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Aaron Rayner

Senior Recruitment Partner at Astute People Ltd
4.72
from 125 reviews
86% highly recommended

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Jobs
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

Electrical Control and Instrumentation Technician
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is with a working with a well-established energy from waste business who are fully committed to contributing to a more sustainable world. They are looking to recruit an experienced EC&I Technician for their Biogas plant in South London The EC&I Technician will play an important part in helping to ensure the plant continues to perform to a high standard and support the business with its growth and investment in sustainability. The role comes with a competitive salary, pension and company benefits. If you’re an experienced EC&I Technician and are looking to work for an innovative business with the renewables sector, upload your CV today.                 Responsibilities and duties of the EC&I Technician role Reporting to the Engineering Supervisor, you will:  
  • Performing routine maintenance and calibration of plant instrumentation, including gas analysis.
  • PLC and SCADA system Maintenance.
  • Assist the Project team with commissioning of the instrumentation and control systems on new plants and upgrades.
  • Provide hands-on support on all EC&I needs, including shutdowns, planned and unplanned maintenance, incidents, improvements, and modifications.
  • Assist with modifications of plc-based control systems and instrumentation on existing plants, ensuring all documentation is accurate and properly recorded.
  • Actively promote safety schemes, including safety reviews, investigations, audits, and reporting including HAZOP, LOPA, DSEAR, RBI and functional safety compliance.
  • Work alongside maintenance technicians to support in diagnosing faults and suggesting/ assisting in equipment upgrades.
  • Supervising and directing onsite contracts when necessary.
  • Shift work, overtime, and on-call duties may be required
  • Other duties as required.
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • NVQ Level 3 / City & Guilds / HNC / HND in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation or Control Systems (or equivalent)
  • Valid electrical certification (e.g., 17th/18th Edition for UK roles)
  • Full UK Driving Licence
  Personal skills   The EC&I Technician role would suit someone who has:  
  • Extensive knowledge and hands on experience maintaining controls and instrumentation systems including DCS, SCADA and PLCs as well as instruments (pressure, temperature, flow etc)
  • 4+ years of experience in a similar EC&I technician role.
  • Experience in heavy industry, power generation, oil & gas, water treatment, or similar fields preferred.
  • Proven ability to read and interpret electrical and instrumentation drawings and schematics.
  • Working in confined spaces, at heights, or in hazardous environments
  Salary and benefits of the EC&I Technician role  
  • Competitive salary DOE (depending on experience)
  • Pension
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Other benefits to be discussed
  INDREN  

Commercial/General Manager - Biogas/food waste
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Power Team is Partnered with an established renewable energy business in the Northeast of England. They are looking to recruit an experienced Commercial/General Manager for their food waste de-packaging and processing site near Middlesborough. The Commercial/General Manager role comes with a competitive salary, bonus, company pension and additional benefits package. If you have commercial experience, along with experience of plant operations within the food waste or biogas sector, then submit your CV to apply today.                     Responsibilities and duties of the Commercial/General Manager role Reporting to the Group Operations Director, you will:  
  • Identify and secure new commercial contracts for waste processing.
  • Strengthen existing client relationships and expand service offerings.
  • Manage the sale of end products to third parties.
  • Liaise with farmers, land agents, and other local stakeholders to maintain positive site relationships
  • Maintain strong relationships with logistics partners to ensure efficient, cost-effective material transport
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations at all times.
  • Lead the EA permit variation process for site expansion and maintain readiness for audits and inspections.
  • Identify and deliver equipment upgrades and site improvements to support future expansion.
  • Manage daily operations at the de-packaging site to deliver consistent throughput, minimal downtime, and high-quality output.
  • Provide operational assistance to the client’s anaerobic digestion site to help it achieve production and performance goals.
  • Other duties as required
  Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • A degree or equivalent environmental science/engineering or similar
  • IOSH or NEBOSH
  • Full UK driving licence
  Personal skills   The Commercial/General Manager role would suit someone who is:  
  • Commercially astute and able to develop supplier/client relationships and negotiate contracts
  • Experience in anaerobic digestion, food waste, waste processing or industrial production
  • Experience in feedstock procurement, contract management or logistics
  • Strong understanding of compliance, HSE and environmental regulations
  • Proven site or operations management experience
  • A drive to reduce landfill and create renewable energy from food waste
  Salary and benefits of the Commercial/General Manager role  
  • Competitive salary depending on experience
  • Company pension
  • Bonus
  • The opportunity to join an established business within 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

Biogas Plant Manager
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables Team is partnering with a leading bioenergy power its fleet of gas powered vehicles through a state of the art biogas production facility to recruit a Plant Manager for its Lisburn, Northern Ireland site. This strategically important Plant Manager role comes with a salary of £60,000-£75,000, pension scheme, additional annual leave, life assurance, certified training, and long-term career progression. If you’re a Plant Manager with experience in production, processing, or green energy environments and are looking to join an organisation that prioritises safety, compliance, operational excellence, and sustainability, then submit your CV to apply today. Responsibilities and duties of the Plant Manager role Reporting to the Group Directorship, you will:
  • Lead and manage day-to-day operations of an anaerobic digestion and biomethane/CNG production facility
  • Ensure full compliance with health & safety, environmental permits, and regulatory requirements
  • Manage and develop site teams, contractors, and technical personnel to meet operational and performance targets
  • Oversee plant maintenance, reliability, and asset performance, ensuring minimal downtime
  • Manage production schedules to meet demand and integrate with wider transport and logistics operations
  • Ensure emissions monitoring, waste management, and digestate quality testing meet PAS110 and regulatory standards
  • Lead audits, inspections, and corrective actions to maintain continuous compliance
  • Support future projects, plant upgrades, and strategic business growth initiatives
  • Maintain accurate operational records, KPI reporting, trend analysis, and P&L accountability
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to maximise efficiency, productivity, and gas output
Professional qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:
  • Experience in plant or operations management within production, processing, or green energy environments
  • Strong knowledge of health & safety
  • Proven ability to manage KPIs, budgets, P&L, CAPEX, and operational reporting
  • Experience with CMMS, data analysis, and performance monitoring tools
Personal skills The Plant Operations Manager role would suit someone who is:
  • A confident and hands-on leader with the ability to motivate and develop teams
  • Highly organised with strong time management and decision-making skills
  • Data-driven, analytical, and comfortable presenting information to senior stakeholders
  • Proactive, forward-thinking, and focused on long-term operational improvement
  • Flexible in approach to working hours and operational demands
  • A strong communicator who can build effective relationships across the business
Salary and benefits of the Plant Operations Manager role
  • £60,000- £75,000
  • Matched pension contribution
  • Enhanced annual leave with service
  • Life assurance and death-in-service cover
  • Certified training and professional development
  • Clear career progression opportunities
  • Additional company benefits
INDREN  

Workshop Engineer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables team are exclusively partnering with Vogelsang, a leading specialist in pump and rotary equipment, delivering cutting-edge technology to clients across the Biogas, Water Treatment and Agricultural sectors, to recruit a Workshop Engineer for their site based in Crewe.   The Workshop Engineer role offers an excellent opportunity for a hands-on engineer to grow within the business, with a clear and structured pathway into a Field Service Engineer role.   If you’re a hands-on engineer and are looking to join a leader in the engineering sector, then submit your CV to apply today.     Responsibilities and duties of the Workshop Engineer role   Reporting to the Service Manager, you will:    
  • Carry out routine servicing, inspections, and planned maintenance of equipment. Including Positive Displacement Pumps, Macerators and Grinders.
  • Diagnose and repair mechanical, hydraulic and electrical faults, testing machinery to ensure it meets performance and safety standards.
  • Support workshop operations through machine rebuilds, overhauls and preparation of equipment for dispatch.
  • Provide secondary technical support to Field Service Engineers when required.
  • Accurately complete service reports, job sheets and technical documentation in a timely manner.
  • Work collaboratively within a professional engineering team to meet operational targets and customer requirements.
    Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:    
  • Proven experience in a hands-on mechanical role such as Maintenance Engineer, or similar engineering role.
  • Strong mechanical engineering knowledge, with experience of rotary equipment being highly advantageous.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering diagrams and technical drawings.
  • Full UK driving licence.
  • Forklift and/or telehandler licence advantageous.  
  Personal skills     The Workshop Engineer role would suit someone who is:    
  • Practical and methodical approach to fault finding, repair and maintenance.
  • Enthusiastic and committed to continued professional development.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
    Salary and benefits of the Workshop Engineer role    
  • Competitive salary (dependant on experience).
  • Company van and tools provided.
  • Overtime opportunities with enhanced rates.
  • 22 days annual leave, increasing with length of service to 25 days.
  • Company benefits to be discussed.
  • Clear and structured opportunity for development to Field Service Engineer.
  • Opportunity to work for a leading manufacturer supporting critical infrastructure across multiple industries.
    INDREN

Field Service Engineer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Renewables team are exclusively partnering with Vogelsang, a leading specialist in pump and rotary equipment, delivering cutting-edge technology to clients across the Biogas, Water Treatment and Agricultural sectors, to recruit a Field Service Engineer to join its UK Service Team based in Crewe.   The Field Service Engineer role combines workshop and nationwide field work, supporting UK customers with repair, maintenance, and equipment commissioning. Vehicle and overtime opportunities included, along with excellent training and professional development prospects.   If you’re a Field Service Engineer and are looking to join a leader in the engineering sector, then submit your CV to apply today.     Responsibilities and duties of the Field Service Engineer role   Reporting to the Service Manager you will:    
  • Provide UK-wide on-site support, repairing, maintaining, and servicing Vogelsang equipment at customer locations, including positive displacement pumps, macerators, and grinders.
  • Carry out routine inspections, servicing, and planned preventative maintenance both in the workshop and on customer sites.
  • Diagnose mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical faults, undertake repairs, and test machinery to ensure performance and safety standards are met.
  • Commission equipment and assist with installations at customer sites as required.
  • Support field service engineers and customers with technical expertise when needed.
  • Assist with workshop activities, including machine rebuilds, overhauls, and preparation of equipment for dispatch.
  • Accurately complete service reports, job sheets, and technical documentation within required timescales.
  • Collaborate effectively within the engineering team to meet operational targets and customer requirements.
    Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:    
  • Relevant engineering qualifications, i.e. BTEC, NVQ, HNC, HND or equivalent.
  • Proven experience in a Field Engineer role or similar hands-on mechanical engineering position.
  • Strong mechanical engineering knowledge, with experience of pump systems or rotary equipment highly advantageous.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and engineering diagrams.
  • Full UK driving licence is essential; forklift and/or telehandler licence advantageous.
    Personal skills     The Field Service Engineer role would suit someone who is:    
  • Practical and methodical approach to fault finding, repair and maintenance.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Flexible to travel nationwide with some overnight stays.
    Salary and benefits of the Field Service Engineer role    
  • Competitive salary (DOE).
  • Company vehicle and fuel card.
  • Overtime with enhanced rates.
  • 22 days annual leave, increasing with length of service to 25 days.
  • Continuous professional development opportunities within a market-leading engineering organisation.
    INDREN