Water Quality Field Operations Manager in Reading

We are seeking a Quality Manager to lead the development and implementation of a robust Quality Management System (QMS) for our water sampling operations. This role is critical in ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 and the Drinking Water Testing Specification (DWTS), with the ultimate aim of achieving and maintaining UKAS accreditation. Initially, you will focus on designing and embedding processes and standards to bring water sampling in-house. You will take responsibility for managing a small team of Water Quality Samplers and Water Fittings Inspectors, delivering statutory and operational sampling programmes and investigations. You will also develop and implement quality assurance protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability, and once the QMS and accreditation are in place, you will oversee ongoing compliance with all relevant standards and requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and lead a critical function within our business. If you have a strong understanding of ISO/IEC 17025 and DWTS requirements, proven experience in quality management within a technical or regulatory environment, and the ability to lead and inspire a team, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Establishing Quality Management System and Accreditation
• Design and implement a Quality Management System for sampling activities, aligned with ISO 17025 and DWTS requirements.
• Develop and maintain documented policies, procedures, and audit trails for sampling, transportation, and chain of custody.
• Develop and implement robust quality assurance protocols to ensure the integrity and reliability of all water sampling operations.
• Liaise with UKAS and regulatory bodies (e.g., DWI) to ensure compliance and readiness for accreditation audits.
• Lead internal audits and proficiency testing schemes; manage corrective actions for non-conformances.
• Train and competence-assess sampling staff to meet accreditation standards.
• Prepare and submit UKAS application and manage assessment process to gain accreditation.
• Once the QMS and accreditation are established, ensure ongoing compliance with all relevant standards and requirements, including regular review and continuous improvement of quality assurance processes.

Risk Management and Compliance Escalation

• Identify, assess, and mitigate operational and compliance risks associated with water quality sampling and water fittings duties.
• Integrate risk management practices into all operational processes, ensuring risks are monitored, documented, and addressed in a timely manner.
• Escalate significant risks or compliance issues according to company policy, ensuring prompt notification to senior management as required.
• Maintain robust records of risk assessments, mitigation actions, and escalation outcomes.
• Promote a culture of risk awareness and continuous improvement within the team.

Operational Leadership

• Manage a team of Water Quality Samplers and Water Fittings inspectors, ensuring safe and compliant operations.
• Set clear objectives and performance standards for team members, regularly monitor progress, and conduct performance reviews.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and support to develop team members’ skills and foster a culture of continuous improvement, alongside leading recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training for new and existing staff.
• Address performance issues constructively and in line with company policy, supporting professional development and, where necessary, managing disciplinary processes.
• Oversee delivery of statutory and operational sampling programmes across all water supply zones, whilst providing expert advice on compliance with all water quality sampling and water fittings matters.
• Ensure adherence to Health & Safety, COSHH, and environmental requirements.
• Optimise scheduling and resource allocation using digital tools for route planning and workload balancing.
• Maintain relationships with external stakeholders, including subcontracted laboratory providers and industry forums.

About You

• Strong knowledge of Water Supply Regulations and UKAS accreditation requirements.
• Experience in implementing ISO 17025-compliant systems and managing audits.
• Proven ability to lead teams and embed a culture of compliance and continuous improvement.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Degree in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• Previous experience in water quality sampling or laboratory operations.
• Familiarity with Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) requirements and DWTS.

Your Development and Benefits

• Salary which aligns to your experience and skillset.
• An additional day off to celebrate your birthday.
• Annual discretionary bonus.
• Company pension plan.
• Health Cash plan through Westfield Health.
• Option to purchase additional holiday days through our Holiday Buying Scheme.
• Engagement committee with events throughout the year, including Summer Party and individual team socials.
• Paid professional memberships relevant to your role and access to professional development opportunities.

Leep Utilities is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to create a working environment in which all individuals are able to make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment. If you require any appropriate accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know.