Operations Controller

National Grid; Stone Cross; On-site; GBP 47,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26% shift allowance

£3,000 market supplement annually

Job summary

National Grid Ventures seeks an Operations Controller for the Nemo Link Interconnector at Richborough Converter Station. You will monitor real-time operations, respond to alarms and incidents, and support investigations and routine checks to ensure safe, reliable interconnection between the UK and Belgium.

You'll work in a 24/7 shift team, stay compliant with safety procedures, and collaborate with cross-border teams across the UK and Belgium to maintain high performance and reliability of

Qualifications

• Experience in a control room or high-demand energy/utility environment.
• Ability to analyze information, respond to alarms and follow procedures.
• Experience with monitoring plant performance and investigations.

Responsibilities

• Monitor Nemo Link Interconnector for safe, reliable operation.
• Respond to alarms and incidents promptly.
• Support investigations and first-line maintenance.
• Maintain records of operations, inspections and maintenance.
• Collaborate with UK/Belgium teams and contractors.
• Escalate risks as needed.

Skills

Control room operations

SCADA systems

Troubleshooting

Operational safety

Communications

Teamwork

Tools

SCADA

HVAC/DC control systems

Job description

About the role

At National Grid Ventures, we're helping connect countries, markets and communities to create a cleaner, more secure energy future. Nemo Link is the first electricity interconnector between Great Britain and Belgium, enabling electricity to flow between neighbouring markets and supporting the delivery of secure, affordable and low‑carbon energy.

We're looking for a Operations Controller to join our team at Richborough Converter Station. Playing a vital role in the safe and reliable operation of one of the UK's most important energy assets, you'll work as part of a 24/7 shift team responsible for monitoring and controlling the Nemo Link Interconnector.

From overseeing real-time system performance to responding to operational events and alarms, you'll help ensure the interconnector remains available and operating safely. You'll support the management of electrical, mechanical and control systems, carry out site inspections, complete routine operational checks and maintain accurate operational records.

You'll also support fault investigation and first-line maintenance activities, assisting with electrical, mechanical and PLC-related troubleshooting in line with established procedures. Working closely with colleagues across the UK and Belgium, you'll contribute to maintaining the high standards of safety, reliability and performance expected of critical national infrastructure.

The role is based on site at Nemolink, in Sandwich. Please note, you must live within an hours travel of site with a full UK driving licence.

This is a shift-based role working a 12-hour rota pattern of four days on, four days off, covering both day and night shifts.

What you'll do

• Monitor and control the Nemo Link Interconnector to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Respond to alarms, operational events and incidents in a timely and effective manner.
• Support emergency response activities and operational investigations.
• Complete routine inspections, operational checks and equipment monitoring.
• Maintain accurate operational, maintenance and inspection records.
• Support first-line maintenance, fault finding and troubleshooting activities.
• Work collaboratively with site teams, contractors and operational partners across the UK and Belgium.
• Escalate operational, safety or reliability risks as appropriate.

What you'll need

• You’ll thrive in an environment where technology, teamwork and problem-solving come together to support the UK's energy infrastructure
• A calm and logical decision-maker, you’ll be comfortable analysing information, responding to changing situations and following defined procedures in a safety-critical environment.
• Strong digital and IT capability, with confidence using operational systems to monitor plant performance, record activities and investigate issues.
• Strong communication skills are equally important, as you’ll work closely with colleagues, contractors and external stakeholders to coordinate safe and effective operations.
• Previous experience in a control room, utilities, engineering, manufacturing, process, energy or operational environment.
• Experience of systems such as SCADA, HV AC/DC control systems, asset management platforms or other operational technologies would be advantageous, although full training will be provided.

What you’ll get

A competitive salary between £47,442.00 - £56,173.50 per annum dependant on capability, plus 26% shift allowance and £3000 market supplement paid annually.

As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.

More Information

This role closes on 18th September 2026 at 23:59, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates - we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria. We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process.

Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.