Overhead Lines Engineer Apprentice Asset Operations

2026 Overhead Lines Engineer Higher Apprentice (Preston), Asset Operations

Apply for the 2026 Overhead Lines Engineer Higher Apprentice (Preston), Asset Operations role at National Grid
.

Ensuring the future of electricity transmission. We think of engineering as a legacy, passing on a brighter energy future. A three‑year Higher Apprenticeship Overhead Line programme will train you to become an engineer in one of our Overhead Line teams.

You’ll learn everything about Overhead Lines – conductors, fittings and insulator systems, safety, maintenance methods, technical support, 3rd‑party requests and fault fixing.

At the end you’ll have a HTQ in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (HNC) and a job waiting for you. The work will impact the transmission of electricity in England and Wales for the next 40–50 years.

• Develop safe systems of work for staff according to safe practices, procedures and risk assessments.
• Support day‑to‑day management of the operational overhead line team’s resources and assets.
• Respond to overhead line faults and defects as they occur.
• Develop specialist technical skills to deliver a variety of OHL projects safely, on time and to budget.
• Progress skills towards roles of Project Leader, Temporary Works Coordinator and Principle Contractors Representative.
• Shadow experienced OHL engineers across the full range of operational work to gain new skills in the field.
• Receive Health and Safety training leading to role‑specific authorisations.
• Work away from home in a variety of zones and geographic areas to develop your skills.

You must live within 45 minutes of PR1 0NS
to be considered for this role.

You are driven, proactive, and have an appetite for continuous improvement. You can build on existing knowledge and have enthusiasm to run with initiatives. You communicate clearly with a variety of people and are a flexible multitasker who pays great attention to detail. Academic performance is less important than practical engineering mindset.

• Two A-Levels (including Maths or Physics graded C or above) or a BTEC with a Maths or engineering module, or working towards them.
• Five GCSEs including Maths and English Language graded 4 (C) or equivalent.
• A valid driving licence that allows driving in the UK three months before start date.
• Ability to live away from home, primarily at our Eakring Academy in Nottinghamshire, and spend some time at college studying.

This is a physically active role that may include occasional work at height, manual handling and outdoor work in varied conditions. Applicants should be confident in meeting these demands safely.

Starting salary of £31,310.

• Progress towards a Level 4 qualification in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (HNC).
• 26 days annual leave plus statutory holidays.
• Potential £250 depending on performance.
• Double‑matched pension contribution up to 18% of salary.
• Option to buy discounted National Grid shares.
• Financial support for study relevant to your role.
• Professional membership subscription covered.
• Access to discount scheme on retail outlets and holiday.

National Grid is at the heart of the UK energy future, ensuring electricity flows from generation to distribution. With 30,000 colleagues, we connect nearly the whole of the UK’s energy supply.

You can only apply for one Apprenticeship during this recruitment cycle. The programme is open to all eligible candidates with a right to work in the UK. Assessment centres will be held between January and April 2026. We recruit on a rolling basis and may close vacancies once we have enough applications.