Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice in Southampton

Are you curious about UK Power Generation and how engineering supports manufacturing, quality, and national energy security? PETA Ltd are looking to recruit an exceptional Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice for our client, Marchwood Power Ltd.

This isn’t just a desk job; it’s a front-row seat to the processes that power nearly one million homes. You will learn to operate, monitor, and fault-find on a state‑of‑the‑art Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power station, working with a highly skilled team to keep the lights on across the UK.

About the Role & Responsibilities

Working within a twenty-strong operations team and reporting to the Operations and Maintenance Lead, you will develop the technical expertise required to manage the multi-million pound asset.

Core Responsibilities:

• Ensuring the safe and efficient operation of all company assets within designated limits (including steam chemistry and emissions).
• Operating the plant to meet commercial requirements using data handling software.
• Regularly inspecting equipment, identifying hazards, and applying plant isolations to ensure ‘Safety from the System’.
• Undertaking proactive maintenance and production projects to maximize plant availability.
• Progressing toward supervising contract staff and ensuring compliance with Marchwood’s Safe Systems of Work.

Training to be Provided:

You will be enrolled in a Level 3 Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician Apprenticeship. This 36-48 month program balances hands‑on experience with academic learning:

• Work‑Based Learning: On‑the‑job training at Marchwood Power, supported by a dedicated company mentor.
• Formal Education: Weekly day‑release training at PETA’s Havant site.
• Technical Skills: You will learn 2D/3D CAD, create operating instructions, and support quality assurance activities.
• Future Growth: Upon successful progress, there is the option for further education, including an HNC or higher.

The successful candidate will join the team in August 2026.

Career Prospects:

Marchwood Power has a proven track record of nurturing talent. Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship, we aim to offer:

• Full‑time employment as a qualified Operations Shift Technician.
• Continued professional development tailored to your specific area of interest within the energy sector.

Essential Skills:

An apprenticeship is all about learning new knowledge, skills and behaviours, therefore, to be considered for this role you must be able to demonstrate a genuine technical interest and a willingness to learn.

For the role of an Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice, we are looking for an analytical thinker who takes pride in high‑quality work and thrives in a team environment.

Essential Criteria:

• Minimum of 4 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) in Maths, English, and Science.
• A genuine passion for engineering and a desire to understand how complex systems work.
• Clear, professional verbal and written communication skills.
• Comfortable using standard software and learning bespoke technical systems.
• Strong time management with an ability to prioritise conflicting demands, adaptability, and the initiative to improve processes.

Desirable Criteria:

• An analytical mind with a natural approach to problem‑solving.
• A keen eye for detail in high‑pressure environments.

About Us:

Marchwood Power Limited owns and operates a multi‑million pound natural gas‑fired Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power station on Marchwood Industrial Park, near Southampton. Marchwood Power Station began generating electricity in 2009. The station generates approximately 895 MW of electricity for the national grid, enough to supply nearly one million homes. This is equivalent to the needs of Southampton, the New Forest and Winchester. It is one of the most efficient power stations in the UK.

In year 4 it is anticipated that the role will change to shift work in accordance with the shift rota which is 12 hour shifts.