At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we’re at the heart of Great Britain’s energy system — keeping energy moving today while planning and operating the system we’ll need for tomorrow. Our work supports the transition to a reliable, affordable and clean energy future for everyone.
Commercial markets play a vital role in that transition. They help unlock investment, support the reliable operation of the electricity system, and enable new technologies and services to connect and grow. At NESO, our commercial teams are central to shaping and operating these markets in a way that delivers value for consumers and supports the journey to clean power.
Welcome to NESO
Hear from our people on what to expect when you join the team.
The markets we run are already worth around £3bn a year, and their importance is set to grow as Great Britain works towards Clean Power 2030. This is about more than market design or financial value — it is about creating the conditions for a secure, sustainable energy system that works for households, businesses and communities across the country.
Join us for a 12-month industrial placement as a Commercial Analyst and you’ll work on projects that matter — from designing the markets that keep the electricity system running to collaborating with stakeholders across government, industry, and communities.
What you’ll be doing
During your year with us, you’ll work alongside experts in our commercial teams, contributing to the way we operate, plan, and innovate.
You could be:
Advising government on how to design energy markets and policies to deliver Great Britain’s clean power and net zero targets, in collaboration with industry stakeholders
Working with national bodies (e.g. Government, Ofgem, Elexon) to update the rules for how energy markets operate
Designing, developing and operating markets to secure the services needed for electricity system operation, working collaboratively with teams from the control room as well as our technology teams
Supporting the growth of system flexibility through effective market signals
Supporting NESO’s role in delivering the auctions for the governments primary investment support mechanisms – the Contracts for Difference and Capacity Market schemes
Working with industry stakeholders and customers to understand their emerging technologies and business models, to ensure both our markets and wider market arrangements are fit for the future
Ultimately driving value for GB consumers through effective market design and operation
What we're looking for
You’re customer-focused, driven, ambitious, and passionate about tackling climate change.
You enjoy problem-solving, working with others, and seeing your ideas make a difference.
You’ll need to be:
On track to achieve a minimum 2:2 in any STEM degree discipline
Be starting your penultimate year in September 2026
What you’ll get:
Salary of £26,000
26 days' holiday plus UK public holidays
Birthday day off – enjoy your birthday as a paid day off!
A dedicated buddy to support you throughout your placement
Work that directly supports Britain’s net zero targets
Exposure to industry experts, mentoring, and networking opportunities
The chance to be considered for our Graduate Programme Opportunities
Work that aligns with your values – and drives impact for everyone
Why NESO?
We’re building a future where everyone has access to reliable, clean, and affordable energy. At NESO, you’ll join a team that’s:
Curious and visionary
Purpose-driven and inclusive
Technically brilliant and always improving
Collaborative, diverse and human
Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments you may need.
Closing date: ongoing – we recommend applying early!
As soon as all our spaces are filled, we will close the online application form.
Assessment centres: November 2026 onwards.
We've signed the Gradcracker feedback pledge.
(This means that we will supply feedback if requested after an interview.)
