Technical Operations Manager – Special Projects
Technical Operations Manager – Special Projects (Waste Management)
LOCATION: Wigan, Standish and surrounding areas (with occasional travel to Yorkshire)
SALARY: £50–60k + bonus + benefits including pension, private healthcare, and life assurance
Overview
We are recruiting for an experienced Technical Operations Manager to take a lead role in special projects and technical innovation across a complex waste management operation in the North West.
This is a senior, hands-on position focused on driving high-impact projects, process optimisation initiatives, and new treatment solutions. You will act as the site’s technical authority while spearheading projects that improve performance, sustainability, and regulatory compliance.
Role
You will lead and deliver special projects across waste treatment operations, from concept through to implementation—focusing on process improvement, new technology integration, and complex technical challenges.
Alongside this, you will act as the technical expert in treatment chemistry, process engineering, and laboratory analysis, ensuring operational excellence and compliance across the site.
Key Responsibilities
Special Projects & Innovation
Lead technical special projects to improve plant performance, efficiency, and environmental outcomes
Evaluate, trial, and implement new treatment technologies and methodologies
Deliver process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives across multiple treatment streams
Manage project lifecycles including feasibility, design input, commissioning, and performance validation
Technical Leadership
Act as the technical authority on treatment chemistry, process engineering, and waste treatment methodologies
Lead optimisation of industrial and hazardous waste treatment processes (chemical, physical, biological)
Design and enhance treatment chemistry programmes (e.g. pH adjustment, precipitation, oxidation/reduction, stabilisation/solidification)
Operational & Laboratory Oversight
Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring robust QA/QC, accurate analysis, and regulatory compliance
Develop and implement SOPs and best practice standards across operations
Troubleshoot complex plant issues, conduct root cause analysis, and implement long-term solutions
Compliance & Reporting
Ensure full compliance with UK environmental legislation and Environment Agency permits
Prepare technical documentation including mass balances, project reports, and regulatory submissions
Essential Requirements
Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field (MSc/PhD desirable)
5+ years’ experience in waste treatment operations (hazardous, industrial, or chemical waste preferred)
Strong expertise in treatment chemistry (coagulation, flocculation, advanced oxidation, etc.)
Proven experience delivering technical projects or process improvement initiatives
Experience working in or managing a laboratory environment (e.g. ICP, GC-MS, titration, QA/QC)
In-depth knowledge of UK environmental regulations and permitting
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel
Desirable Skills
Experience with hazardous waste classification and acceptance
Knowledge of SCADA/PLC systems and treatment plant design
Familiarity with ISO 14001 and continuous improvement methodologies (Lean/Six Sigma)
Experience in capital projects, commissioning, or plant upgrades