Production Technican

THE ROLE: Shift Production Technician

LOCATION: VPI Damhead Creek, Kent

SALARY: Competitive + shift allowance

THE CLIENT

VPI is a preeminent power company, part of the Vitol Group. With responsiveness and ability to act swiftly at its core, as well as breadth of experience that spans operations and trading, we are a system solver for the problems that must be resolved to enable the energy transition.

We are already one of the leading Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) operators in the UK, with assets across five locations capable of generating 3.3GW of power. Our efficient and flexible generation portfolio complements an increased use of renewables as part of the energy system, ensuring security of supply in the power grid.

At the same time, we are solving for decarbonisation of gas-fired dispatchable generation, as well as industrial clusters. For example, we are part of Humber Zero, a project to decarbonise critical energy intensive industry in the Humber. Humber Zero is a carbon capture and storage (CCS) project on the south bank of the Humber Estuary. The large-scale decarbonisation project will remove up to 8-million tonnes per annum of CO2 at the Immingham industrial site within the next 7 years.  This represents a meaningful reduction in national CO2 emissions, while protecting local jobs and supporting the region’s economy.

Finally, we are anticipating the shift to zero-carbon storage technologies that will provide flexibility and stability in the energy system in the long term. We are building our portfolio in these areas, and creating a suite of services to suit corporate and grid needs.

VPI has an ambitious growth agenda. We are growing our portfolio in the UK and abroad. We can see an energy system that is changing rapidly and fundamentally. As a company that holds on to a system wide view and responds at pace, we see opportunity in this complex and fast-changing ecosystem.

THE POSITION

An opportunity has arisen for a Production Technician based at Damhead Creek. To support the Production Team Leader on a shift basis, in all production related activities at the station. In addition, ensure Damhead is monitored and operated effectively in line with energy management requirements.

Ideal candidates will have had CCGT experience, but we will also consider any applicants from similar disciplines such as EfW, nuclear, etc.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The post holder will be expected to undertake a wide range of tasks within their level of competence. The following will be included:

• Ensure that Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant is operated in a safe and efficient manner.
• Support the Production Team Leader in all production related activities.
• Analyse and diagnose plant related problems.
• Ensure compliance with relevant statutory requirements particularly the Health & Safety at Work Act and the Environmental Protection Act
• Implement company, business and station policies as they apply to the operation of the station.
• Implement the safety rules up to the level of HV Senior Authorised Person / Safety Co-ordinator (in accordance with development matrix) and ensure safety from the system is achieved.
• Review the operational requirements of the designated station and assist inpromoting change and improvement where agreed.
• Communicate with management and National Grid to ensure designated station meets its obligations under REMIT and load profiles are followed/ maintained.
• Carry out self-audits on the application of HSE legislation on site and undertake behavioural audits of contractors and site staff.
• Develop understanding of the business and station objectives.
• Carry out production routines & routine plant testing activities.
• Undertake specific projects and work activities to develop skills and knowledge.
• Manage and supervise contractors on production managed contracts.
• Undertake maintenance activities in line with competence and capability

DIMENSION

• Start, stop and operate a CCGT using computer based systems, physical plant system including emergency situations protecting the environment, people and plant.
• Having a technical capability to optimise plant performance using physical and computer based indicators.
• Responsible for delivering specific safety rules duties that allow people to work safely
• Able to handle complex information, and make informed decisions under pressure that impact H&S, plant availability and EBITDA.

DESIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum Apprenticeship/ONC, or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline. Ideally, will have previous experience in an industry based role.
• Computer literacy skills.
• At least 2 years experience in the maintenance and/or the operation of a CCGT plant.
• Demonstration of team working skills.
• Knowledge and experience of the principles of working safely.
• Focused on achieving results and keen to develop skills
• Self-motivated with a flexible approach.
• Ability to support other disciplines electrical, mechanical, control and instrumentation with work planning and plant diagnostics
• Working knowledge of health, safety and environmental legislation

PLANNING & ORGANISATION

• An aptitude for teamwork.
• Able to communicate with all levels of staff and management, both verbally and in written reports.
• An ability to prioritise workload under pressure.
• Ability to analyse and diagnose problems in a rational and positive manner.
• Good organisation and time management skills