Production Operator

Pertemps Newcastle & Gateshead; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water treatment company in Tees Valley is seeking a Production Operator to ensure safe operation and maintenance of water treatment processes. This role involves managing chemical dosing and conducting quality analysis to maintain high standards in water supply. Successful candidates will have strong analytical skills, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work flexibly. The contract runs until January 31, 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in process operations, preferably within water treatment or a related industry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data.
• A commitment to safety, quality and environmental standards.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work shifts and respond to operational demands.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor treatment processes from raw water through to final product.
• Manage chemical dosing and carry out water quality analysis.
• Oversee sludge and effluent management to maintain compliance.
• Use data analysis to optimise chemical usage and process efficiency.
• Perform routine site activities including validation and calibration.
• Escalate non-routine events like breakdowns and non-compliance.
• Support contractors and ensure all work is carried out safely.
• Carry out additional duties such as reservoir inspection.
• Maintain accurate and timely site records.
• Manage chemical inventory levels.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Safety commitment

Teamwork

Job description

Production Operator
Stressholme Darlington
Contract until 31st January 2026

As a Production Operator at Northumbrian Water, you'll be responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of all water treatment processes and assets at your designated Water Treatment Works. Working within a highly regulated and quality-controlled environment, you'll apply your technical knowledge to make process adjustments, ensuring that our customers receive a safe, high-quality water supply at all times.
By optimising treatment processes, you'll help ensure our product consistently meets internal and external quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor treatment processes from raw water through to final product.
• Manage chemical dosing, carry out water quality analysis, and interpret laboratory results.
• Oversee sludge and effluent management to maintain compliance.
• Use data analysis and interpretation to optimise chemical usage and process efficiency.
• Work with the Regional Control Centre to manage site flows, pumping and storage to deliver the daily production plan.
• Perform routine site activities including validation, calibration, preventative maintenance, and site inspections.
• Escalate non-routine events such as breakdowns, non-compliance, or environmental incidents.
• Support contractors, suppliers, and other teams on site, ensuring all work is carried out safely and without risk to water quality.
• Where required, carry out additional duties such as reservoir inspection and record-keeping.
• Work safely with chemicals, toxic gases, and dangerous goods, following appropriate safe systems of work.
• Carry out lock-off and tag-off procedures in line with company policy.
• Maintain accurate and timely site records, including diaries, logs, calibration data, chemical stocks, lab results, fire alarm tests, and health & safety records.
• Monitor and manage chemical inventory levels to ensure adequate supply at all times.

About you

• Experience in process operations, preferably within water treatment or a related industry (but not essential)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data.
• A commitment to safety, quality and environmental standards.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility to work shifts and respond to operational demands.