img
Permanent

Plant Manager - New Energy from Waste

Astute People
Irvine
money-bag Negotiable
Posted: 22 October 2026 (Today)
Closing date: 21 November 2026
Ref: 225755423

Astute''s Power Team is partnering with the developers of a major Waste-to-Energy power generation project in the UK. As part of the operational leadership structure for the facility, they are looking to recruit a Plant Manager to take responsibility for the safe, efficient and compliant operation of the site, located in Irvine, Scotland.

The new build facility, located in Irvine, North Ayrshire, when complete can produce -17MW of power through the incineration of -180,000 tonnes of waste per year. This project is expected to shortly enter commissioning phase and be operational in 2027.

This permanent role is site-based and offers a competitive salary plus bonus & private medical insurance.

If you''re an experienced Power Station Manager with experience in Waste to Energy or Solid Fueled Power Plants and want. to join a new-build plant, submit your CV to apply today.



Responsibilities of the Plant Manager

Reporting to the Project Director, you will:

  • Overall management of the Energy from Waste facility, ensuring safe, efficient and compliant operations
  • Leading and developing a team of operators, technicians and engineers
  • Ensuring the plant operates in compliance with environmental permits, legislation and company HSE procedures
  • Overseeing plant operations and maintenance across key systems including waste handling, boiler & combustion systems, steam turbine generator, flue gas treatment and balance of plant
  • Monitoring plant performance and KPIs including waste throughput, generation output and plant availability
  • Managing operational budgets and coordinating planned outages and maintenance activities
  • Liaising with regulators, grid operators and waste suppliers where required
  • Driving continuous improvement and optimisation of plant performance


Required qualifications and experience

To be considered, you must have:

  • 10-15 years'' experience within power generation or Energy from Waste facilities
  • At least 5 years'' experience in a senior leadership or plant management role
  • HNC / HND / ONC Engineering qualifications will also be considered with relevant experience
  • IOSH or NEBOSH would be advantageous
  • Strong knowledge of power plant operations, maintenance and asset management
  • Experience managing multidisciplinary engineering and operational teams
  • Excellent knowledge of UK health, safety and environmental legislation
  • Strong stakeholder management skills and experience working with regulators and external partners
  • A proactive approach to operational improvement and performance management






Desirable experience

It would be an advantage, but is not essential, to have:

  • Ideally qualified with a Bachelor''s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical Engineering (or equivalent)






Salary and benefits

  • Salary: Competitive
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Working pattern: Monday to Friday
  • Location: Irvine, Scotland
  • Benefits: Bonus, Private Medical and others

INDPOW
#LI-DG1

Astute People are acting as an employment agency in relation to this vacancy. We do not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and comply with all relevant UK legislation. We encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Astute is also committed to the government''s Disability Confident Employer initiative. We endeavour to get back to everyone, however, if you have not heard anything after 7 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Perform a fresh search...

  • Create your ideal job search criteria by
    completing our quick and simple form and
    receive daily job alerts tailored to you!

Jobs. Straight to your inbox!