Find out about the incredible opportunities available at ONRG – a local business with global reach that is enjoying rapid growth thanks to its strategy of investment, upskilling and attracting new talent.
It is no secret that one of the most pressing challenges facing the energy industry is the shortage of skilled, qualified workers needed to meet the ambitious targets of the energy transition.
But one local company is not only addressing the labour shortage – it is proving that a career in the energy sector can be satisfying, impactful and inspiring.
ONRG is an engineering services provider for high-voltage (HV) networks, substations and transmission systems to the offshore and onshore energy industry.
From its headquarters in Buxhall, Suffolk, ONRG offers consultancy, technical project management and electrical safety training via strategic partnerships with organisations and projects such as ScottishPower Renewables’ East Anglia ONE and East Anglia THREE wind farms.
The company has established itself as a specialist in managing HV network assets for offshore wind farms and related energy infrastructure. It provides electrical engineering, fault finding and asset maintenance and operations for blue-chip clients in the UK, USA and Taiwan.
READ MORE: How the ONRG PATH training package boosts the energy sector
Following an extraordinary period of growth and success, ONRG is developing its workforce via external recruitment and internal promotions.
A recent LinkedIn campaign showcased the breadth of employment opportunities at ONRG. The success of the campaign is proven by the fact that the business found candidates to train as Senior Authorised Persons (SAPs), who are available 24/7 for outage assistance, project management and condition monitoring.
Project HV specialist Jason Spurgeon is responsible for the operation and safety of all personnel working on or near HV equipment.
“Working for ONRG has given me the platform for growth and skill development in a range of areas,” he said. “Working alongside highly skilled and experienced individuals has allowed me to enhance my technical competencies.
“ONRG has given me the invaluable opportunity for continued development by giving me a pathway for further training in becoming authorised as an SAP.”
READ MORE: How ONRG delivers knowledge and experience to energy sector
The company’s excellent reputation is built on its commitment to maintaining the highest standards in a safe, compliant and inclusive workplace. ONRG has established a culture of excellence which, Jason says, empowers all its employees to accomplish their career goals.
“Over the next five years, I want to continue developing my technical knowledge in electrical systems and becoming more familiar with various aspects of the renewables sectors such as construction, installation, operation, and maintenance,” he said.
“I know ONRG will give me the support and guidance in achieving this, allowing me to excel in my current role and any role in the future.”
But ONRG is not just looking for HV specialists and SAPs. It is also seeking anyone with transferable skills who is passionate about pursuing a career in renewables.
Phoebe Patterson joined ONRG three months ago. She said that her role as learning technology and systems manager offers fantastic opportunities for progression.
“Previous roles I had before I joined ONRG have involved repetitive tasks, but during my interview, Chris and Mark made it very clear that this job is really varied, which is great,” Phoebe said.
“I’m not pigeonholed – there’s opportunities to help out with everything from in-person training, digitalisation, eLearning, social media, branding, graphic design and more. Every day is different!”
ONRG recently partnered with University Technical College Norfolk to support T-level industry placements for young students, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to develop the talent of tomorrow and the sustainability of the future energy sector.
A career at ONRG also offers opportunities to travel the globe. Asset integrity manager Mark Kimber was recently dispatched on a special assignment in Taiwan to onboard and upskill SAPs.
“Without upskilling people, we wouldn’t have a business that is going to meet the demands of the emerging energy market effectively,” said Mark. “The future of growth for this company is about growing new talent into the industry, and we have the tools to develop their skills.
“Our company ethos is to make sure that we look after people. We don’t just place people on projects. We give them the tools they need and make sure they’re at the right standard.
"It’s about opening the door.”
Acquisition offers access to untapped markets
In February, ONRG was acquired by global offshore solutions business OEG Energy Group.
The high-voltage services provider will join the OEG Renewables (OEGR) division.
ONRG founder and managing director Chris Emmins said the acquisition demonstrates the rapid growth of the business and points towards a promising future supported by new investment.
“Joining the OEG group will allow ONRG to tap into OEG’s global network, broadening its service portfolio and unlocking the potential for combined solutions in uncharted markets,” he said.
“Both OEG Renewables and ONRG share the same values and commitment to achieving the highest possible standards of health and safety and to building lasting partnerships through the provision of client-focused, added-value solutions.”
ONRG’s growth is underpinned by several recent contract awards and expansions.
The business recently secured the East Anglia ONE Electrical Balance of Plant (EBoP) contract, as well as mobilising HV services, SAPs and control room staff at East Anglia THREE for ScottishPower Renewables.
It is also continuing to support the Changfang and Xidao Offshore Wind Project (CFXD), a 589MW capacity project being constructed off the west coast of Taiwan.
For more information, please visit onrg.co.uk
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