Technical Operations Manager - Waste Management
20 days ago
Wigan
We are recruiting for an experienced Technical Operations Manager for a waste management operation based in the North West. This is a senior, hands-on technical role where you will lead the optimisation, safety, and compliance of advanced waste treatment processes. TITLE: Technical Operations Manager - Waste Management LOCATION: Wigan, Standish and surrounding areas (with occasional travel to Yorkshire) SALARY: £50-60k + bonus + benefits including pension, private healthcare, and life assurance YOU WILL HAVE EXPERIENCE IN: Waste Treatment, Hazardous Waste, Industrial Waste, Effluent Treatment, Wastewater Treatment, Treatment Plant, Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Compliance, Waste Management ROLE: You will act as the technical authority on treatment chemistry, process engineering, and laboratory analysis—playing a key role in driving operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities * Lead and optimise industrial and hazardous waste treatment processes, including chemical, physical, and biological techniques. * Manage treatment chemistry programmes (e.g. pH adjustment, precipitation, oxidation/reduction, stabilisation/solidification) * Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring accurate testing, QA/QC, and compliance with discharge and permit requirements. * Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices. * Troubleshoot plant issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions. * Ensure compliance with UK environmental legislation, including Environment Agency permits and hazardous waste regulations. * Evaluate new technologies and treatment methods to improve sustainability and cost-efficiency. * Prepare technical reports, mass balances, and regulatory documentation. Essential Requirements * Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field (MSc/PhD desirable) * 5+ years’ experience in waste treatment operations (hazardous, industrial, or chemical waste preferred) * Strong expertise in treatment chemistry (coagulation, flocculation, advanced oxidation, etc.) * Experience working in or managing a laboratory environment (e.g. ICP, GC-MS, titration, QA/QC) * In-depth knowledge of UK environmental regulations and permitting. * Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel. Desirable Skills * Experience with hazardous waste classification and acceptance * Knowledge of SCADA/PLC systems and treatment plant design * Familiarity with ISO 14001 and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean/Six Sigma)