Process Operator

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Compensation & Work Details

• Salary – £30,952
• Work Type – Onsite
• Job Location – Millom Wastewater Treatment Works, Foundry Road, Millom LA18 4BW
• Role Type – Permanent
• Employment Type – Full Time
• Working Hours – 37.0 Hours per Week

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. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and contribution.

Benefits

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• Up to 7.5% performance‑related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company‑funded scheme
• MyGymDiscounts – gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
• Best Doctors
• Salary Finance
• Wealth at Work courses
• Deals and discounts
• EVolve Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Mental health first aiders
• ShareBuy
• MORE Choices flexible benefits
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Job Purpose

We are seeking a dedicated individual to support the delivery of key operational tasks across a designated portfolio of Wastewater Treatment assets. This role is vital in ensuring assets are operated efficiently and in full compliance with regulatory and customer service standards. You will be responsible for monitoring and reporting performance, identifying and addressing underperformance, and escalating risks where necessary. Working as part of a local team, you will collaborate closely with Process Controllers, Resource Co‑ordinators, and Field Service Engineers to deliver both operational and maintenance activities. A Licence to Operate and strong technical competence are essential, as is the flexibility to work across multiple sites or focus on specific processes depending on business needs.

Accountabilities & Responsibilities

• Carry out operational and maintenance activities across various Wastewater Treatment processes to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and business performance targets, including sampling, analysis, and cleaning tasks.
• Perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments, following scheduled tasks and accurately recording both planned and reactive work using the company’s scheduling system.
• Monitor treatment processes using operational data, identify performance issues or asset failures, and take appropriate corrective action or elevate to the Process Controller as needed.
• Maintain accurate and timely data reporting to support effective work planning and ensure all activities meet health and safety standards and internal policies.
• Achieve and sustain a Licence to Operate, demonstrating technical competence and the ability to respond to changes in process performance.

Technical Skills & Experience

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, demonstrating resilience, self‑motivation, and the necessary technical competence to operate Wastewater Treatment processes.
• Basic computer literacy is essential, including the ability to report work order status, record process data, and communicate electronically with colleagues and the wider treatment team.
• Proven practical experience in an operational environment, ideally with 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 is desirable to help ensure compliance and accurate data reporting.
• Commitment to maintaining a Licence to Operate and continuously developing technical skills to support regulatory and business performance.

This role may not be eligible for the visa sponsorship.

We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.