Distribution Craft Trainee
SKILLS
FULL DESCRIPTION
Distribution Craft Trainee
[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is hiring a Distribution Craft Trainee for a 2-year paid programme based in Poole, New Forest, Slough, Theale, or Salisbury. The role offers training towards becoming a qualified Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer, or Overhead Linesperson, working outdoors on the electricity network. The programme includes college study, practical on-the-job training, and a permanent role upon completion with a starting salary of circa £36,686.
Key Details
- Base Location: Poole, New Forest, Slough, Theale, Salisbury
- Salary: circa £17,666 (training); circa £36,686 (post-programme)
- Working Pattern: Permanent | 2-year Trainee Programme
- Start Date: September 2026
- Closing Date: May 18 2026
Choose Your Path
As you progress, you’ll specialise in one of these key craft roles:
- Substation Fitter – work on electrical infrastructure across our network, maintaining, installing and upgrading equipment.
- Cable Jointer – specialise in underground cables, repairing faults, connecting new customers and improving resilience.
- Overhead Linesperson – work at height on the overhead electricity network, building and maintaining power lines.
What the Programme Offers
- A structured two year programme combining paid on-the-job training with hands on experience, including college attendance for a Technical certificate in Electrical Power Engineering.
- Practical outdoor work supporting teams to maintain, repair and upgrade the electricity network.
- Training at dedicated training centres and on-the-job learning from experienced craft colleagues.
- All tools, PPE and equipment provided, including required business travel and accommodation.
- A permanent skilled craft role on completion with a starting salary of around £36,686 plus overtime and career progression opportunities.
What We’re Looking For
- Someone who enjoys hands-on, practical work and is comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
- A quick learner with a positive attitude, ready to build new technical skills.
- Commitment and resilience to complete a two year programme, including periods of training away from home.
- A strong focus on safety and following procedures in a safety critical environment.
- Comfortable working at height (for Overhead Linesperson and Substation Fitter pathways) and willing to engage in physical, outdoor tasks.
- Working towards a driving licence, with a full UK licence expected by the end of the programme; must be 18+ to start in September.
What We Provide
- Fully funded training to become a qualified Craft person.
- All tools and PPE required for the role.
- A skills-based pay matrix so your salary increases as you develop skills (once qualified).
- Career stability within a sustainable industry with ongoing progression opportunities.
- Access to a range of benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing.
About [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]
[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], part of the wider [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in flexible networks for a low carbon future.
Flexible Benefits
Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. Generous family entitlements including maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
How to Apply
If you’re motivated, hands-on and ready to start a meaningful career that powers communities, we’d love to hear from you. All applications should be made online via the [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] careers portal. We will be back in touch after the vacancy closing date to let you know next steps. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] will make any reasonable adjustments you need. If you would like to discuss working differently or adjustments, please contact [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] by email or request a call. Before commencing employment, you’ll be required to complete pre-employment screening including a basic criminal records and credit check. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Please note, [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role as the salary does not meet the UKVI minimum threshold.