Engineers urged to think nuclear
There could be major opportunities for engineers in the nuclear industry, with the announcement of 10 possible sites for new stations in the UK. However, for the time being, it is in decommissioning where the opportunities are to be found.
Adam Spelman, head of the nuclear division of Scantec Personnel said that skills in demand included a wide range of engineers, skilled tradesmen and surveyors. Spelman noted: "Engineers need to understand that their skills are in demand in the nuclear sector and that real long term, well paid opportunities now exist in the nuclear industry. It is important to point out that the nuclear sector is willing to train up staff who have core skills."
If all the sites are used, it is estimated that up to 9000 jobs could be created to build each power station, plus up to another 1000 once they are up and running. If all the stations are constructed, they could be generating up to 25% of the UK's energy needs as compared to 13% today.
The sites are at Braystones, Sellafield and Kirksanton, in Cumbria, Heysham in Lancashire, Hartlepool, Co Durham, Sizewell in Suffolk, Bradwell in Essex, Hinkley Point in Somerset, Oldbury in Gloucestershire and Wylfa in Anglesey.
