Rotational Graduate Engineer: Power Plant Ops in Hoddesdon

About VPI

VPI is a leading international power company. Backed by Vitol, they play a vital role in the energy transition, helping to bridge the gap between the now and the next. VPI’s combination of trading and operational mindsets uniquely positions them to anticipate and solve challenges as the transition unfolds. VPI helps their customers tackle their energy needs—whether that’s working with governments to strengthen energy security, partnering with grid operators to enhance stability, or enabling investors to expand into new power solutions. They do this by developing, building, operating, and optimising power assets that deliver reliable, flexible, and low-carbon energy to millions of homes and businesses across their markets. Today, VPI operates in the UK, Ireland, and Germany.

What is the role?

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

• 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 the 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 systems, 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 a £50 annual Christmas gift via Perkbox rewards.
• Site Gym.
• Membership of site Sports and Social club.
• Weekly site fruit delivery.
• Free parking at site.
• Free EV charging at sites.

Who is suitable to apply?

• Educated to Degree standard in Mechanical, Aeronautical, Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
• 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.
• Can be within a 1-hour commute from the power station site.
• Right to work in the UK.
• A valid Driving License and access to a car is essential.
• Happy to be on site 5 days a week.