Lead Technician
Process Manufacturing / Chemical Operations
North East England
Permanent role – continental shift pattern
We are supporting an industrial client in the North East that is building an operational team for a modern plastic-to-oil process facility. As part of this growth, we are looking to recruit an experienced Lead Technician to support safe, stable and efficient plant operations.
This role sits within the production team and reports to the Production Team Leader. The Lead Technician will act as the senior technical authority on shift, supporting operational oversight, troubleshooting process issues and guiding operators to ensure the plant operates within defined parameters.
The position plays an important role in maintaining plant availability, minimising downtime and supporting continuous improvement in a 24/7 operational environment.
Role responsibilities
Assist in leading day-to-day production activities to ensure safe, compliant and efficient plant operation
Promote and maintain a strong safety culture aligned with COMAH and high-hazard industry standards
Monitor plant conditions and support troubleshooting of process deviations
Provide hands-on guidance and coaching to operators on shift
Support the development and maintenance of standard operating procedures
Prepare and issue permits to work and ensure correct isolation of equipment using lockout tagout systems
Carry out safety audits and contribute to safe systems of work
Conduct laboratory analysis including air tests where required
Lead level 1 maintenance activities and assist with equipment troubleshooting
Work closely with engineering, EHS and other departments to resolve operational issues
Support efficiency, reliability and continuous improvement initiatives across production
Act as deputy to the Production Team Leader when required
Contribute to the development of new operational areas as the business grows
Key accountabilities
Safe and compliant execution of production activities
Effective application of permit to work and controlled operations systems
Strong operational leadership and support for production teams
Timely identification and resolution of operational issues
Contribution to plant reliability, operational efficiency and continuous improvement
Candidate profile
Proven experience within chemical manufacturing or a similar high-hazard process environment
Ideally a minimum of five years’ operational experience in a process industry
Level 2 or Level 3 process operations qualification or equivalent
Experience working with permit to work and controlled operations systems
Strong leadership capability and ability to support team development
Excellent communication, problem-solving and organisational skills
Experience working on a COMAH site would be advantageous
Forklift truck licence desirable but not essential
Flexibility to work a continental shift pattern
Key competencies
Leadership and team support
Safety awareness and accountability
Strong problem-solving ability
Effective communication and collaboration
Continuous improvement mindset
Strong organisational and time management skills
Attention to detail and process discipline
Ability to monitor and interpret process parameters
Practical competence using lockout tagout and permit to work systems
If you have a background in process manufacturing and are looking to take the next step in your career within a growing industrial operation, we would be interested in speaking with you