fault response.

By the end of the programme, you'll step into a full‑time role as a Substation Engineer, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to lead teams and make critical decisions.

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• 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

Throughout the programme, you'll:

• 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

This isn't just a job - it's a chance to shape the future of energy in the UK. The decisions you make and the work you deliver will help ensure the safe, reliable transmission of electricity for generations to come.

As you'll be joining our 18‑month graduate programme, you'll have a tailored development pathway to support you as you develop a wide range of leadership, business, and technical skills. You'll attend in‑person and virtual development sessions throughout your programme to equip you with the essential skills required, as you begin your career at National Grid. We're committed to the personal development of our colleagues so as well as the support from your line manager as you navigate your new role, you'll also have access to 121 coaching and a mentor, from a previous cohort to help…