PJD looks to future in search for the specialists

The PJD Group is looking for skilled workers and apprentices to help build and maintain power stations.

PJD Group, which is based in Castle Donington, Leicestershire, wants to fill the specialist engineering posts for recently secured contracts, as the Government looks to invest in new forms of power while modernising the UK’s existing power stations.

PJD’s search for extra staff follows a multi-million-pound investment which could be used to buy Yorkshire businesses.

PJD is looking for welders, platers, fitters, qualified engineers and apprentices.

In the energy industry, a shortage of welders means that those with the right skills, qualifications and experience in the sector can expect to earn as much as a salaried GP, according to PJD.

Chief executive David Hayle said: “There is a lot of growth in our market which means we need to employ more skilled workers. It is a simple question of supply and demand and we want to make sure that we have local labour ready and in place for the years ahead.”

Across the North of England, PJD has begun a recruitment process for 15 engineers. It has also made a commitment to take on 20 apprentices this year. The company aims to ensure that apprentices make up 10 per cent of the workforce in the coming years.

Power generation is a growth industry in the UK, and this year PJD is expected to tender for work in excess of £200m. Turnover for 2012 will be more than £45m, and total sales are expected to reach £100m in 2015.

PJD has major contracts at a number of power stations, including Fiddlers Ferry in Cheshire. Growth has been organic and through acquisition – in 2010 PJD merged with Grayton Engineering.