Operations Technician – Power Generation in Antrim

Location: Kilroot & Ballylumford, Northern Ireland

Salary: £33,000 - £43,000 (Grade 13) + Approx. £8,000 Shift Allowance + Structured Progression to £39,000 - £51,000

This is an outstanding opportunity to join one of Europe's leading power generation businesses as an Operations Technician, where you'll complete a structured 2-3 year development programme designed to equip you with the skills, qualifications and experience needed to build a long-term career in power generation.

Whether your background is in maintenance, manufacturing, engineering, utilities, process operations or the Armed Forces, this role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving problems, wants to keep learning and is looking for genuine career progression.

From day one, you'll receive structured mentoring, industry-recognised training and ongoing support from experienced Operations Engineers. The company is investing heavily in developing the next generation of Operations Technicians and is far more interested in finding people with the right attitude than expecting every technical skill from the outset.

Throughout the programme you'll complete a range of internal and external training courses, including High Voltage Authorisation, Gas Plant and Mechanical Plant training, Environmental Compliance, City & Guilds qualifications and specialist operational courses. Every stage of your development is designed to prepare you for a fully competent role operating critical power generation assets.

Based across both Kilroot and Ballylumford Power Stations, you'll play an important role in the safe operation of the plant, ensuring electricity is generated safely, efficiently and reliably.

Working alongside experienced engineers, you'll learn how to operate and monitor gas turbines, steam turbines and generators, carry out routine plant inspections, identify and report equipment defects, assist with plant start-ups and shutdowns, safely isolate equipment for maintenance, monitor plant performance and respond to operational issues. You'll also develop the technical knowledge required to become an Authorised Person while working closely with Operations and Maintenance teams to maximise plant availability.

As your knowledge and confidence grow, so will your level of responsibility, providing an excellent platform for long-term career progression.

The company is looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about engineering and keen to build a career within the energy sector. You'll be someone who enjoys learning, takes pride in your work, shows initiative and works well as part of a team. A logical approach to problem-solving, good communication skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are all important.

You’ll ideally have completed a recognised engineering apprenticeship, have a trade or engineering background, or possess experience within maintenance, manufacturing, utilities, heavy industry, process plant or a similar technical environment. Applications are also welcomed from ex-Armed Forces personnel with engineering or technical experience.

The successful candidate will receive a starting salary of £33,000-£43,000 (Grade 13) plus a shift allowance of approximately £8,000 per year. Upon successful completion of the development programme, you'll progress to Grade 14, with a salary ranging from £39,000-£51,000.

In addition to a competitive salary, you'll benefit from fully funded professional training and qualifications, structured career development, excellent long-term progression opportunities and the chance to work on some of the UK's most critical power generation infrastructure.

You’ll initially complete your training on a daytime rota before progressing to the operational shift pattern, which includes a combination of days, afternoons and nights.