Operational Process Engineer

UNITED UTILITIES GROUP PLC; England; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility company in the UK is seeking a Hub Production Engineer to oversee sludge-to-energy operations. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Process or Chemical Engineering, strong problem-solving skills, and experience in wastewater treatment processes. This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary and a flexible hybrid work environment.

Benefits

26-30 days annual leave

Pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution

Performance-related bonus scheme up to 10.5%

Comprehensive healthcare plan

Gym discounts

Employee Assistance Plan

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification in Process Engineering or Chemical Engineering.
• Strong foundation in wastewater treatment processes.
• Proven problem-solving skills and ability to deliver effective solutions.

Responsibilities

• Drive efficient and cost-effective performance.
• Partner with managers to set KPIs and develop emergency plans.
• Maximise energy recovery from sludge.

Skills

Process Engineering

Problem-solving

Technical knowledge of sludge-to-energy systems

Collaboration and influencing

Education

Degree in Process Engineering or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Are you passionate about driving innovation and performance in sustainable energy and resource management? We're looking for a dynamic Hub Production Engineer to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our Bioresources function.

In this exciting role, you'll be the technical heartbeat of our operations-supporting both the Operational Strategy Manager and Production Planning Manager with expert insight and strategic planning. You'll take the lead on our Sludge to Energy processes, overseeing everything from sludge production to gas, fertiliser, and energy generation.

But that's not all-you'll also be at the forefront of designing smarter procedures, enhancing controls, and championing continuous improvement across the business. With a sharp focus on regional KPIs, you'll help unlock performance potential and drive meaningful change.

As Hub Production Engineer, you'll be at the centre of our Sludge to Energy operations, with key responsibilities including:

• Driving efficient and cost-effective performance across the Sludge to Energy production line, ensuring targets are met on time and within budget.
• Partnering with the Digestion Site Production Manager to set realistic and achievable KPIs, develop emergency plans, and sign off critical procedures and processes.
• Maximising energy recovery from sludge across multiple Wastewater Treatment Works, enhancing output and sustainability.
• Optimising production performance across ENP sub-processes-including gas, fertiliser, and energy generation-while maintaining full compliance with regulatory standards.
• Planning and deploying safe operations and maintenance tasks, collaborating with other business areas and acting as an authorised person when required.
• Boosting operational efficiency and gas yield by managing sludge stock in alignment with the Sludge Production Plan.
• Controlling chemical usage and budget adherence, ensuring the Sludge Production Plan is delivered with financial and environmental responsibility.
• Building strong relationships across the business, influencing stakeholders to maximise energy generation from sludge and integrate seamlessly into the wider operational team.
• Managing service level agreements (SLAs) with regional service providers and third-party suppliers, ensuring performance targets are consistently met.

To be successful in this role, you'll need:

• A degree-level qualification in Process Engineering or Chemical Engineering, with relevant experience in either discipline considered.
• A full UK driving license as regular travel is required across different sites.
• A strong foundation in wastewater treatment processes or related chemical engineering applications, with a track record of developing, implementing, and auditing operational procedures.
• Proven problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyse complex issues and deliver effective solutions.
• Excellent technical knowledge of sludge-to-energy systems and associated technologies.
• Confident influencing skills across all levels of the organisation, fostering collaboration and driving performance.
• A commitment to continuous learning, with evidence of staying up to date with technological advancements.
• Solid understanding of Health & Safety and regulatory frameworks, including DSC, HACCP, Environmental Permitting & Sludge Regulations.

In return for your hard work, you'll enjoy a range of benefits, including:

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holiday.
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Salary - Competitive Salary

Work Type - Hybrid

Job Location - Shell Green Mersey Valley Process Centre, Bennetts Lane, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0WB

Role Type - Permanent

Employment Type - Full Time

Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week

United Utilities' (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.

We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.