Interim Team Leader – Waste & Recycling
Location: Uttlesford District
Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary
Hours: 37 hours per week
Contract Length: Initial 3 months (with potential to extend and temp-to-perm opportunities)
Pay Rate: £170.00 PAYE (negotiable depending on experience)
Start Date: Monday 5 January 2026
Working Arrangement: On-site – 4 days per week
Minerva Recruitment is recruiting on behalf of Uttlesford District Council for an experienced Interim Waste & Recycling Team Leader to join their Environmental Services team on a full-time, temporary basis.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong operational knowledge, people management skills, and a commitment to delivering efficient, safe, and high-quality waste and recycling services across the district.
Role
The successful candidate will lead and coordinate the delivery of waste and recycling services, ensuring operations are carried out efficiently, safely, and in line with legislative requirements. You will be responsible for leading staff, supporting service delivery, and contributing to improvements that enhance the local environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead, supervise, organise, support, and advise operational staff to deliver an effective service
Ensure full compliance with health and safety requirements, including the correct use of PPE
Work closely with Service Coordinators to programme planned works and respond to ad-hoc requests
Allocate resources effectively to maximise productivity and service outcomes
Carry out site visits to assess staffing requirements and prepare costings for rechargeable works
Liaise with Transport and Workshop Managers to ensure all drivers are appropriately licensed and assessed
Complete and maintain accurate administrative records and operational documentation
Support the wider Environmental Services team, providing cover during annual leave, sickness, and peak periodsKnowledge & Experience
Strong knowledge of waste and recycling service requirements and relevant legislation
Good understanding of health and safety obligations within an operational environment
Geographical knowledge of the Uttlesford district or ability to develop this quickly
Significant experience managing waste management operations
Proven experience leading or supervising operational teamsSkills & Attributes
Self-motivated with the ability to motivate and lead others without direct supervision
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Excellent organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
Practical understanding of vehicle and equipment maintenance
Professional, firm, and customer-focused approach to service deliveryQualifications & Training
Full UK driving licence with Category B+E entitlement
IOSH qualification (or willingness to undertake training)
Competent IT skills, including Outlook, Teams, Word, and ExcelWhy Apply?
Competitive daily rates
Opportunity to work within a respected local authority
Potential contract extension and temp-to-perm opportunities
Leadership role with real operational impact
To apply or for further information, please contact Minerva Recruitment. We look forward to hearing from experienced waste and recycling professionals seeking their next interim leadership opportunity