Distribution Craft Trainee, Reading

Build a Long‑Term Skilled Career Supporting the Energy Transition – Substation Fitter / Overhead Linesperson / Cable Jointer

Base Location: Poole, New Forest, Slough, Theale, Salisbury

Salary: circa £17,666 to begin the programme. Upon completion (~2 years) salary rises to circa £36,686 plus opportunities for overtime and progression.

Working Pattern: Permanent – 2-year Trainee Programme

Start Date: September 2026

Our two‑year Craft Trainee Programme combines structured training with real work experience on the electricity network. You will work outdoors, attend college to gain a qualification, learn from expert craft teams and progress towards becoming an authorised Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson, building a long‑term career in a vital industry.

Choose Your Path

• Substation Fitter – Work on electrical infrastructure across our network, maintaining, installing and upgrading equipment that keeps power on for customers.
• Cable Jointer – Specialise in underground cables, repairing faults, connecting new customers and improving the resilience of the network.
• Overhead Linesperson – Work at height on the overhead electricity network, building and maintaining power lines and restoring supplies during faults.

Programme Offers

• A structured two‑year programme combining paid, on‑the‑job training with hands‑on experience and a Technical Certificate in Electrical Power Engineering.
• Practical outdoor work supporting teams to maintain, repair and upgrade the electricity network in local communities.
• Training at dedicated training centres followed by on‑the‑job learning and support from experienced craft colleagues.
• All tools, PPE and equipment are provided, including required business travel and accommodation.
• A permanent skilled craft role on completion, with a starting salary of around £36,686, plus overtime and clear opportunities for career progression.

What We’re Looking For

• Enjoy hands‑on, practical work and are comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
• Be a quick learner with a positive attitude, ready to build new technical skills with support from experienced teams.
• Show commitment and resilience to complete a two‑year programme, including periods of training away from home.
• Maintain a strong focus on safety and follow procedures in a safety‑critical environment.
• Be comfortable working at height for the Overhead Linesperson and Substation Fitter pathways and willing to undertake physical outdoor tasks.
• Work towards a driving licence, with a full UK licence expected by the end of the programme.
• In England, be 18+ when you start the programme in September.

What to Expect & What You’ll Gain

Over the two‑year programme you will complete a structured, paid training programme that combines field experience with learning at our internal training schools. You’ll gain industry‑recognised qualifications, develop specialist technical skills and build confidence to work safely and effectively across our network.

Some training will be delivered in block release, meaning you may need to stay away from home for several weeks at a time. We will fully support your travel and accommodation so you can focus on developing your skills and progressing through the programme.

By the end of the trainee programme you will be ready for a rewarding, skilled role as a qualified Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson, with a clear pathway for future career progression.

What We Provide

• Fully funded training to become a qualified craft person.
• All tools and PPE required for the role.
• A skills‑based pay matrix so your salary increases as you develop your skills (once qualified).
• Career stability within a sustainable industry with ongoing progression opportunities.
• Access to a range of other benefits to support your family, finances and wellbeing.

Benefits

• Discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships.
• Wellbeing benefits such as a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service.
• Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets and a new bike through our Cycle to Work scheme.
• Generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

About SSE

SSE’s purpose is to provide the energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keeps customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low‑carbon future.

Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Adjustments

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. We do not sponsor visas for this role as the salary does not meet the UKVI minimum salary threshold.

Pre‑Employment Screening

Before commencing employment with SSE, applicants will be required to fully complete our pre‑employment screening process, which consists of a basic criminal record and credit check.