At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop teams to enhance operational performance and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join United Utilities, committed to a greener and healthier North West.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, competitive pension, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Fixed shifts with no rotation, fostering work-life balance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a leadership role with a focus on team success.
- Qualifications: Full UK Driving Licence and proven team leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 51233 - 51233 £ per year.
The Role Location: Ellesmere Port WWTW, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire Monday–Friday (Fixed Shift Pattern – No Rotation). Full UK Driving Licence Required. No Company Van Provided.
We’re looking for a Wastewater Network Team Leader to lead frontline operational teams, driving performance, productivity, and customer outcomes across our wastewater network. This is a leadership role focused on managing people, improving operational performance, and delivering excellent service—not just technical expertise. You’ll take ownership of shift performance, ensuring teams are set up for success, incidents are managed effectively, and customer issues are resolved first time.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Leading and developing a team to deliver high-quality operational performance.
- Driving productivity across your shift – maximizing output while maintaining safety and quality.
- Monitoring and reporting on performance metrics (e.g., job completion, efficiency, customer outcomes).
- Producing clear shift handover reports and communicating key updates.
- Managing and supporting incident response, including escalations and operational challenges.
- Coaching and developing individuals to improve capability and performance.
- Identifying opportunities to reduce repeat work, improve first‑time resolution, and increase efficiency.
- Ensuring a strong focus on customer experience and service delivery.
- Supporting emergency incident response where necessary to drive best possible customer and regulatory outcomes.
What We’re Looking For
We’re open to candidates from a range of backgrounds—not just wastewater. What matters most is your ability to lead, improve performance, and manage teams effectively.
Essential
- Full UK Driving Licence
- Minimum 5 GCSEs grade A‑C or equivalent, including Maths, English and a Science or Technology subject.
- Proven experience in team leadership or shift management.
- Experience coaching, developing, and managing performance.
- Strong communication skills (written & verbal).
- Ability to analyse performance data and drive improvements.
- Confident handling operational challenges, pressure, and conflict.
- Experience in a regulated industry (e.g., utilities, logistics, manufacturing, retail operations).
- Strong financial understanding to support the Drainage Delivery Manager to deliver financial plans and identify areas for further efficiencies.
Desirable
- Exposure to incident response or operational escalation environments.
- Knowledge of wastewater or network operations.
Assessment Process
- Presentation Task – Demonstrating how you would improve team performance and operational outcomes.
- Competency‑Based Interview – Focused on leadership, performance management, and problem‑solving.
- Scenario‑Based Question – Exploring your approach to operational incidents and challenges.
Additional Information
- Fixed working pattern: Monday to Thursday (14:00‑22:00), Friday 10:00‑18:00.
- No rotating shifts or bank holiday working.
- Role is site‑based within your assigned region.
- As there are multiple locations advertised for this role, please only apply for one.
About Us
Salary – £51,233 plus 10% shift allowance. Work Type – Onsite. Role Type – Permanent. Employment Type – Full Time. Working Hours – 37.0 hours per week (see shifts above). United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves. We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long‑term value for our colleagues, customers and communities.
Benefits
- 26 days’ annual leave (rising to 30 after four years) plus 8 bank holidays.
- Competitive pension with up to 14% employer contribution and life cover.
- Up to 7.5% performance related bonus and recognition awards.
- Company funded healthcare plan.
- MyGym Discounts – savings on gyms and digital fitness.
- Access to Best Doctors, Salary Finance and Wealth at Work.
- Retail deals and discounts.
- EVolve car scheme.
- Employee Assistance Programme and mental health first aiders.
- ShareBuy scheme.
- MORE Choices flexible benefits.
- Enhanced parental leave.
Operations Team Leader in Ellesmere Port employer: United Utilities
Contact Detail:
United Utilities Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Team Leader in Ellesmere Port
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research their values, mission, and recent projects. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the presentation task by thinking about how you would improve team performance. Use real examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your leadership skills and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. This can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and ready to take on the challenge!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Team Leader in Ellesmere Port
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your leadership experience and operational skills. We want to see how you can drive performance and improve customer outcomes, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key in this role, ensure your written application reflects that. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to mention any experience you have in producing reports or handling customer issues effectively.
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Abilities: We’re looking for someone who can handle operational challenges with confidence. In your application, share examples of how you've tackled tough situations in the past, especially in a regulated environment. This will show us you’re ready for the demands of the role!
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Utilities
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the Operations Team Leader role. Brush up on your knowledge of wastewater operations and team management. Being able to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams or improved performance will show you're the right fit.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Since there will be scenario-based questions, think about past incidents you've managed. Prepare to explain your approach to resolving operational challenges and how you ensured customer satisfaction. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about leading a team, so be ready to talk about your leadership style. Share examples of how you've coached team members, handled conflicts, and driven productivity. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create a positive work environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, ensure you listen actively and respond thoughtfully to questions, demonstrating your ability to convey information effectively.