Assistant Power Plant Operator

• Join one of Australia's largest power stations in a critical role 
• Build your future with clear career pathways and ongoing training 
• Lake Macquarie based

Join a team that's All Kinds of Useful

At Origin, being useful is more than a tagline - it’s how we approach work every day. As a collective, we’re a team that thrives on finding better ways, working together, and owning our impact. From powering homes to delivering award-winning internet and helping to lead Australia’s energy transition. If you’re driven by purpose and excited to be part of something bigger, we’d love to have you on the journey.

About the role: 

The Assistant Power Plant Operator (APPO) is a critical frontline role responsible for maintaining the safety, reliability, and commercial predictability of Eraring Power Station. Operating within a high-performing 24/7 shift structure, you will execute precise plant operations, safety-critical testing, rigorous isolations, and level-one maintenance across the main plant, auxiliary equipment, and fuel/ash handling systems.

Why this role matters?

• Asset Operation: Assist in safely operating and monitoring boilers, turbines, generators, high-voltage equipment, and auxiliary systems.
• Data & Compliance Discipline: Conduct comprehensive 12-hour and 48-hour shift rounds utilizing advanced mobility devices to log, track, and ensure maximum plant availability.
• Risk Assurance: Manage and issue Permits to Work, execute flawless isolations and de-isolations, perform routine testing on safety-critical devices, and respond decisively to plant emergencies.
• Defect Resolution: Proactively identify process faults, drive swift resolution, and collaborate with Maintenance and Engineering to optimize plant efficiency.

What will you bring?

• Absolute alignment with Origin’s safety culture and a proactive commitment to a "Fair and Just" operational environment.
• Proven experience operating a large coal-fired utility, chemical plant, refinery, or equivalent heavy industrial major hazard facility.
• Exceptional technical fault-finding capabilities and an analytical asset-protection mindset.
• Strong understanding of environmental compliance parameters, including emissions and discharge boundaries.
• Direct experience operating under strict Enterprise Agreement structures and a willingness to work rotating 24/7 shifts.

So, why join us?

• Industry-leading competitive remuneration, robust shift allowances, and structured leave planning.
• A defined, merit-based career development pathway to support your progression into senior operational leadership roles.
• The opportunity to anchor operations at one of Australia’s largest power generation sites during a critical transition era.
• 21 weeks of paid parental leave for primary carers with flexible return options.
• Thrive in a culture of personal and professional growth.
• Purchase up to four additional weeks of leave annually.
• Engage in opportunities through the Origin Foundation to support your community.
• Powering your career with unbeatable perks - Get discounted electricity, gas, and internet as an Origin employee.
• Explore unique and cost-effective employee EV Car subscriptions.

For more information, please contact Kelly Hansen - , quote Requisition ID 90056 or apply now.

Origin - Where good change happens

At Origin, we’re powered by people who believe in creating change.

We are committed to fostering a diverse, gender equitable workforce, where everyone is welcome, and all applications are evaluated on merit and potential. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, people living with disabilities, culturally diverse people, any stage in life, people with intersex variations and people within LGBTQ+ communities, including trans and gender diverse. 
 

Enjoy a challenging career in an exciting industry where you can grow and explore your potential. If you think you have transferable skills, an appetite to learn and would be a great fit, we’d love to hear from you. 

Here's a little about us: https://www.originenergy.com.au/about/careers/

Background checks may be required to determine your suitability for this position as part of the recruitment process and during your employment. These checks may include police checks, AusCheck, medical assessment and/or drug and alcohol testing.

Please note unsolicited CVs from agencies will not be accepted.

Origin recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.