Heat Network Graduate Trainee

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for one Graduate to join as a Heat Network Graduate, based in Shipley, West Yorkshire. 

Switch2 are recognised as a leading Heat Network specialist in the UK.  The decarbonisation of heat is an essential component of the UK’s Net Zero plans, and we are at the forefront of this energy sector.

There will be a graduate programme to provide recruits with a strong grounding, through training, business application and site work.  The programme will include rotation of positions between different departments giving a greater oversight of the business.

We are looking for numerate candidates who can bring enthusiasm to our projects in the sustainability sector of Heat Networks where we provide an End-to-End service. The opportunities will cover the breadth of our construction / retrofit / services business, which includes; 

• Consultancy / Retrofit – Heat Network Technical overview and Heat Network Efficiency improvements
• ESCo’s – Energy Services Company
• CEM’s – Contract Energy Management
• O&M – Operation and Maintenance
• D&B – Design and Build

It is an exciting time for our industry with the planned growth to meet the Government targets for decarbonisation. These targets mean a six-fold increase from the current base, and it will provide long-term career opportunities.

The candidates will be able to apply their talents in defining the roles and developing the Switch2 business.

Main purpose of the role

1. Graduate programme to develop future heat network professionals encapsulating:
   1. Heat Network principles and design
   2. Residential Heat Network Operations and Optimisation
   3. Products
   4. Regulation and Consumer Protection
2. Support the Consultancy business with
   1. optimisation survey work and grant applications
   2. technical assurance standards implementation
3. Technical assessment of heat network schemes to provide costing proposals.

Working with the engineering, sales, and bid team to provide a comprehensive response to tender proposals.

Training

The applicant will be provided with training and support as part of a Graduate Programme.  Switch2 have significant in-house knowledge and experience from over 35 years in this business with a team that can provide training and support. 

It is envisaged that recruits would rotate between two main roles within;

1. Consultancy – undertaking
   1. Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) aligned work
   2. Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) aligned work and

Business Development - supporting bids with estimating and tender submissions.

Key tasks across the main roles

Common tasks

1. Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset
2. Strong analytical and mathematical skills, with the ability to interpret technical data and drawings accurately.
3. Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
4. Undertake site survey/ investigation work as required.
5. Ensure all deadlines are met.
6. Client liaison.

Consultancy

1. Data analysis including analysis of extended meter data, including Techno-Economic modelling.
2. Condition surveys of heat networks and analysis of survey findings.
3. Network efficiency and tariff calculation for portfolio of Switch2 heat networks.
4. Identifying improvement works on portfolio of Switch2 heat networks.
5. Cost benefit analysis of retrofit measures.
6. Preparation of reports covering survey findings, analysis of results and recommendations for further interventions.
7. Preparation of drawings and tender documents.
8. Grant applications for both survey and capital measures.

Business Development

1. Manage estimates from initial enquiry/ quote through to final award.
2. Analyse and gain a thorough understanding of all project requirements and technical specifications to develop accurate and comprehensive cost estimates for all elements of the opportunity.
3. Full take-off of services drawings and specifications for pricing including subcontracted elements as required.
4. Preparation of comprehensive enquiry documentation for all aspects of supply chain works.
5. Work with internal stakeholders to maintain and further develop our supply chain database.
6. Work with internal stakeholders to maintain and further develop our sustainable procurement processes and policy.
7. Support the tender team/ process in ensuring the most economically advantageous solutions are identified and priced / included within our submissions/ proposals.
8. Negotiate with the supply chain as appropriate to ensure best prices are obtained.
9. Work with the tender team to identify potential risks associated with the opportunity and contribute towards/ help maintain the tender risk register.
10. Work closely with the tender team and operations team as required on pricing submissions.
11. Ensure all Employers Requirements, including SLA’s, are understood/ incorporated into our submissions.
12. Maintain a high level of accuracy in all aspects of the estimating process.

Knowledge and Experience

Interest in sustainability and decarbonisation.

Heat loss, volume, energy and pressure loss calculations.

Experience of district heating and/or communal heating is advantageous.

Skills / Qualifications

Recent degree in relevant engineering discipline (2024 or last few years).

Intermediate Microsoft Excel, Word, Teams software.

Good communication skills.

Attention to detail.

Good team working

Ability to communicate verbally and in writing

Advantageous:

Experience using Microsoft Project

Experience using AutoCAD.

Other requirements:

Clean driving license.

Willingness to travel, some overnight stays may be required as part of the role.

Application Submission

Curriculum Vitae along with Covering Letter.

Covering letter to include an application statement that covers:

• Personal interest in the sustainability sector.
• Understanding of Switch2 and our role within the heat network sector.
• Career ambitions.

Any pertinent points within CV that should be high-lighted.