Higher Apprentice Cost Estimator, Procurement

Estimating means accurately determining the cost of a proposed construction project before it is built. Cost Estimating involves analysing project scopes and drawings, researching labour, plant and material costs, and creating a detailed, accurate cost estimate of the project. Cost Estimating is an essential part of the project development cycle, and is used to help National Grid determine the feasibility of a project, secure funding, and establish a project’s budget. Estimators also drive continuous improvement, by reflecting on the actual cost once a project has been delivered.

Joining the Higher Apprentice Cost Estimator 24-month programme within the Construction Procurement team offers an excellent way to begin your career within Cost Estimation. Over the course of the Apprenticeship, you will be given a balance of real responsibility on current projects, alongside an extensive network of colleagues to learn from, as well as a variety of training courses to enhance your professional development.

Within National Grid you could be producing cost estimates for our electricity construction projects, assisting with generating customer connection offers, creating cost models for asset replacement works and analysing tender returns from our suppliers.

You’re an effective communicator, who can engage with a range of stakeholders for a variety of purposes and contribute in a positive and collaborative manner to achieving common goals. You’re able to build mutually beneficial relationships across the business that will achieve successful outcomes.

You’re a problem-solver, with the ability to apply critical, creative, and evidence-based thinking to develop innovative strategies to meet business needs and deliver long term value.

Being self-aware and reflective, you can engage in a professional manner and possess leadership and influencing skills. Having flexibility and resilience, you have the capacity to accept and give constructive feedback, always acting with integrity and taking responsibility for your actions.

You have strong analytical skills, with the ability to collect, process, and interpret data, identifying patterns and trends to inform decision making.

You’ll need to have a GCSE in English Language and Maths at Grade C or above (or equivalent) with one of the following:

• 2 A levels / A2: Grades A* to C (or equivalent) in any discipline
• BTEC National Certificate OR Diploma Level 3, grade Merit or Distinction
• HNC/HND grade Pass, Merit or Distinction
• Degree in any discipline

We’re proud to offer a starting salary of £25,874.

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

• 25 days annual leave + statutory holidays
• Pension scheme and Sharesave options
• Invitation to join NewNet, our new starters network and one of our employee resource groups
• Flexible Benefits & Working
• Close mentorship and regular feedback
• Volunteering opportunities

You will work within one of the largest Procurement departments in the Midlands, gaining skills and experience from highly experienced colleagues. You’ll be offered a detailed induction and access to training courses that will set you up for a career in National Grid.

As part of the Higher Apprenticeship, you will gain a level 4 Diploma in Project Management which has been accredited by the APM (Association of Project Management), as well as working towards certification by the ICEAA (International Cost Estimating and Analysis Association). Whether you’re keen to earn while you learn, or if you already have a degree and are looking to specialize in a vital, demanding and growing area, this is a brilliant opportunity to gain a respected professional qualification in the field.

National Grid is at the heart of the energy future, and our people are at the heart of National Grid. We’re 30,000 colleagues strong. In the UK, National Grid don’t generate or sell energy – we join the dots to get energy from A to B. From making a cup of tea in the morning, to keeping the lights on in hospitals, our electricity network puts power in the hands of people. Without it, the world as we know it would grind to a halt.

The world of energy is changing beyond recognition as we focus on building a cleaner, greener future. Working at National Grid, you won’t just be touching the lives of almost everyone in the UK – you’ll be shaping the way we use and consume energy for generations to come.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to these values is unwavering and they are central to our mission. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and we are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments that you require.

The closing date for this role is 6th March 2023, however, we encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure you obtain the place you want in the application process.

Assessment centres will be held from March 2023.

At National Grid, we work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.

Our goal is to drive, develop and operate our business in a way that results in a more inclusive culture. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, the innovation from diverse teams & perspectives and business need. We are committed to building a workforce so we can represent the communities we serve and have a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential.