At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy processing facility, ensuring safety and efficiency in operations.
- Company: Join Panda, a leading resource recovery business focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hands-on leadership role with opportunities for growth and impact.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in waste management while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in supervising operations and strong mechanical awareness required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Location: Leeds
Shift: 4 on 4 off, 6pm-6am
Reporting to: Site Manager
The Role
At Panda, we value waste. That means finding smarter, safer and more sustainable ways to recover value from materials while keeping our operations running safely, efficiently and responsibly. We are looking for an experienced Site Supervisor to help lead our busy processing facility. This is a hands-on, visible leadership role suited to someone who thrives in a fast-moving operational environment and enjoys being close to the day-to-day running of the site.
As Site Supervisor at Valley Farm Road, Leeds, you will support the safe, compliant and efficient running of a 24/6 operation. You will play a key role in driving safety standards, managing people, supporting plant performance and helping the site deliver against operational, commercial and environmental targets. This is not an office-based role. We are looking for a practical, decisive and confident supervisor who understands waste processing, plant operations and the importance of leading from the front.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Act as a visible safety leader on site, setting clear standards and supporting a strong zero-harm culture
- Ensure the site operates in line with health and safety legislation, environmental permits, EA requirements and internal standards
- Maintain and support Safe Systems of Work, risk assessments, method statements and permits
- Lead accident investigations, near-miss reporting and follow-up actions
- Deliver toolbox talks, safety briefings and support wider SHEQ activity
- Manage contractor and visitor safety on site
- Help ensure the site remains audit-ready and compliant at all times
- Oversee day-to-day processing, recovery, storage, transport and offtake activity
- Support strong plant availability, throughput, quality and uptime
- Oversee the safe use of static and mobile plant
- Work with engineering teams to support preventative and reactive maintenance
- Use your mechanical awareness to help identify issues, reduce downtime and keep operations moving
- Coordinate shifts, daily plans and operational priorities
- Support the production of SRF and RDF where applicable
- Lead, support and develop site colleagues across a multi-shift operation
- Help ensure the site is correctly resourced, organised and performing effectively
- Support recruitment, induction, training and retention of operational colleagues
- Set clear expectations and hold people accountable
- Build a culture of teamwork, ownership, safety and continuous improvement
- Use operational data and KPIs to understand performance and drive improvement
- Work closely with Engineering, Compliance, SHEQ, Logistics and Commercial teams
What Good Looks Like
Success in this Site Supervisor role will mean:
- A safe, calm, controlled and compliant site operating effectively 24/6
- Strong plant availability with reduced unplanned downtime
- A trained and engaged workforce that understands expectations
- Positive internal, external and EA audit outcomes
- Consistent delivery against throughput, quality and cost KPIs
- A supervisor who is known, respected and visible on the floor
About You
You will have proven experience supervising operations in a waste, recycling, processing, heavy industrial or similar operational environment. You will also need:
- IOSH training as a minimum
- Strong understanding of waste regulation and permit compliance
- Experience leading teams in a high-risk operational environment
- Good mechanical awareness, including repairs and maintenance oversight
- Experience working with mobile and static machinery
- Confident decision-making skills
- Strong planning, organisation and communication skills
- A hands-on leadership style
- The ability to stay calm under pressure and keep operations moving
It would be beneficial if you also have:
- Experience producing SRF and RDF
- Experience engaging with the EA and managing permit requirements
- Familiarity with operational data systems, KPIs or CMMS
- Exposure to continuous improvement or Lean practices
- WAMITAB / COTC qualification, either current or demonstrably close to renewal
- Forklift or plant machinery experience
Why Join Us?
This is a great opportunity for an experienced operational supervisor to take ownership of a key processing facility and make a real impact. As Site Supervisor, you will have the autonomy to lead from the front, the responsibility to support site performance, and the opportunity to influence safety, compliance, people and operational results across a critical part of our business. Join us on the journey.
We are Panda. We value waste. We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste. Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.
At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together. We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward. We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make. And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing. Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact. Take the first step and join us on the journey.
Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
Site Supervisor (Nights) employer: Panda
Panda is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing and development of its employees, offering a competitive salary and benefits package alongside comprehensive training and professional growth opportunities. With a strong commitment to safety, health, environment, and quality, you will be part of a supportive team culture that values collaboration and innovation, allowing you to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic operational setting. Join us in our mission to create positive change in waste management while advancing your SHEQ career in a company that truly values its people.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Supervisor (Nights)
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Panda, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Site Supervisor (Nights)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Panda specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Panda
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Panda, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Panda value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
