Process Operator

United Utilities; Burnley; On-site; GBP 31,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK water company is seeking a hands-on individual for a role in wastewater treatment based in Burnley. This position involves operational maintenance tasks, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, and conducting routine inspections. The ideal candidate will possess a full UK driving licence and have relevant experience in similar environments. The role requires adaptability and a flexible approach to changing priorities while ensuring public health and environmental goals are met.

Benefits

26 days annual leave

Up to 14% employer pension contribution

Performance-related bonus scheme

Comprehensive healthcare plan

Gym and wellness discounts

Employee Assistance Plan

Enhanced parental leave schemes

Qualifications

• Must possess a full UK driving licence.
• Demonstrable experience in operational tasks in a similar environment.
• Understanding of compliance and environmental output standards.

Responsibilities

• Carry out operational and maintenance tasks across wastewater treatment processes.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
• Conduct routine checks and inspections across sites.
• Adapt to changing tasks and priorities.

Skills

Full UK driving licence

Experience in a similar environment

Knowledge of environmental output standards

Strong problem-solving skills

Ability to follow processes safely

Comfortable in a physically active role

Flexible approach to tasks

Job description

Job number UU04101 Country United Kingdom Region Lancashire Location name BURNLEYWOODEN, BURNLEY WWTW, WOODEND, OFF BARNLEY LANE, BURNLEY, BB12 9DS Posting End Date 31/03/2026 Band 6c Role Type Permanent Work hours 37 Hours per Week Salary £30,952

Making a Difference Where It Really Matters

About Us

Salary - £30,952
Work Type - Onsite
Job Location - BURNLEYWOODEN, BURNLEY WWTW, WOODEND, OFF BARNLEY LANE, BURNLEY, BB12 9DS
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 value 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

The Role

We’re looking for someone hands‑on, team focused individual to help keep our wastewater treatment sites running smoothly. Based on site, you’ll carry out essential tasks across a number of treatment sites, helping us meet important environmental, safety and customer standards.

From taking samples and readings to cleaning and routine checks, your work will play a key part in protecting public health, the environment, and the communities we serve.

Role Accountabilities

• Carrying out day‑to‑day operational and maintenance tasks across wastewater treatment processes.
• Helping ensure our sites meet environmental regulations and performance targets.
• Taking a hands‑on approach to both planned and reactive work.
• Adapting to change tasks and priorities as needed.
• Carry out routine checks, inspections, and maintenance tasks across operational sites.
• Support with investigations, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions where required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to optimise contractors to deliver operational objectives.

Key Skills & Experience

• Full UK driving licence is required.
• Experience in a similar environment with demonstrable transferable skills.
• Knowledge of environmental output standards, compliance requirements, and procedures.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
• Ability to follow processes and work safely at all times.
• Comfortable in a physically active, hands‑on role.
• Willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Flexible approach to changing tasks and priorities.
• Willingness and ability to work towards an accredited qualification relevant to the role.
• Ability to support a standby rota; living within a reasonable distance of the Burnley site is essential.

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.