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.
At NESO, we don’t just think about the future — we design it. Join our 12-month Industrial Placement Programme as a Power System Engineer, and you’ll play a real role in helping us build a greener, more resilient energy system.
Welcome to NESO
Hear from our people on what to expect when you join the team.
Whether you’re analysing how we balance supply and demand or helping to shape long-term policies, you’ll be part of a team that’s central to Great Britain’s energy transition.
What you’ll be doing
Depending on the team you join, you could be:
Running power system analysis to identify future challenges and solutions
Supporting the development of new products and services to keep the grid stable as we decarbonise
Helping us shape national policies, codes and strategies that underpin the electricity system
Collaborating with engineers and stakeholders across Great Britain to help integrate new generation and demand
Contributing to high-profile publications that influence decision-makers across the energy sector
Building the knowledge and technical skills to shape your future career
This isn’t a placement where you’ll just watch from the sidelines — you’ll be making a real impact on a national scale
What we're looking for
We’re looking for students who are:
In your penultimate year of a degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or Maths
On track for a minimum 2:2
Problem-solvers, team players and curious minds who want to play a part in delivering clean power for Great Britain
Bonus if you’ve got a full UK driving licence, but it’s not essential
You don’t need to know everything about the energy system already — just bring your enthusiasm, your fresh perspective, and your desire to learn.
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.)
