2026 Graduate Programme - Energy - Networks

WSP; Manchester; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Graduate in Energy Networks to support innovative projects in the transition to a net-zero economy. This role involves assisting in the design and implementation of robust power networks, engaging in exciting projects with a focus on sustainability and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Join a supportive environment where you can develop your skills and career path in engineering.

Benefits

Graduate Development Programme

Mentorship from industry experts

Networking opportunities

Qualifications

• Graduated with at least a 2:1 in a master's degree.
• Passion for engineering and consulting.
• Desire for infrastructure and creative problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Assisting senior engineers with the design of electrical and civil components.
• Conducting site surveys and initial project assessments.
• Preparing technical reports and specifications.
• Visiting project sites for monitoring and inspections.
• Supporting project managers in scheduling and risk assessments.
• Communicating with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Engineering knowledge

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Education

Master's degree in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

We are looking for graduates for our Energy Networks (Transmission & Distribution) team, who have a flexible approach and an appetite to learn in a leading Engineering and Professional Advisory services consultancy. We want you to enjoy working in a collaborative environment where you can apply your skills working for a diverse range of clients and projects.

Locations

• Manchester
• Glasgow
• Newcastle
• London

Role & Projects

Working as a Graduate in Energy Networks will mean working on exciting and innovative projects, contributing to the engineering and delivery of the nation\'s energy future. It\'s an opportunity to gain knowledge and design critical infrastructure that will enable the UK\'s transition to a net-zero economy. You would be involved in designing and implementing robust power networks that can handle the integration of clean, renewable energy sources, helping to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply for the entire country.

Projects

Working as a Graduate in this team would mean undertaking interesting projects in a dynamic and exciting field. WSP has a rich history in this area, with its roots in the UK dating back over 100 years. Today, you would be working on landmark projects that build on this legacy, such as being a key partner in National Grid\'s Great Grid upgrade, a multi-billion-pound investment to modernise the network. Other exciting projects may include:

• Managing projects for distribution network operators that will grow the EV charging network
• Supplying HS2
• Providing grid connection for large-scale battery energy storage systems
• Great Grid Upgrade Projects with National Grid

The work is tangible, impactful, and at the forefront of the UK\'s green energy transition.

Day-to-day activities could include:

A graduate role in WSP\'s electricity Transmission & Distribution sector involves a mix of technical design, project support, and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams. You would be applying your engineering skills to real-world challenges, supporting senior engineers, and learning the ropes of major infrastructure projects. Here are some of the main responsibilities you could be undertaking:

• Engineering Design Support: Assisting senior engineers with the design of electrical and civil components for transmission and distribution projects, including substations, overhead lines, and underground cable routes.
• Feasibility Studies: Contributing to initial project assessments by conducting site surveys, analysing data, and helping to identify the most effective and sustainable engineering solutions.
• Technical Reporting: Preparing and compiling technical reports, drawings, and specifications that document design choices, calculations, and project progress for clients like National Grid.
• Site Visits and Inspections: Gaining hands-on experience by visiting project sites to survey existing infrastructure, monitor construction progress, and ensure work is being carried out to the required specifications and safety standards.
• Project Management Assistance: Supporting project managers with tasks such as scheduling, cost tracking, and risk assessment to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Assisting in communications with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to coordinate project activities and address any technical queries.
• Continuous Learning: Staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards and engineering technologies.

You will be joining a supportive environment and enthusiastic team, providing you with a challenging and fulfilling career. You\'ll be mentored by industry experts, supported by friendly colleagues, and empowered to pursue chartered or incorporated professional status through our accredited pathways.

Graduate Development Programme

Our two-year Graduate Development programme is designed to support personal and professional development and growth through an engaging blended learning experience. The programmes include core business and professional skills training, career development workshops and resources, valuable networking opportunities, mentoring for professional registration and a breadth of on-the-job experience.

To find out more, please visit: Who we are - ECP

What we will be looking for

You’ll have graduated with at least a 2:1 in a master’s degree in a relevant subject for the role you are applying for. To assist you in finding potential areas of the business that are relevant to you, please visit our Graduate brochure or website.

• Candidates must complete the application form in full answering all specific questions. This requirement applies to all candidates, inclusive of their background. Successful completion of this stage is mandatory. Candidates who pass this initial stage, will then be required to complete an online skill enabler assessment. Both the application form and the skill enabler assessment are essential parts of the early career’s recruitment process.
• You\'ll be looking to start work in either April or September 2026
• You\'ll have a passion for engineering and consulting
• You\'ll have a desire for infrastructure
• An enthusiasm for creativity and a drive to solve problems
• You\'ll want to inspire us, sharing new ideas you have
• In this team, you will be dealing with internal and external stakeholders and collaborating with colleagues and adapting to dynamic project environments.

Dont miss out on applying if you don\'t meet all criteria. Should you have the right qualifications for our roles, apply and we can see how your experience aligns to this role and other opportunities we have available for our Graduate programme.

For further information regarding our Application & Selection process, including timelines for recruitment, please visit our Early Careers brochure - Application and Selection

We review applications for our Early Career opportunities on a rolling basis, which means we begin progressing some candidates to the final stages before the application closing date. To ensure your application receives full consideration, we recommend submitting it as early as possible.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

With us, you can. Apply today.