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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and monitor a state-of-the-art power station while learning from skilled professionals.
- Company: Join Marchwood Power, a leader in UK energy generation with a focus on efficiency.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, private healthcare, and generous holiday allowance.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career and make a real impact on national energy security.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science; passion for engineering and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with opportunities for further education and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
About The Role
AUGUST START
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 as an Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice.
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 as an Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice:
- 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.
What are the career prospects at Marchwood Power?
Marchwood Power has a proven track record of nurturing talent. Upon successful completion of your apprenticeship as an Operations Shift Technician Engineering Apprentice, 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 895MW 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. The facility aims for optimum energy efficiency ensuring minimised impact on the environment per MW. 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. An additional shift allowance payment would then come into effect. Note – The Operations Shift Technician role is day and night work in accordance with the shift rota.
Company Benefits:
- Pension: Salary sacrifice scheme with company matching up to 8.75%
- Holiday: 24 days annual leave (plus bank hols), increasing to 27 days with an option to purchase more
- Health & Wellbeing: Private Healthcare, Life Assurance, and Long-term Disability Insurance
- Perks: Electric Vehicle & Cycle to Work schemes, plus an Employee Assistance Programme
If you want to start your career as Operations Shift Technician Apprentice, we want to hear from you! Click apply below to register your interest!
Employment is subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Power Plant Ops Apprentice: Shift Technician in Southampton employer: PETA LTD
Contact Detail:
PETA LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Power Plant Ops Apprentice: Shift Technician in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Marchwood Power and understand their operations. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to engineering and teamwork. Mock interviews with friends can help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Power Plant Ops Apprentice: Shift Technician in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering: Make sure to highlight your genuine interest in engineering and how it relates to power generation. We want to see that you’re excited about learning and understanding complex systems!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experiences that match the role of Operations Shift Technician. We love seeing candidates who put in the effort!
Be Clear and Professional: Your written communication skills are key, so keep your application clear and professional. Use proper grammar and structure to show us you can communicate effectively, which is super important in our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Marchwood Power!
How to prepare for a job interview at PETA LTD
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of power generation and engineering principles. Familiarise yourself with Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) technology and be ready to discuss how it works and its importance in the energy sector.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your genuine interest in engineering and the role. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your curiosity about how complex systems operate, and express your eagerness to learn and grow within the industry.
✨Practice Problem-Solving
Prepare for potential technical questions by practising problem-solving scenarios related to operations and maintenance. Think about how you would approach identifying hazards or conducting inspections, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since clear communication is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and professionally. Whether it's discussing your qualifications or answering questions, ensure you convey your ideas effectively and confidently.