Job Description

Job Introduction

An opportunity is available for an Assistant Helicopter Observer based at Bristol Airport.


With 92,000 kms of overhead lines to be checked and maintained, our unique, Bristol Airport-based Helicopter Unit operates 5 H135 aircraft to patrol the National Grid Electricity Distribution network.


The helicopters and their crew can efficiently and effectively patrol between 45,000 and 50,000 kms every year, covering large distances in relatively short times, improving response times to faults and enabling National Grid Distribution to meet our commitments to restoring customers' power.


Each helicopter is crewed with a pilot, an observer and assistant observer, who are focused on identifying defects and faults, and they are supported by a small team of engineers.


Its exciting work and safety is our priority. So our helicopter teams are regularly checked and trained.




Main Responsibilities

You will be required to undertake duties associated with overhead line inspection from a helicopter using high definition, thermal, corona and stills cameras along with a suite of sensing technologies. You will also be responsible for assisting the Helicopter Observers in programming work, maintaining records of patrols, monitoring and managing large volumes of data, working with LiDAR, liaising with NGED Operational teams and other DNO's on all matters concerning Line Patrol plus any other additional tasks appropriate to the grade.


The Ideal Candidate

You will have excellent IT skills including the use of Outlook, Word and Excel. An understanding of overhead electrical line design, construction or maintenance would be desirable although full training will be provided.


You will be quick thinking, alert, adaptable to different working environments and have an aptitude for map reading. Much of the working time will be spent flying in a helicopter so it is essential that the successful applicant is able to work in this environment understandably, given the role, previous aviation experience would be advantageous.


There will be a requirement, normally one week in every four, for you to work away from home Monday to Friday. You will also be required to undertake out of hours duties (including weekends), a full driving license is therefore essential and successful applicants shall live within 60 minutes of Bristol Airport.


National Grid Electricity Distribution is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Company, colleagues and customers. This role is subject to a satisfactory Barring Service, (DBS) check, depending on the role different levels of screening and vetting are required. Some roles require a triannual check.


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About The Company

Joining the UK's leading electricity distribution business means plenty of career opportunities and well-deserved recognition. We reward hard work and encourage ambition. So, as well as a competitive salary, you will also benefit from:

26 days paid leave plus 8 bank holidays, up to 28 days with continuous service Competitive contributory pension scheme (we double match your contributions up to a maximum of 12%) Annual Share Save plan Contributory private healthcare scheme for you and your family Support via our Employee Assistance Programme, including musculoskeletal and physiotherapy services Free on-site parking at all our main sites

Things you need to know

As an equal opportunities employer who is committed to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, we celebrate individual difference and are actively bringing in more employees from diverse backgrounds to build on our inclusive culture. We anonymise all applications in our recruitment system so we can eliminate unconscious bias and be a workplace that reflects the community we serve. Hiring managers only have access to necessary information at interview stage. If you require additional support to complete your online application, please email nged.recruitment@nationalgrid.co.uk


Recruitment correspondence is usually sent by email, please check your email account including spam/junk folders regularly after the closing date.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should sufficient numbers of suitable applications be received, so it would be best to apply as soon as you can.

About Us

We're National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver heat, light and power for homes and businesses.


National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. We are building an inclusive workplace, a place to actively celebrate the cultures, personalities and preferences of our colleagues - who in turn help to build the success of our business and reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast-moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources that are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.