About us

National Energy System Operator (NESO) has a key role to play in tackling climate change by transitioning GB’s electricity system to net zero. We already operate the fastest decarbonising electricity system in the world, with an ambition for zero carbon power operation by 2030 when there is sufficient renewable generation. We are also providing advice to the Government on achieving a decarbonised power system by 2030.

NESO recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

About the role

Are you interested in gaining the skills to negotiate and build effective relationships with some of the best people in the energy industry? Joining our 18-month Graduate Development Programme gives you the opportunity to develop your skills as a Commercial Graduate within the National Energy System Operator (NESO); you will do vital work at the heart of Great Britain's energy industry, ensuring our high voltage electricity system and the commercial infrastructure that underpins it meets the fast-growing needs of consumers.   

You will work and solve a wide range of complex problems with some of the best people across the energy industry and within the NESO to ultimately deliver our ambitions of operating a zero-carbon network as well as increased levels of competition in the markets we operate. You will create innovative ways to do business and manage strategic relationships, helping us become a trusted partner of the whole energy industry.   

The role is based in Wokingham, hybrid working options available and dependent upon business requirements. 

Our Graduate Programme

Depending on which of the exciting and important teams you are a key part of you may, amongst other things, be:   

• Predict the nation's energy needs for the coming decades so we can understand how the electricity networks and policies might have to change.    
• Lead analytical work that defines the long-term changes in the electricity transmission network, to deliver reliable and affordable power to consumers while meeting our carbon free operation ambition.    
• Collaborate closely with industry stakeholders and colleagues from across our business to ensure the electricity system of the future meets the industry’s needs and expectations and delivers strategic industry-wide objectives such as the UK’s 2050 net zero targets.  
• Negotiate connections and service contracts with our customers.    
• Work with colleagues from the energy industry, and national bodies to develop and implement amendments to industry codes that set out how the energy markets operate.    
• Develop our charging rules and collect our revenues.    
• Design, implement and operate markets to procure services needed for electricity system operation  
• Investigate the root causes of performance issues, identify and analyse opportunities to improve processes, then recommend and implement sustainable developments.    

What you'll need to apply

You will  have a minimum 2.2 degree in any STEM degree discipline  

Ideally, you will also have a valid full UK Driving Licence.  

What you'll get in return

We are proud to offer a starting salary of £34,895.59

As a first step to your career in the energy industry, our Graduate Programmes are like no other! You will gain an insight into how we work at the NESO, understand what a career with us can offer, and receive some great rewards and benefits:

• £2,000 bonus, once joined and started on programme
• 26 days' holiday
• £2,400 payment on successful completion of the programme
• Up to £200 per month accommodation allowance as you move around the business, and additional annual leave for when you move between placements plus assistance with moving personal belongings
• Other benefits include pension, Flexible Benefits, close mentorship and regular feedback, accreditation by the IMechE, IGEM and IET, and volunteering opportunities.

The NESO is committed to the personal development of our staff. Joining us, you will be supported as you develop a wide range of leadership, business, and technical skills through structured training and on the job experience. You will work closely with your line manager to establish and navigate through a Personal Development Plan that is tailored to your needs.

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