NIE Networks launches apprenticeship programme

NIE Networks has launched its Apprenticeship Programme with online applications is now open until 19th February.

The company is recruiting 27 new apprentices across three different skill streams; overhead line engineering, underground cable jointing and plant maintenance electricians.

The apprentices will obtain a vocational qualification in Electrical Power Engineering and a technical Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

The programme is open to anyone who will be aged 16 or over by September and you must hold, or expect to achieve, 3 GCSE passes at Grades D-A* (Grades 3-9) or equivalent including mathematics, English language and a STEM related subject. 

Successful candidates will earn while they learn, avoiding student loans and gaining vital experience as part of their qualification.  The salary starts at around £15,500 plus and there are set milestones for progression before it rises to approximately £29,000 or more upon completion. 

John Burns, Technical Training Manager with NIE Networks, said: “The electrical industry in Northern Ireland is at a transformational juncture so the opportunities that lie ahead for our apprentices are varied and exciting.

"Our vision is to provide an electricity network that is safe and reliable, capable of facilitating a net zero carbon future and one that meets the longer term needs of our society so we need to secure a passionate and skilled workforce.”

The NIE Networks Apprenticeship Programme is the only Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) Accredited apprenticeship in Northern Ireland.

The company has bespoke training facilities in Ballymena, Campsie and Silverwood, Craigavon and apprentices are supported by specialist instructors who mentor them through their qualification.

John continued “An apprenticeship is an excellent start to your career, it allows you to earn money, avoid student loans and finish with a qualification alongside hands-on experience.  NIE Networks is passionate about supporting people to be the best they can be and as some previous apprentices are now on our senior management board, the sky really is the limit in terms of what you can achieve.” 

The organisation is keen to encourage a diverse range of applications and particularly welcomes applications from females, ethnic minorities and those from the disabled community.  They are also supportive of individuals who have worked in a completely different profession but want a career change and those currently working in construction who would like to secure permanent work in Northern Ireland.

Robert Robb has just completed a three year overhead lines apprenticeship with NIE Networks and is now a trainee linesperson and looking forward to supporting others through the programme.

He said “I was one of the older apprentices within my cohort and I aimed to reskill as I came from a job where work was not always consistent.

"The thought of a good career in a solid firm and steady salary appealed to me. I was aiming to study within the electrical field which would have taken a number of years and would have been hard financially. Upon hearing about the apprenticeship program within NIE Networks, I was excited about the prospect of not only learning on the job, but also getting paid whilst learning. 

"I found the training and knowledge I received from my colleagues on site imperative to helping me through the apprentice program and if I can do the same for others, that would be very rewarding.”

The apprenticeship scheme has been shortlisted in the DfE Apprenticeship Awards 2023 under the Large Employer category, along with their partners in Northern Regional College.

NIE Networks was also awarded Best Apprenticeship Scheme at the national CIPD People Management Awards UK.  The company also holds a Bronze Diversity Charter Mark for its commitment to driving a positive gender balance and inclusive workplace.

Applications close on 19 February at 11pm. For further information or to apply, visit www.nienetworks.co.uk/ apprenticeships