Graduate Scheme

Graduate Operations Technician In Shoreham

Engineering, Energy & Infrastructure, Management and Operations
Salary: 
£32,888
UK
2452
Position Start Date: 
September 2026
Application deadline:
22/05/2026

Graduate Operations Technician In Shoreham

Company                                          VPI

Job Profile Name                            Production Operations Graduate

Location                                            Shoreham Power Station, Portslade, East Sussex, BN41 1WF

Length of Programme                    2 years

Salary                                                £32,888

 

About VPI

VPI is a leading power generating asset owner, backed by the Vitol Group. VPI currently operates approximately 3.5GW of thermal generating assets in the United Kingdom (where it is the sponsor of one of the leading carbon capture projects in Europe), is the largest operator of battery energy storage system (BESS) assets in Ireland and has recently entered the German market via the acquisition of over 1GW of mature BESS pipeline. VPI’s core mission is to facilitate the energy transition via the provision of reliable dispatchable power which allows for the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources

What is the role?

The two-year graduate programme will provide the candidate with a thorough knowledge of all of aspects of all production related activities at the station. The following will be included:

Carrying out operational routines, familiarisation with the Safety Rules process and identifying control and instrumentation devices and assets.

The programme will include a number of objectives for each placement, and the candidate will be expected to prepare presentations demonstrating how these were delivered and the key learning points.

The candidate will have the opportunity if applicable to join either IMechE or IET on either the Incorporated Engineer or Chartered Engineer route once they have been accepted on the programme.

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.

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.

At the end of the graduate scheme, you will be expected to:

Start, stop and operate a CCGT using computer-based systems, physical plant system including emergency situations protecting the environment, people and plant.

Have the technical capability to optimise plant performance using physical and computer-based indicators.

Be able to handle complex information and make informed decisions under pressure that impact H&S, plant availability and EBITDA.

 

Additional Benefits

25 days holiday: This will be prorated, plus bank holidays.

PMI: Personal Medical Insurance for self.

Insurance: Life Assurance – 6x base salary.

Overtime: 1.5x salary (must be pre-approved).

Pension: Scottish Widows, includes employer contribution to a maximum of 10%.

Perkbox: Points and benefits program, including £50 annual Christmas gift via Perkbox rewards.

Site Gym.

Membership of sites Sports and Social club.

Weekly site fruit delivery.

Free parking at site.

Free EV charging at sites.

 

Who is suitable to apply?

Educated to a Degree standard in Mechanical, Aeronautical, C&I, Electrical and Engineering.

Can be within a 1-hour commute from the power station site without relocation.

The Full Right to work in the UK.

A valid Driving License and access to a car.

Happy to be on site 5 days a week.

A positive 'can do' mentality, self-motivated, setting the right behaviours.

An ability to think laterally and flexibly to deliver solutions and a 'process driven' focus to delivery.

Good communication skills.

Ability to handle multiple work projects running together as the business need arises.

Desire to learn about the UK power market.

Good organisational skills.

Strong IT and Microsoft office capabilities.

Willingness to work a shift pattern.