Wastewater Operations Specialist

idibu; Reading; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the UK water and wastewater sector is seeking an Operations Specialist. This role involves identifying and mitigating pollution risks, supporting operational teams, and providing practical solutions. Candidates should have experience in sewage treatment and a strong understanding of process science. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits, including annual leave and health support.

Benefits

Competitive salary up to £45,000 per annum

26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 with service

Car allowance

Pension scheme

Health and wellbeing benefits

Qualifications

• Operational experience with a solid understanding of process science.
• Experience at sewage treatment works is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Proactively fault find, intervene, and prevent pollution risks.
• Support pollution investigations and operational events.

Skills

Time Management

Data Analysis

Job description

The Operations Specialist position requires individuals with site experience, technical insight, and an understanding of permit requirements to proactively address issues.

As a proactive 'first responder', you will identify and mitigate risks related to pollution and permit breaches. You will support our Operations teams by providing practical, cost-effective solutions.

Supporting the Process Specialists, you will assist with on-site analysis, sampling, coaching, and investigations, providing critical data. The role is suited for those with a strong understanding of sewage treatment operations.

Location and Working Hours

• Location: Berkshire, covering multiple sites. Candidates must have access to a vehicle, business-use insurance, and a full UK driving license.
• 36 hours per week (Monday to Friday), with participation in an out-of-hours call-out rota.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively fault find, intervene, and prevent pollution risks; optimize processes to reduce costs.
• Use data and sampling to investigate issues, support capital projects, and communicate findings.
• Support pollution investigations and operational events.
• Attend regulatory compliance reviews, own actions, and deliver site improvements.
• Act as a technical expert, including on new wastewater technologies, and share knowledge with teams.

Candidate Requirements

• Operational experience with a solid understanding of process science.
• Experience at sewage treatment works is highly desirable.
• Understanding of permitting and regulatory obligations.
• Experience in process improvements and supporting innovative ideas.
• Excellent time management and data analysis skills using IT systems.

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £45,000 per annum.
• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 with service, plus bank holidays.
• Car allowance and pension scheme.
• Health and wellbeing benefits, including health MOTs, physiotherapy, counselling, Cycle to Work, vouchers, and life assurance.

Join Thames Water, the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, committed to building a better future for customers, communities, and the planet. We offer diverse, rewarding careers with opportunities for growth and development.