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Aaron Rayner

Senior Recruitment Partner at Astute People Ltd
4.72
from 124 reviews
85% highly recommended

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Jobs
Head of Engineering
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnering with an established business who own and operate an impressive portfolio of anaerobic digestion plants. They are looking for a Head of Engineering to lead all engineering and technical aspects of their food waste AD operations. The ideal candidate will be located within Lincolnshire or the Cambridge area. The strategically important Head of Engineering role comes with a very competitive salary, car allowance and excellent benefits package. If you’re an experienced Engineering Manager with a background in either anaerobic digestion, biogas or a similar processing environment, then submit your CV to apply today.                     Responsibilities and duties of the Head of Engineering role Reporting to the Chief People & Transformation Officer, you will:  
  • Develop and implement the overall engineering strategy for current operations and future AD plant developments
  • Provide technical leadership to mechanical, electrical, civil, and process engineering teams.
  • Align engineering efforts with company objectives on energy output, sustainability, and regulatory compliance
  • Assist Group Projects Manager in design and engineering of new AD plants and major retrofit or expansion projects.
  • Oversee front-end engineering design (FEED), detailed engineering, and commissioning phases.
  • Establish engineering standards, design specifications, and quality control procedures across all sites utilising engineering software system, timely and with accuracy
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and industry regulations (e.g., ATEX, DSEAR, UK EA permitting, etc.).
  • Prepare and manage engineering budgets for capital projects and long-term asset replacement plans.
  • Ensure cost-effective engineering design while maintaining technical performance and reliability
  • Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of engineers and field engineers
  • Other duties as required
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Degree in Mechanical, Process, Chemical, or Environmental Engineering (Master’s preferred).
  • Chartered Engineer status (CEng) or equivalent is desirable.
  • IOSH/NEBOSH certificate
  • Full UK Driving Licence
  Personal skills   The Head of Engineering role would suit someone who has:  
  • 5+ years’ engineering experience, including at least 2 years in anaerobic digestion, biogas, wastewater treatment, or a related field.
  • Proven experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Deep understanding of AD process design, CHP systems, gas upgrading, feedstock pre-treatment, and digestate handling.
  • Strong knowledge of industry codes, safety standards (ATEX/DSEAR), and environmental compliance requirements
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics and blueprints
  • Experience of use of industry specific software (AutoCAD, Scada, Shire)
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to explain technical information clearly to stakeholders
  Salary and benefits of the Head of Engineering role  
  • A competitive salary depending on experience
  • Car allowance or company car
  • Private Medical
  • Additional benefits discussed at interview
  • The chance to join an established business within the biogas sector
  INDREN  

Project Manager - Anaerobic Digestion
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Project Manager – Anaerobic Digestion Oxfordshire – Hybrid working £60,000 - £75,000 DOE + excellent benefits     Introduction Astute are working with a company who design, build and operate anaerobic digestion facilities in the UK and rest of the world. Due to company growth, they are currently seeking a Project Manager to join their team and support with up and coming projects.                     Roles & Responsibilities As the Project Manager, you will be responsible for:
  • Developing project execution plan during bid phase, including: schedule, support estimate development, executing and contracting strategies
  • Dealing with all stages from design through to commissioning
  • Maximizing project efficiency and profitability
  • Manage to Project Budget, forecast, managing variations and changes
  • Ensuring all health, safety, quality and environmental procedures are integrated into the clients activities
  • Provide a key technical focal point for all engineering and technical clarifications
  • Maintaining all contract administration to ensure clarity on project costs, schedule and quality
  • Other duties as required
      Skills & Qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:
  • A degree in Engineering, or equivalent qualification with proven experience of delivering similar projects
  • Full understanding of the design, installation and project management of process plants (training can be given on the clients process)
  • Proven experience of managing engineering projects
  • Health, Safety and environmental leadership
  • Able to give presentations to senior managers, clients and other external bodies
  • Understanding of waste and renewable energy is an advantage
      Salary & Package What’s on offer for this exciting role:
  • Competitive salary of £60,000 to £75,000 depending on experience
  • Bonus scheme
  • Pension scheme
  • Other benefits will be discussed
    To apply for this opportunity simply send a copy of your up-to-date CV and covering letter to [email protected] or call 07441390252 to speak to Aaron Rayner who can tell you more.     INDREN

Junior Biogas Project Manager
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnered with an established anaerobic digestion business who specialise in design and build, optimisation and servicing. They are looking for an experienced Junior Biogas Project Manager to support with various projects across new and existing sites. The Junior Project Manager role comes with a competitive salary (depending on experience), excellent benefits package and flexible working. If you you’re organised, have at least one to two years practical experience and have exposure to the anaerobic digestion sector, then submit your CV to apply today. **Please note, that there are note that there are currently no sponsorship opportunities available at this time**                     Responsibilities and duties of the Junior Biogas Project Manager role Reporting to the Operations Manager you will:  
  • Help to manage multiple projects (electrical, mechanical and civil)
  • Assisting with monitoring project progress, creating reports which will be used to monitor the progress
  • Plan, define and manage the deliverable resource requirements for each client project.
  • Work on developments for existing clients
  • Liaise with clients, subcontractors and stakeholders
  • Support with procurement, budgeting, financial and client reporting
  • Contribute to company objectives including quality, health and safety, and environmental objectives.
  • Other duties as required
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • A relevant Engineering degree such as Mechanical, Electrical or Chemical Engineering
  • Full UK Driving Licence
  Personal skills   The Junior Biogas Project Engineer role would suit someone who is:  
  • At least one to two years practical experience working in project management
  • Experience or a good understanding of anaerobic digestion or a similar processing environment
  • Proficient in Microsoft package
  • Well organised and proactive
  • Happy to travel to sites across the UK
  • Hands on and willing to learn additional skills
  Salary and benefits of the Junior Biogas Project Manager role  
  • Competitive salary depending on experience
  • Excellent benefits package
  • Training and growth opportunities
  • The chance to join an established business in the renewable energy sector
 INDREN  

Biogas Service Technician
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewbles Team is partnering with a key business and influential player in the biogas sector. Together we are looking to recruit a Biogas Service Technician for their renewable energy plant in Aberdeenshire. The Biogas Service Technician role comes with a competitive salary and excellent benefits package. If you’re an experience Technician and are looking to join an established business within the anaerobic digestion sector, then submit your CV to apply today.                     Responsibilities and duties of the Biogas Service Technician role Reporting to the Plant Manager you will:  
  • Completing Planned Maintenance tasks and recording of corrective actions on the computer-based Maintenance system
  • Ensuring that time keeping and punctuality is maintained at an acceptable level.
  • Coordination of breakdowns ensuring quickest possible response and rectification
  • Scheduling and organisation of maintenance and improvement works and liaising with suppliers to source critical parts
  • Maintaining Asset database and keeping up to date
  • Ensure all breakdowns are recorded along with the time and type
  • Ensure stock levels are maintained to a reasonable economic level, ensuring common failure parts are available by identifying parts required and upcoming issues are identified to the Lead Engineer
  • Supervise contractors ensuring safe systems of work are followed - approve RAMS
  • Responsible for Pump repairs / refurbishment and any new installations
  • Completion of timely, accurate paperwork
  • Assistance with project work across additional sites within the portfolio when required
  • Other duties as required
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Relevant Engineering qualification (Electrical, Mechanical)
  • IOSH desirable
  • Full UK Driving Licence
  Personal skills   The Biogas Service Technician role would suit someone who has:  
  • A minimum of 2-3 years hands on experience working in anaerobic digestion or a similar processing environment
  • Working knowledge of pneumatics, pumps, heating systems, hydraulic systems and other ancillary equipment
  • Experienced in using Maintenance Management System
  • Working at heights
  • Computer literate
  • Motivated self-starter
  Salary and benefits of the role  
  • Competitive salary depending on experience
  • Excellent benefits package
  • The chance to join and established business within the renewable energy sector
 INDREN  

Assistant Plant Manager - Biogas
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnering exclusively with a key business and influential player in the UK Anaerobic Digestion market. The company are seeking an experienced Assistant Plant Manager to join them. You will be joining a plant at the latter stages of a significant upgrade and expansion. The Assistant Plant Manager role comes with an excellent package which can be discussed upon application. If you’re wanting to work for a key player in the UK biogas sector and be a part of this best in class, then please submit your CV to apply today.                     Responsibilities and duties of the Assistant Plant Manager role Reporting to the Plant Manager you will:  
  • Assist the Plant Manager in all aspects of site operation. Act as deputy during their absence and help manage daily processing of feedstock into biogas
  • Supervise and mentor operational staff. Promote a high-performance culture through effective leadership, coaching, and accountability.
  • Champion EHS policies across the site. Conduct regular walk-arounds, lead safety initiatives, and ensure strict adherence to all HSE and regulatory requirements
  • Use SCADA systems to monitor plant operations. Analyse data trends and recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency and output.
  • Communicate with external bodies including the Environment Agency and Ofgem. Ensure ongoing compliance with all licensing and statutory obligations.
  • Coordinate routine maintenance and emergency repairs. Liaise with contractors and ensure minimal downtime of operations
  • Maintain accurate records of operational data, incidents, and maintenance. Prepare and present reports for internal and external stakeholders
  • Other duties as required
Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Higher-level qualification in engineering, environmental science, or a related discipline (preferred).
  • NEBOSH or equivalent health & safety qualification (preferred)
  • WAMITAB Certificate of Technical Competence (COTC) in AD or related field (desired)
  • Full UK Driving Licence (Essential)
Personal skills   The Assistant Plant Manager role would suit someone who has:  
  • A minimum 2 years’ experience working at a supervisory/managerial level
  • Experience working in biogas or a similar processing environment
  • Strong leadership, motivation, and team development skills
  • Experience carrying out first line maintenance
Salary and benefits of the Assistant Plant Manager role  
  • Competitive salary (DOE) depending on experience
  • Excellent benefits package
  • The chance to join an expanding business within the renewable energy sector
  INDREN  

Biogas Maintenance Technician
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnered with an established anaerobic digestion business who are looking to recruit a Mechanical Maintenance Technician for their site just north of Glasgow. The site is currently benefiting from a substantial upgrade. The Mechanical Maintenance Technician role comes with a salary of up to £41,000, overtime and company benefits. If you’re an experienced Maintenance Technician and are looking to work for an established and growing business, then submit your CV to apply today.                     Responsibilities and duties of the Maintenance Technician role Reporting to the Engineering Manager you will:  
  • Carrying out front line maintenance, such as greasing, unblocking pumps and oil changes.
  • Carrying out day to day preventative maintenance.
  • Responding to breakdowns with extensive fault finding (both electrical and mechanical) using SCADA systems to aid fault finding.
  • Liaise with operations teams and support with operations when required.
  • Collect and maintain documentation to meet safety, quality, compliance and legislation.
  • Assume other responsibilities from time to time in order to support objectives and personal career development.
  • Be willing to form part of a call out rota.
  • Be willing work overtime or shifts as required.
  • Other duties as required
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Minimum served in a mechanical apprenticeship, or a recognised Engineering qualification  
  • Full UK driving licence
  Personal skills   The Maintenance Technician role would suit someone who is:  
  • Experience working in Anaerobic Digestion or a similar processing environment such as EFW, Biomass, water treatment.
  • Experience carrying out first line maintenance on process plant such as pumps & conveyors is an advantage.
  • Ability to read P&ID’s.
  • Experienced in fault finding techniques and continuous improvement methodologies
  • Knowledge of SCADA/DCS systems
  • Ability to analyse data, report findings and recommend improvement actions.
  • An excellent attitude and work ethic
  • Proficient in Microsoft word excel etc
  Salary and benefits of the Maintenance Technician role  
  • Salary of up to £41,000
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Company benefits package
  • The chance to join an established business within the renewable energy sector
INDREN    

Biogas Sales Manager
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnering with a leading engineering solutions provider within the biogas and wider renewable energy sector, known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and professional development, to recruit a Sales Manager covering East Midlands and Yorkshire. The strategically significant Sales Manager role offers a salary between £50,000-£60,000 including, commission, company car, private healthcare and pension. If you’re a Sales Manager looking to join an organisation that places integrity, technical excellence, and people at the heart of its work, submit your CV today. Responsibilities and duties of the Sales Manager role Reporting to the Biogas Sector Sales Lead, you will:
  • Develop and manage long-term relationships with new and existing customers across Scotland and the North of England.
  • Lead sales activity for the full product portfolio within the biogas market, including equipment for feed systems, pumping, maceration, and separation.
  • Act as a trusted technical advisor to customers, ensuring solutions are well-matched to operational and commercial needs.
  • Collaborate closely with the wider biogas sales team to coordinate strategy, share market intelligence and support joint initiatives.
  • Maintain oversight of regional sales activity, covering new plant development, retrofit projects and aftermarket opportunities.
  • Identify, pursue, and convert new business opportunities with plant operators, developers, consultants and EPC partners.
Professional qualifications We are looking for someone with:
  • Proven technical sales experience in renewables, biogas or the wider energy sector
  • Strong understanding of pumps, feedstock systems and AD process equipment
  • Solid knowledge of biogas policy, regulation, incentives and market trends
  • Strong commercial awareness and negotiation ability
  • Credibility when engaging with operators, developers, consultants and industry bodies
  • A well-established biogas network (ideal but not essential)
  • A degree in Engineering, Business or similar (preferred, not required)
Personal skills The Sales Manager role would suit someone who is:
  • Confident engaging with technical and commercial stakeholders.
  • Able to explain complex technical solutions clearly and with authority.
  • Results-driven, self-motivated and proactive in identifying opportunities.
  • Skilled in developing trust, building rapport and creating long-term partnerships.
  • Collaborative and able to work effectively as part of a wider sales and engineering team.
Salary and benefits of the Sales Manager – Biogas role
  • £50,000- £60,000
  • Commission structure
  • Company vehicle
  • Private medical scheme
  • Enhanced employer pension contributions
  • Flexible working arrangements

Regional Biogas Compliance Officer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewable Energy team is partnering with a UK leading business in anaerobic digestion that provides cost-effective, low carbon, food and organic waste management. We are looking to recruit a Regional Compliance Officer to support with our clients’ sites located in Wales, the Midlands, the Southeast and West Region.   The vital Regional Compliance Officer role comes with a salary of up to £45,000 (depending on experience), a discretionary bonus, pension, life assurance, ongoing training, development and progression.   If you’re an experienced Compliance Officer and are looking to work for one of the largest Biogas operators in the UK and are a cutting edge, bold and inspirational business, then upload your CV to apply today. .                     Responsibilities and duties of the Regional Compliance Officer role Reporting to the Environmental Permitting Manager you will:  
  • Leading in external inspections/visits from regulatory bodies. (EA/HSE/APHA/PLA)
  • Carrying out integrated management system audits (IMS, i.e. ISO and PAS 110 re-certification audits).
  • Drafting responses and identifying pragmatic and cost-effective solutions.
  • Completing annual reports, pollution inventory and improvement condition returns for the sites as required by the permits.
  • Completing and submitting permit variations and renewals to the EA and APHA.
  • The development and review of relevant risk assessments, SOPs, training and driving safety improvements throughout the business.
  • Other duties as require
Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) in Health & Safety and/or Environmental Management qualification (IEMA, CEnv)
  • Full UK Driving License
Personal skills   The Regional Compliance Officer role would suit someone who is:  
  • Experience with ISO and NEBOSH standards.
  • Previous experience working in an environmental compliance or health and safety role.
  • A passion for the environment and being involved in its upkeep.
  • The willingness to travel between sites multiple times per week.
Salary and benefits of the Regional Compliance Officer role  
  • Salary of up to £45,000
  • Car allowance
  • Pension scheme
  • Healthcare
  • Life assurance
  • The chance to join a leader in the renewable energy sector
 INDREN