Process Operator in Leigh

We are recruiting a Process Operator to join United Utilities on a permanent basis, playing a key role in the safe, efficient and compliant operation of our wastewater treatment assets. Reporting to the Production Manager, you will be part of a collaborative operational team, supporting a designated portfolio of Wastewater Treatment assets that protect the environment and serve our communities. This is a hands‑on role that combines planned operational activity with reactive work in an outdoor operational environment. Starting your day from our Leigh site, you will visit sites across your assigned area and be comfortable working independently for extended periods, using sound judgement and practical decision making.

The Role

As a Process Operator, you will carry out operational and maintenance activities across a range of wastewater treatment processes, ensuring assets are operated safely, efficiently and in full compliance with environmental regulations and business performance targets. You will be confident working alone, self‑sufficient and organised, with the ability to assess situations logically, identify risks and take appropriate action. Site safety will be at the forefront of everything you do. You will maintain strong situational awareness, follow safe systems of work and promote a positive safety culture. Clear and effective communication is essential, as you will regularly liaise with Process Controllers, Resource Co‑ordinators, Field Service Engineers, the Production Manager and external contractors to ensure work is delivered safely and efficiently.

Accountabilities and Responsibilities

• Operating and monitoring a range of biotreatment processes to meet environmental regulations and business performance targets, including sampling, readings and process analysis in line with UWWTD and MCERTS requirements.
• Carrying out physically demanding operational tasks in an outdoor environment, often working independently.
• Completing planned operational and maintenance activities as scheduled through the Work Planning process while responding effectively to reactive work arising from asset or process failure.
• Identifying, raising and managing proactive and reactive work orders to maintain asset performance and reliability.
• Accurately recording and updating all planned and reactive work on a daily basis using corporate scheduling and work management systems.
• Using operational data to monitor process performance, identify underperformance and report exceptions to Process Controllers.
• Identifying asset failures or changes in process performance, applying practical judgement to determine appropriate corrective action.
• Escalating operational issues and risks to the Process Controller or Production Manager where required.
• Working safely at all times in accordance with health and safety legislation, safe systems of work and internal company policies.
• Achieving and maintaining a Licence to Operate for wastewater treatment processes as defined by the Wastewater Treatment Manager.

Technical Skills & Experience

• A valid driving licence, essential for accessing operational sites.
• The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, demonstrating resilience, self‑motivation and practical decision making.
• A strong commitment to site safety, with the confidence to challenge unsafe practices and follow procedures consistently.
• Good communication skills, enabling you to work effectively with colleagues who may be off site, management teams and contractors.
• Basic computer skills, allowing you to record work orders, report process data and communicate electronically with colleagues and the Treatment Management Team.
• Practical experience working in an operational environment.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment assets and processes to support effective monitoring and control.
• A basic understanding of environmental output standards and procedures within the wastewater industry, desirable, to support compliance and accurate data reporting.

Why This Role

This is a rewarding opportunity to build a long‑term career with United Utilities in a role that delivers real environmental and community benefit. You will develop strong technical and operational capability, work towards recognised licences and accreditations, and gain responsibility within a safety focused, supportive team. The role offers variety, autonomy and the opportunity to make sound operational decisions that directly impact performance and compliance.

26 days annual leave rising to 30 days with service, plus bank holidays consolidated into a total annual leave allowance reflective of your shift work arrangements. 26% shift premium added to your basic salary. Competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution. Performance related bonus up to 7.5%. Company funded healthcare plan. Gym discounts and digital fitness benefits. Salary Finance, Wealth at Work courses and employee discounts. Employee Assistance Plan and mental health first aiders. ShareBuy and MORE Choices flexible benefits. Enhanced parental leave schemes.

If you are practical, safety focused and confident working independently while remaining connected to a wider team, we encourage you to apply and take the next step in your career with United Utilities.