Steel manufacturer SSI UK is seeking engineers, senior managers, craftsmen and technical specialists to fill 1,000 new jobs at its Redcar plant, according to a spokesperson for the steel giant.

Last week the firm announced details of its work programme associated with the resumption of iron and steelmaking on its Teesside site, which ceased operation in February 2010, when it was owned by Tata Steel. The site was bought by SSI UK in March this year.

SSI UK confirmed 1,000 new jobs would be created and it would be launching its recruitment campaign on 8 August.

The spokesperson told Recruiter that the site had remained partially operational as around 800 people were employed on the site producing coke from coal. Coke is used in central heating as a fuel.

The spokesperson said: “Those plants have never stopped because to stop them and restart them is not practical. We have been exporting coke from this site so the coke operation is still operating, as is the power station.

“We will be taking on board up to 1,000 new jobs over the next few months. They will range from senior management grades, engineering, manufacturing and technical roles - engineers, process and engineering grades — craftsmen etc. It is across the whole range really, with some functional people.

“There was a big redundancy programme two years ago. We were paying off a similar number of people. Under a new regime, we are able to take those numbers back. The recruitment will be a mix of experienced people but is also a wonderful opportunity to bring some young people in who are new to the industry.

“It will be a huge recruitment campaign launching next Monday. Candidates can apply online and we are expecting quite a response, with unemployment rates as they are. Some experienced people will want to come back and apply but is also an opportunity to recruit some young people who would like a career in steel.”