VPI
Graduate Operations Technician in Damhead Creek

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Position: Graduate Operations Technician – Shift Position
Location: Damhead Creek, Kingsnorth, Hoo, Rochester, Kent ME3 9TX
Type of Contract: Graduate, 2 year contract
About VPI
VPI is a leading power generating asset owner, backed by the Vitol Group. VPI currently operates approximately 3.5GW of thermal generating assets in the United Kingdom (where it is the sponsor of one of the leading carbon capture projects in Europe), is the largest operator of battery energy storage system (BESS) assets in Ireland and has recently entered the German market via the acquisition of over 1GW of mature BESS pipeline. VPI’s core mission is to facilitate the energy transition via the provision of reliable dispatchable power which allows for the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources.
What is the role?
The two-year graduate programme will provide the candidate with a thorough knowledge of all of aspects of all production related activities at the station. The following will be included:
- Carrying out operational routines
- Familiarisation with the Safety Rules process
- 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.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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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 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 system 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 £50 annual Christmas gift via Perkbox rewards.
- Site Gym.
- Membership of sites Sports and Social club.
- Weekly site fruit delivery.
- Free parking at site.
- Free EV charging at sites.


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Who is suitable to apply?
- Educated to a Degree standard in Mechanical, Aeronautical, C&I, Electrical and Engineering.
- Willingness to work a shift pattern.
- Live within a 1-hour commute from the power station site without relocation.
- The Full Right to work in the UK.
- A valid Driving License and access to a car.
- Happy to be on site 5 days a week.
- 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.
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