About Us
We’re National Grid Electricity Distribution (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.
Job Introduction
Exciting opportunities are available for reliable and safety-focused individuals to join National Grid Electricity Distribution as Craftsperson (Fitters). We are currently recruiting for Fitters within the South West Maintenance team based in Bodmin or Pool, and within the Capital Delivery team based in Plymouth. These roles offer the opportunity to work on essential electricity network infrastructure, helping to maintain a safe, reliable, and resilient network for our customers and communities.
Reporting to the Team Leader / Operations Manager you will be working as part of a team to install, maintain and repair power system components at substations including switchgear, transformers, protection systems and associated equipment operating at voltages up to 132kV.
We’re looking for a strong team player who can follow instructions accurately, work safely at all times and confidently support site operations.
The role involves practical, hands‑on work including substation inspections, working at height, manual handling, and working with tools and oil. You may occasionally work alone and may also be required to supervise contractors on site, ensuring all activities are completed safely and to required standards.
Flexibility is essential, as the role may involve overtime and weekend working and travel to other sites within the South West licence area to meet operational requirements.
You must hold GCSE English and Maths (A*–C / 4–9) or Functional Skills Level 2, and depending on experience, you may start on a lower salary until training is complete.
Evidence of your qualifications will be required prior to appointment.
Main Responsibilities
- Installation of plant and protection systems on the 132kV, 33kV & 11kV distribution network. Including mechanical / electrical fitting and small wiring - including relay panel and telecontrol works.
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Work to set procedures and ensure health & safety requirements are fully met.
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Complete all allocated tasks in a safe and timely manner.
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Willingness to learn and develop knowledge.
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Undertake operational duties on the distribution network, including the receipt of safety documentation relating to substation work activities up to 132kV.
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You may be required to undertake the ‘Standby Duties’ on a rota as part of this appointment.
The Ideal Candidate
We’re looking for someone with practical experience of working on High Voltage substation sites, ideally with electrical, mechanical fitting or wiring skills.
If you don’t already hold the Level 2 City & Guilds 2339 qualification, we’ll support you through this and the required TAR programme – which includes daily diary page completion and a number of tasks and reports.
You’ll need to work confidently both independently and within a small team, make effective decisions under pressure, and maintain a flexible approach to help meet team objectives.
A valid UK driving licence and mobility across the area are essential, as standby duties may be required.Full training will be provided to achieve switching authorisation at 132kV and 33kV, and commitment to completing this is vital.
Please also be aware that for roles involving work at height or the use of fall‑arrest equipment, a maximum equipment safety load of 135kg applies.
Depending on experience, you may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete. #LI-SC1
About The Company
Joining the UK’s leading electricity distribution business means plenty of career opportunities and well-deserved recognition. We reward hard work and encourage ambition. So, as well as a competitive salary, you will also benefit from:
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26 days paid leave plus 8 bank holidays, up to 28 days with continuous service
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Competitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%)
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Annual Share Save plan
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Life assurance x 4 basic salary
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Contributory private healthcare scheme for you and your family
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Support via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services
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Free on-site parking at all our main sites
Things you need to know
As an equal opportunities employer who is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, we celebrate individual difference and are actively bringing in more employees from diverse backgrounds to build on our inclusive culture. If you require additional support to complete your online application, please email [email protected].
Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, 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. However, 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. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
Recruitment correspondence is usually sent by email, please check your email account including spam/junk folders regularly after the closing date.
National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers. This role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service, (DBS) check, depending on the role different levels of screening and vetting are required. Some roles require a triannual check.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should sufficient numbers of suitable applications be received, so it would be best to apply as soon as you can.
