About us

National Energy System Operator (NESO) has a key role to play in tackling climate change by transitioning GB's electricity system to net zero. We already operate the fastest decarbonising electricity system in the world, with an ambition for zero carbon power operation by 2030 when there is sufficient renewable generation. We are also providing advice to the Government on achieving a decarbonised power system by 2030.

NESO recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain's energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

About the role

Have you ever wondered how we keep the electricity flowing and the lights on for all electricity consumers in Great Britain? Are you a technical 'problem solver' looking to build a career in engineering? Do you want to kick start your career or change career through a mix of paid employment and academic study?

If so, joining our two year Higher Apprentice Programme gives you the opportunity to develop your skills as a Power Systems Engineer both through on the job learning with our experienced experts, and through off the job learning studying for an HTQ in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic). If you are successful, we will progress you to a Level 5 HND on completion of the Level 4. It is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the core team that is working to operate a carbon free electricity system by 2035.

Our Apprenticeship Programme

As a Trainee Power System Engineer, you will join the Strategic Energy Planning team and Engineering Solutions team in Warwick, contributing to developing the future energy system and connecting our customers into our system. Depending on the requirements of the team you are working alongside, opportunities may include creating, developing and informing our understanding of future challenges, looking at potential solutions in technical, economic and market fronts.

Key tasks:
• analyze future system operational issue under zero carbon operation
• developing a whole energy system development plan, including both onshore and offshore network
• maintain and develop network analysis models and tools
• assess customer connection application and provide connection solution and compliance guidance

Upon successful completion of the programme, you will join relevant team working with external stakeholders such as Transmission Owner, Distribution Network Operators, Generators, and wider industry players.

What you'll get

As a first step to your career in the energy industry, our Higher Apprentices Programme is like no other! The NESO is committed to the personal development of our staff. You will get the benefit of 'earn while you learn', working alongside experts - gaining skills and insights into how we work at the NESO and understand what a career with us can offer. Joining us, you will be supported as you develop a wide range of competencies (knowledge, skills, behaviours) through a blend of formal study at college combined with and on the-job experience. You will work closely with your line manager to establish and navigate through a Personal Development Plan that is tailored to your needs. Importantly you will have the support of a cohort of existing and ex trainees, building friendships and networks for life.

We are proud to offer:
• a starting salary of £29,819 based out of our Warwick office
• 26 days annual leave plus 8 days bank holiday
• Pension and flexible benefits
• Hybrid working dependent upon business requirement

Upon successful completion of the programme, you will
• be appointed into a permanent power system engineer role
• be awarded a Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Electrical Power Network Engineering
• be awarded a Level 4 HTQ in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic)

For those who wish to continue their studies, we have educational support schemes in which you would join Year 2 of a BSc in Engineering.

What you'll need

Are you at sixth form looking for an alternative route to university into an engineering career, or at college looking to progress to the next level in the engineering apprenticeship framework, or employee looking to change career direction into engineering? Whatever your path, you will be a technical 'problem solver' looking to build a career in power system engineering.

You will need to have typically 2 A levels at grade A-C in maths and a science, including English GCSE grade A/B, or an equivalent level 3 engineering qualification e.g. National Certificate in Engineering or relevant experience.

You will be a UK national or have lived in the UK for 5 years and have the right to live and work in the UK.

More Information

We recruit on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close our vacancies once we have enough applications/based on volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure you obtain the place you want in the application process.
You can only apply for one graduate opportunity during this recruitment cycle. We kindly ask that you review all our graduate opportunities and apply for the one that aligns closest with your aspirations and interests.