Electricity distribution workers install and maintain the network that supplies electricity from power stations to homes, industry and businesses.

• overhead lines and pylon work – linespersons build and repair overhead power lines
• underground cable work – cable jointers connect customers to the electricity supply network and join and repair cables
• substation work – electrical fitters install, repair and maintain the equipment that controls, protects and monitors electricity flow.

• keeping all equipment in good working order
• switching operations
• installing equipment such as transmission cables
• assembling or removing components
• adjusting and configuring electrical systems
• inspecting, testing and diagnosing faults.  

Hours and Environment

Electricity distribution workers normally work a 37-hour week which may include working some weekends. Overtime and standby duties are likely.

The work is often very physical and involves lifting, bending and carrying. Depending on the job, workers can be out in all weather conditions. Work on underground cabling is often in trenches, which may be cramped. Work on overhead lines is at height with safety equipment. Substation work is likely to be indoors.

Electricity distribution workers must follow strict safety rules at all times.

Skills and Interests

To be an electricity distribution worker you should:

• have good practical skills
• be physically fit
• have a basic knowledge of physics and maths to understand the principles of electricity distribution
• have good communication skills
• be able to solve problems
• be able to work on your own without supervision
• respect health and safety rules.

Entry

You do not always need qualifications to become an electricity distribution worker, although some employers may ask for some GCSEs/S grades or equivalent qualifications like NVQs. Check entry requirements with individual employers - you can find company contact details in local telephone directories or on the internet.

You may be able to get into this job through an apprenticeship scheme. Funding for apprenticeships is available for 16-24 year olds and some over-25s. To find out more, visit . For information about apprenticeships in other parts of the UK, see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

For an apprenticeship you will usually need four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), including maths, English, and another relevant subject such as science, engineering or design and technology.

If you are not joining the industry through an apprenticeship scheme, you will find it useful to have previous experience or qualifications in electrical engineering and maintenance.

Employers may expect you to be registered in a safety passport scheme - see the Training section for more details of schemes.

Training

You will be trained by your employer, usually through a mixture of on-the-job training and some formal courses at a training centre. You will usually work towards the following City & Guilds (2353) NVQ/SVQs:

• NVQ/SVQ Level 2 Electricity Systems Technology Engineering Support
• NVQ/SVQ Level 3 Electricity Systems Technology Engineering.

Opportunities

Regional electricity companies employ electricity distribution workers. Contact individual companies for information about job vacancies - addresses in telephone directories or on the internet. 

Electricity distribution workers may be able to progress to a supervisory job, usually after gaining NVQ/SVQ level 3.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Starting salaries for apprenticeships are usually £10,000 to £15,000 a year.
Experienced workers with a level 3 qualification may earn between £25,000 and £45,000.

Further information

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