Technical Operations Manager Special Projects (Waste Management) LOCATION: Wigan, Standish and surrounding areas (with occasional travel to Yorkshire) SALARY: £5060k 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 sites 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 implementationfocusing 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