Maintenance Intern

About ContourGlobal

ContourGlobal is a KKR-backed next-generation Independent Power Producer (IPP) operating across the United States, Latin America, Europe and Africa. The company manages a diversified portfolio of nearly 6 GW of renewable generation, flexible thermal power and battery energy storage assets, providing reliable, dispatchable power solutions that support the transition to a more electrified and sustainable future.

ContourGlobal is transforming into a predominantly renewable power platform through the decarbonization of its thermal fleet and the development of large-scale renewable energy and battery storage projects. Leveraging its in-house development, engineering and operational capabilities, the company currently has more than 2 GW of renewable and BESS projects under construction and approximately 15 GW in development.

Building on its advanced commercial and energy management capabilities, ContourGlobal partners with utilities, industrial customers and digital infrastructure operators to deliver tailored power solutions through long-term contracts, corporate PPAs and powered-land solutions that shorten time-to-market for data center developments. 

Job Summary

The Mechanical Technician Trainee is an entry-level position designed to develop the next generation of mechanical maintenance professionals. Under the direct supervision of the Maintenance Supervisor and the daily mentorship of an assigned Senior Mechanical Engineer, the Trainee will participate in hands-on maintenance activities across both the onshore Power Plant and the offshore Gas Extraction Facility (GEF) on Lake Kivu.

The Trainee will gain practical exposure to the operation, maintenance, and repair of heavy industrial equipment, including Wärtsilä W34SG gas engines, MWM TCG 2020V16 engines, CAT 3606 engines, Sinopec 4RSD compressors, and all auxiliary systems. The role emphasizes safety, technical skill development, and a strong work ethic, with the goal of progressing to a fully qualified Mechanical Technician within a defined timeframe (typically 18–24 months) upon successful completion of the training program and performance evaluations.

Core Values & Policy Compliance (Contourglobal & KivuWatt)

• Learn, understand, and strictly adhere to all Contourglobal (CG) Policies at the Power Plant, including:
• CG Essential Information & Company Values.
• Anti-Corruption and Supplier Code of Conduct.
• Obligations to local communities and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Observe strict information confidentiality obligations as per CG and KivuWatt Ltd policies.
• Maintain a professional demeanour, punctuality, and a positive attitude toward learning and teamwork.
• Understand and comply with the company's Code of Conduct and ethical standards.

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Compliance

• Understand and follow all HSE obligations with respect to Contourglobal Policies, Lenders, and local/regional legislation.
• Learn and strictly adhere to HSE procedures on-site, specifically:
• Permit To Work (PTW) and Job Safety & Environmental Analyses (JSEA).
• Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures.
• Safety rules, correct wearing of PPEs, site access control, and vehicle management.
• Participate in HSE site and work inspections (Level 1) under supervision.
• Learn emergency response protocols and act immediately and responsibly in case of fire, gas release, emergency alarms, or accidents, under the guidance of senior staff.
• Receive training on the specific risks of the Lake Kivu methane-rich environment and learn to use portable gas detectors correctly.
• Report all incidents, near-misses, and unsafe conditions immediately to the Maintenance Supervisor or assigned mentor.
• Successfully complete mandatory offshore induction and platform familiarization before being deployed to the GEF.

Technical Learning & Maintenance Support

• Observe and assist in scheduled and non-scheduled maintenance activities on 3x Wärtsilä W34SG 4-stroke gas engines, learning tasks such as Cylinder head removal and replacement; Piston ring and bearing inspections; Valve clearance adjustments.
• Observe and assist in maintenance on 3x MWM TCG 2020V16 and 1x MWM TCD 2020V16 gas engines.
• Learn the function and maintenance of fuel gas trains, turbochargers, and intercoolers.

• Observe and assist in maintenance activities on the 2x Sinopec 4RSD Compressors driven by CAT 3606 engines, learning Alignment checks (laser/dial); Compressor valve and packing replacements; Crosshead guide inspections.
• Gain exposure to the offshore extraction facility structures, coolers, chillers, pumps, and Hydraulic Power Units (HPU).
• Learn about gas pipeline systems, separators, and fire suppression systems (Inergen, FIFI).

• Assist in maintenance of common auxiliaries including Compressed air systems and Nitrogen generators; Process and utility pumps; Cranes and lifting equipment.
• Participate in facility general maintenance, including plumbing, basic welding, and scaffolding erection under supervision.
• Learn to use maintenance tools properly and maintain them to maximize their useful operating life.

• Perform basic mechanical tasks under close supervision (e.g., cleaning parts, changing filters, lubricating equipment, tightening bolts, assisting with rigging/slinging).
• Assist senior technicians in preparing tools, parts, and materials for maintenance activities.
• Support the warehouse team with basic inventory tasks and audits as required.
• Learn proper tool handling, care, storage, and inventory management.

• Assist in preparing maintenance logs and running records in a clear and concise manner.
• Learn to use the CMMS (cWorks) to review work orders, record parts usage, and update maintenance activities.
• Contribute to monthly reports by providing accurate data on tasks completed.
• Maintain a personal learning journal documenting new skills and knowledge acquired.

Continuous Learning & Development

• OEM Guidelines: Learn to read and understand Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) manuals and instructions for all equipment.
• Performance Analysis: Observe and learn how to analyze mechanical performance data and trends to identify issues.
• Participate in failure analyses (including 5 Whys analysis) under supervision to understand root causes and corrective actions.
• Participate in MoC reviews as an observer to understand the change management process.
• Actively participate in all internal and external training programs provided by the company.
• Follow a structured Learning & Development Plan developed jointly by the Maintenance Supervisor and assigned mentor, with regular progress reviews.

Performance Evaluation & Success Criteria

• The trainee will serve a probationary period of 3–6 months, during which performance and suitability for the role will be assessed.
• Formal performance reviews will be conducted at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Trainees:
• Successful completion of required training modules as assigned.
• Demonstrated improvement in technical skills and knowledge.
• Adherence to HSE procedures with zero safety violations.
• Punctuality, attendance, and reliability.
• Positive feedback from mentor and senior technicians.
• Accurate and timely completion of assigned tasks and documentation.

Buddy System / Mentor Assignment

• The trainee will be assigned a dedicated Senior Mechanical Engineer as a mentor for the duration of the traineeship.
• The mentor will provide daily guidance, on-the-job training, and regular feedback on performance.
• The trainee is expected to actively seek guidance, ask questions, and learn from the mentor's experience.

• Perform other activities as may be assigned by the Maintenance Supervisor or Senior Engineer from time to time.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Advanced Certificate or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Fitting & Machining, or a related trade from a recognized institution.
• This is an entry-level position; recent graduates with no experience are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate a strong mechanical aptitude and eagerness to learn.

• 0–2 years of experience in an industrial maintenance environment.
• Any internship or apprenticeship experience in power generation, oil & gas, marine, or heavy industry is an advantage.
• Basic workshop experience (e.g., using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments) is desirable.

Technical Skills (Basic):

• Ability to read and interpret basic technical drawings and manuals.
• Familiarity with common hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, hammers, grinders).
• Basic understanding of mechanical principles (pulleys, gears, bearings, lubrication).
• Basic computer literacy (Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Outlook).

Personal Skills & Competencies

• Genuine curiosity and a strong desire to develop mechanical skills and knowledge.
• A natural respect for safety rules and the ability to ask questions when unsure.
• Ability to work well within a team, take instruction, and support colleagues.
• Punctual, dependable, and takes pride in completing tasks to a high standard.
• Careful and meticulous when performing tasks and recording data.
• Capable of working in hot, noisy environments, handling heavy components, and working at heights.
• Good verbal and written communication skills in English (and local languages preferred).
• Ability to handle feedback constructively and persevere through challenging learning curves.

• Must pass a stringent medical examination for offshore work, including a swimming proficiency test and the ability to use life-saving appliances.
• Willingness to travel daily by boat to the GEF and remain on the platform for multi-day rotations during planned overhauls or emergencies.
• Capable of working inside compressor crankcases, engine sumps, and tight pipe racks under close supervision.
• May be required to work shifts (including nights and weekends) as part of the training program, depending on operational needs.

ContourGlobal provides equal employment opportunities and maintains a diverse workforce that reflects the rich environment of our society and the markets in which we operate.