Electricity Distribution - Network Planner

Company Overview

(NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver heat, light and power for homes and businesses. National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. We are building an inclusive workplace, a place to actively celebrate the cultures, personalities and preferences of our colleagues – who in turn help to build the success of our business and reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast‑moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources that are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.

We are currently recruiting for a Grade 6 Network Planner to join us at our Derby depot. Planners design our network and work with our Engineers to construct, reinforce, alter and replace our equipment. The pace is fast, and if you join us, our customers will trust you to provide excellent service and minimise any impact.

You’ll be hands‑on, responsible for project design, costing and quoting, and the replacement, diversion and reinforcement of existing electricity network assets. Working primarily on the high‑voltage network, you’ll take care of the costs and plan for substation and cable replacements.

• Prepare capital projects and off‑site coordination
• Design schemes that align with our Engineering Directives
• Prepare plans, schematics, wayleaves, notices, material schedules, terms, quotations and agreements
• Liaise with a Grade 7 Network Planner to meet all overall network requirements
• Determine the what, how and cost for individual projects, and approve them
• Resolve customer complaints
• Set up scheme files and close down on completion
• Monitor costs on individual capital sanctions, identify and comment on variances, and take corrective action
• Visit sites and work from developer plans

You may already have experience as a Grade 5 Network Planner, so you’ll understand our procedures and standards and already understand our customers and their needs. If you haven’t worked with us before, then you’ll have an electrical background with a qualification to match – perhaps you’ve worked in internal electrical planning. Either way, strong communication skills are key, so you can coordinate jobs and clearly explain issues.

As you’ll be in control of your diary, we’ll need you to be resilient, organised and able to prioritise your workload. Team players thrive in this role, and you’ll be used to taking a proactive and more consultative approach. Experience using iPads, computers and our additional software is a must. A full UK driving licence is required to enable you to carry out site visits.

You may not possess all the skills required to carry out the role at present but you will have the confidence and ability to reach the necessary standards with appropriate training.

To be considered, you’ll need English and Maths GCSE Grade C/Level 4 minimum, or Functional Skills Level 2 or above. You’ll hold a Level 2 City & Guilds 2339, or an equivalent qualification of the same level. We’ll need to see evidence of your qualifications, and if not already attained you’ll need to undertake Level 3 City & Guilds 2339. A satisfactory Barring Service, (DBS) check will be required.

Depending on the role, different levels of screening and vetting may be required. Some roles require a triannual check. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points‑based immigration system. In exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship.

Please note you may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete.

• 26 days paid leave plus 8 bank holidays, up to 28 days with continuous service
• Competitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%)
• Annual Share Save plan
• Contributory private healthcare scheme for you and your family
• Support via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services
• Free on‑site parking at all our main sites

All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin. National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers.