Power Plant Operator

Questech Recruitment Ltd; Newton on Trent; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an Assistant Operator for a new clean energy hydrogen production plant in England. The role involves assisting with the safe operation of the plant, monitoring equipment, and maintaining safety standards. A background in process environments and knowledge of health and safety regulations are essential. Shift work with a 4 on 4 off pattern is required.

Qualifications

• Experience in a process or power plant environment is essential.
• Good knowledge of Health and Safety regulations.
• Ability to work autonomously and prioritize tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation of the hydrogen production plant.
• Monitor systems and perform routine checks.
• Support maintenance with inspections and corrective tasks.

Skills

Attention to detail

Verbal communication

Written communication

Proactive and safety-conscious approach

Tools

SCADA

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Our client is looking for experienced Power Plant Operators to join the company as Assistant Operators. They are creating a cutting-edge clean energy power plant that will produce, store, and transport 1,800 tonnes per year of low carbon hydrogen. The site will help to drive the UK's hydrogen economy and accelerate progress towards national net zero ambitions to combat climate change. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a brand new venture.

You will support the safe and efficient operation of the Low Carbon Green Hydrogen production plant. Working under the guidance of the Senior Operator and Plant Manager, you will assist with monitoring plant equipment, performing routine checks, and ensuring day-to-day operations align with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Shift pattern: 4 on 4 off, 12 hour shifts, days and nights (18 days off after 8 cycles of 4 on 4 off; you will be given fewer holidays a year due to the amount of time off work)

Location: Near Sutton on Trent

Salary: £35,000

This role would suit someone with a previous job title such as; Power Plant Worker / Power Station Operative / SCADA Operator / Control Room Operative / Energy Station Operative / Energy Plant Operator / Powerplant Operative / Refinery Operative / Refinery Operator / Production Operative / Plant Worker / Process Plant Operator / similar

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Shift Team Leader, your duties will include:

• Assist in the safe and reliable operation of the hydrogen production plant.
• Monitor and operate hydrogen systems and equipment via the control system.
• Perform routine plant checks and log equipment condition, escalating issues when necessary.
• Follow safe operating procedures (SOPs) at all times and support with the development and review of SOPs and Work Instructions.
• Assist in connecting and disconnecting hydrogen storage vessels and safely loading/unloading hydrogen cylinder packs from delivery vehicles.
• Transfer and handle gas cylinders safely on-site in accordance with SOPs and manual handling procedures.
• Support the maintenance team with inspections, corrective tasks, and OEM-specified procedures as trained.
• Perform basic inspections and leak tests on hydrogen storage assets under supervision.
• Participate in water quality monitoring and treatment tasks as required.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organised plant environment at all times.
• Monitor and report plant consumable stock levels.
• Maintain accurate operational records and assist in generating performance reports, tracking KPIs, and contributing to improvement initiatives.
• Analyse production data to identify trends, inform decisions, and improve efficiency.
• Ensure full compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
• Conduct or support risk assessments and safety training; report unsafe conditions and stop operations if required.
• Collaborate with other departments to support innovation, continuous improvement, and best practice sharing.
• Work flexibly as part of a shift team, providing cover and support when needed.

Requirements

• Experience of working in a process or power plant environment
• A good knowledge of Health and Safety regulations in a working plant environment
• Experience of working with SCADA is a distinct advantage
• Ability to work within a control room and plant environment
• High attention to detail
• Ability to hold accountability for yourself and the team
• Ability to self-prioritise and work autonomously, accurately, and speedily when required
• A proactive and safety-conscious approach
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Full driving licence with own transport

Desirable

• Proficient with Microsoft Office packages, including Word and Excel
• Experience of working in a chemical plant environment
• Experience of projects incorporating pressurised flammable gas, electrical and control systems and civil engineering/groundworks
• Experience of driving a counter balance FLT would be an advantage, up to date licence preferred
• Confident at reporting and analysing information