Assistant Engineer Graduate - Hydrogen (Mechanical, Materials or Safety)

An Assistant Engineer graduate role supporting hydrogen projects through engineering studies, technical reviews, technology research and project coordination to help develop lower-carbon energy infrastructure.

National Gas is responsible for operating and maintaining Britain's national gas transmission network, helping to keep the lights on, businesses running and homes warm. 

We manage the critical infrastructure that safely and reliably transport gas across Great Britain, supporting the energy security that millions of people depend on every day.

While delivering for Britain today, we're also preparing for tomorrow. Through innovation, investment and the development of future energy infrastructure, we're helping to create a cleaner and more sustainable energy system for generations to come.

As a graduate, you'll be given meaningful responsibility from the start, supported to develop professionally, and empowered to contribute to projects that have a real impact on the nation's energy future. Whether you're solving complex challenges, driving innovation or delivering essential services, you'll play an important role in an organisation with genuine purpose.

About the Role

Join our Hydrogen & New Molecules team and help shape the future of the UK's energy network. As an Assistant Engineer Graduate, you'll work on innovative projects that are exploring how hydrogen can support the transition to a lower-carbon energy future. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to projects that are helping to develop the next generation of energy infrastructure while learning from experienced engineers and industry specialists. 

You'll gain hands-on experience across a variety of engineering and project activities, developing both your technical knowledge and professional skills. Working with teams across the business, you'll build an understanding of how new technologies are assessed, designed and introduced safely into the energy network. 

Day-to-day, you could be:

•    Supporting engineering studies and technical reviews for hydrogen projects.
•    Helping review engineering documents, specifications and reports.
•    Supporting workshops and activities that help identify and manage project risks.
•    Preparing presentations, reports and recommendations for project teams.
•    Researching new technologies and industry developments.
•    Monitoring project progress and helping coordinate key actions.
•    Working with colleagues from different teams to support project delivery.
•    Contributing to projects that help shape the future of energy in the UK. 

Throughout the programme, you'll gain experience in engineering design, project delivery, technical assurance and risk management. You'll develop strong communication, stakeholder management and problem-solving skills while building an understanding of hydrogen technologies and future energy systems.

About You

We're looking for someone who is curious, motivated and excited by the future of energy. You won't be expected to know everything from day one, but you should enjoy learning, solving problems and working collaboratively with others. 

You'll be someone who:

•    Has a genuine interest in engineering and emerging technologies.
•    Enjoys solving complex problems and thinking analytically.
•    Works well with others and builds positive relationships.
•    Is comfortable asking questions and seeking feedback.
•    Takes ownership of their work and personal development.
•    Communicates clearly and confidently.
•    Has a positive, proactive approach to learning.
•    Enjoys working in a fast-moving and innovative environment. 

A standout candidate will be curious, enthusiastic and excited by the opportunity to contribute to the UK's energy transition. They'll enjoy understanding how things work, exploring new ideas and applying their knowledge to real-world challenges. They'll be proactive, eager to learn and motivated to develop into a future engineering professional. 

What you'll need

You'll hold, or be on track to achieve, a degree in a relevant engineering discipline. Suitable degree subjects include:

•    Mechanical Engineering
•    Chemical Engineering
•    Materials Engineering
•    Or another related engineering discipline. 

We're interested in your potential and transferable skills as much as your academic background.

A strong application might include examples of:

•    Solving technical or engineering-related problems.
•    Working on university projects, research or design activities.
•    Analysing information and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
•    Collaborating with others to achieve a shared goal.
•    Presenting ideas clearly to different audiences.
•    Demonstrating initiative and a willingness to learn. 

Relevant placement experience, project work or extracurricular activities would be beneficial, but they aren't essential. What matters most is your enthusiasm to learn, your problem-solving ability and your interest in engineering, innovation and future energy solutions.

A good application will include a cover letter to help us understand why you're a great fit for the role. Be sure to include any other relevant experience or university modules.

The Essentials

This is an 18-month fixed-term graduate programme. You must have the right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme. All participants on our Graduate Scheme are subject to National Security Vetting (NSV). Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain Security Clearance (SC) throughout their employment.

As part of the programme, you'll have opportunities to work from different National Gas project locations, helping you gain exposure to a variety of projects, stakeholders and working environments. This means travel beyond your usual place of work will be required throughout the programme. Due to the nature of the role, you'll need a full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle by the time you join the programme.

What you can expect from us

You’ll receive a range of benefits that reward your great work.  

• Starting annual salary of £34,646, with annual performance-based increases

• A generous holiday allowance of 26 days plus statutory bank holidays, with the option to buy and sell additional days (capped at 5 days)

• 2 paid days each financial year to volunteer for a worthwhile cause

• A generous pension scheme with a double-match contribution – if you contribute 6%, we’ll contribute 12%, helping you build a strong financial future

• Professional development and career progression

• Employee assistance programme offering free confidential professional counselling 24 hours per day

• A free on-site gym, as well as complimentary classes 

At National Gas, we pride ourselves on a supportive and collaborative work environment. We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and support our employees in achieving it.  We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can perform at their best, where every team member feels valued and supported. 

You'll be mentored by experienced professionals and have opportunities to work on impactful projects. We ensure that you gain hands-on experience, with opportunities for career advancement and professional development. 

We encourage all graduates to take ownership of their journey. You'll strive to grow and develop, taking advantage of all that National Gas has to offer.