At National Grid Electricity Distribution, we play a vital role in connecting customers to a safe, reliable and future-ready electricity network. We're looking for an experienced 11kV Planner to join our Northampton team, where you'll take ownership of complex network design activities, provide technical leadership to colleagues, and help deliver innovative solutions for customers ranging from domestic developers through to major commercial and industrial connections.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong 11kV network knowledge who enjoys solving technical challenges, working closely with customers and stakeholders, and supporting the development of others. You'll be involved in the design and analysis of new connections, reinforcement schemes, network upgrades and generation connections, helping to shape the future of the distribution network.

As one of the most senior technical specialists within the depot, you'll play a key role in supporting planners, collaborating with operational teams and engaging directly with customers on significant projects.

You will be required to hold a minimum Level 3 City & Guilds 2339 (or equivalent qualification deemed to be at the same level) in order to apply and evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

If not already attained the successful candidate will be required to undertake HNC Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

As part of our hybrid working approach this role offers a mix of office and home working. Hybrid working can only be considered once your initial training is complete and subject to business need.

*Please note the successful candidate may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete.

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.

• Design and assess complex 11kV network connection schemes, including new demand connections, embedded generation and reinforcement projects
• Carry out network analysis, load flow studies and fault level assessments to develop safe, efficient and cost-effective solutions
• Produce feasibility studies, budget estimates and firm quotations for customer connection projects
• Provide technical support, guidance and mentoring to planners across the team, acting as a subject matter expert for 11kV network design
• Build strong relationships with customers, developers, consultants and key stakeholders, representing the business at meetings and site visits
• Manage customer enquiries and provide technical advice throughout the connection process
• Design reinforcement, replacement and automation schemes to ensure the network remains resilient and capable of supporting future growth
• Coordinate with Primary Network Design Engineers and Operational teams on projects involving higher voltage networks and complex system interactions
• Support the preparation of technical reports, connection offers, capital sanctions and project documentation
• Undertake site visits to assess network requirements and identify practical design solutions
• Assist with wayleaves, easements and land rights requirements where necessary
• Ensure designs comply with company standards, industry regulations and safety requirements

Essential

Level 3 City & Guilds 2339 (or equivalent electrical qualification).

Strong working knowledge of electrical distribution networks, particularly 11kV network design and planning.

Experience designing new connections, network reinforcement or network alteration schemes within a DNO, ICP or similar electricity industry environment.

Ability to interpret technical information and apply engineering principles to develop practical network solutions.

Excellent communication skills with the confidence to engage with customers, developers, consultants and internal stakeholders.

Strong stakeholder management and customer service skills.

Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and make sound technical decisions.

Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

Previous Senior Authorised Person (SAP) experience.

Experience within a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) or Independent Connection Provider (ICP).

HNC in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, or willingness to work towards obtaining it.

Experience using network modelling and design systems such as CROWN, DES/EMU, ConnectLV, SINCAL or similar.

Understanding of OFGEM regulation and performance incentives.

Experience mentoring or supporting colleagues in a technical environment.

What Success Looks Like

We're looking for someone who combines strong technical expertise with excellent relationship-building skills. You'll be comfortable leading technical discussions, supporting colleagues, engaging with customers on complex projects and finding practical solutions to challenging network problems. Whether you're currently working within a DNO, an ICP, or in a similar electrical planning role, you'll bring the confidence and knowledge to make a positive impact from day one.

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:

• 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

Things you need to know

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.

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.

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 nged.recruitment@nationalgrid.co.uk

Recruitment correspondence is usually sent by email, please check your email account including spam/junk folders regularly after the closing date.

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.