Industrial Chemist in Newtownabbey

The Treatment Plant Chemist will play a critical technical role within the Duncrue facility by overseeing the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, treatment plants, and transfer station. The postholder will ensure that all incoming and outgoing waste streams are accurately analysed, correctly classified, and processed in line with regulatory, environmental, and company standards. This role directly supports safe and compliant waste treatment by conducting laboratory testing, assigning disposal routes, monitoring treatment processes, maintaining accurate records, and supporting operational decision-making. The Chemist will also contribute to plant operations, waste identification, blending activities, and general site support to maintain efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible operations across the facility.

Location of role: Irish Waste, 116 120 Duncrue Street, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT3 9AR

Key Responsibilities

• Laboratory Analysis & Testing
  • Carry out analysis of all incoming waste streams to the treatment plants, including metal determination, flash point testing, COD measurements, pH testing, calorimetry, and titrations for acid/alkali strength.
  • Conduct outgoing waste analysis for trade effluent, tipper solids, solvents, and other materials using the same analytical methods.
  • Complete laboratory-scale trials and analysis for project work as required.
  • Maintain accurate written and digital records of all test results in accordance with company procedures.
  • Update laboratory and waste analysis databases and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly.
  • Calibrate laboratory equipment, including weekly pH meter calibration.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organised laboratory environment, including cleaning glassware, sample bottles, and general lab housekeeping.
• Waste Classification & Disposal Routing
  • Test and assign disposal routes for new waste streams under the supervision of the Site Manager.
  • Assist sales staff with chemical lifts, including small-pack materials.
  • Identify drummed loads arriving on site and verify materials against paperwork.
  • Supervise the safe offloading of materials into designated areas.
• Treatment Plant Operations
  • Support the operation of the chemical neutralisation plant under supervision.
  • Assist in the operation of all treatment plants as required.
  • Conduct testing of solids in the drying plant and oils for the oil recovery plant.
  • Participate in plant maintenance activities, including cleaning, jetting, and general upkeep.
• Transfer Station Activities
  • Control and update databases to track materials through the transfer station.
  • Carry out bulk and blend operations following authorisation from the Supervisor or Treatment Plant Manager.
  • Conduct small-scale trial blends where required and complete blending records accurately.
  • Maintain clean and safe conditions within the yard and transfer station.
• Sample Management
  • Rotate keep samples in line with company procedures.
  • Clean and maintain sample bottles.
  • Ensure sample boxes are stocked and prepared for drivers.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Adhere to all Health & Safety, Environmental, and operational policies and procedures.
  • Wear all required PPE and ensure it is kept clean, fit for purpose, and used correctly.
  • Report hazards, unsafe conditions, near misses, spills, and equipment defects promptly.
  • Support ISO, waste permitting, and compliance obligations through accurate testing, documentation, and safe working practices.
  • Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings, and training sessions.
• Teamwork & Site Support
  • Work collaboratively with the Site Manager, Supervisors, Operators, and wider site team.
  • Assist with general site duties as required to support operational flow.
  • Support new starters by demonstrating correct laboratory and site standards.
  • Operate a forklift (training provided) to support waste handling and movement.

This is not an exhaustive list. You may also be required to carry out any other duties as required by the business that you are qualified/trained in that meet the requirements of this role.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Essential
  • Degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Chemistry or a closely related science discipline.
  • Experience working in a laboratory environment.
  • Practical experience with analytical techniques such as calorimetry, flash point determination, COD, pH measurement, and titration.
  • Strong organisational skills with excellent record-keeping and attention to detail.
  • Ability to interpret instructions and translate them into safe, accurate actions.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
  • Broad chemical awareness and understanding of chemical hazards.
  • Good Health & Safety awareness and ability to follow safe working practices.
  • Physically fit and able to carry out manual tasks associated with plant and laboratory work.
  • Dependable, compliant, and able to maintain high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
  • Reliable, with strong timekeeping and attendance.
• Desirable
  • Experience working within the waste management, environmental, or industrial sectors.
  • Knowledge of ISO 9002 and ISO 14001 systems.
  • Experience with record-keeping systems, databases, and general computer applications.
  • Understanding of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and chemical hazard classifications.
  • Forklift licence (or willingness to obtain one).
  • Full driving licence.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and use initiative to solve problems.
  • Willingness to work overtime or shift work when required.
  • Strong commitment to maintaining safe, clean, and compliant laboratory and site conditions.

Why Work For Enva?

Enva is committed to providing more than just jobs, we want to grow our business by offering career paths that match the aspirations of the talent that is increasingly aware of the need to protect the planet we all share. For the right candidates, the possibilities are truly endless and we will offer all the support, training and benefits you need to help you realise your true potential.

Examples of Company Benefits:

• A competitive salary in a growing company committed to our people.
• A competitive holiday allowance.
• Company pension scheme.
• Enhanced family friendly policies.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Lifestyle & Leisure Discounts: Discounts for gym, leisure, cinema, shopping and many more.
• Employee Life Insurance.
• Bike2Work scheme.
• Free on-site parking.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme.

About Enva

Enva is a leading provider of recycling and resource recovery solutions, with locations across the United Kingdom and Ireland. We operate across 4 core waste streams: Hazardous Materials, Non-Hazardous Materials, Hydrocarbons and General Waste Recycling. With sustainability at the forefront of our proposition, we recover a broad range of waste materials for re-use in manufacturing and energy conversion. At Enva, we are committed to recycling and resource recovery; it forms the basis of our business strategy and our values. We support the life cycle of waste products to provide either a second life, such as the production of energy or, in many cases, closed-loop recycling solutions. Our dedication to developing new and innovative products and solutions and extending the life cycle of the world's resources is driving our business forward.