Principle Process Scientist

at  Thames Water Utilites

We are looking for a Principle Process Scientist to join Thames Water on a fixed term basis. This is a 26 weeks contract ending in May 2025.
The purpose of this role is to provide the business with expert wastewater treatment process knowledge and direction in order to achieve compliance with regulatory requirements.
Take accountability for those STWs allocated and support the wider team to enable us to focus the team and individual expertise on specific issues.
You will be the key point of contact for the operational area for any compliance and regulatory issues.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING AS A PRINCIPLE PROCESS SCIENTIST

• Lead on optimisation projects with significant defined benefits
• Demonstrating continuous improvement of processes, linking in SOM / EPR / OMP / Standards / AMP7 / Operational Excellence / Innovation team and all other initiatives
• Support and review Final Effluent & mid-process monitoring, respond & escalate rising trends of concern
• Demonstrate a drive to increase engagement score within your team. You should illustrate this by striving for 80% participation rate in Engagement survey with regular quarterly engagement feedback sessions and demonstrable tangible action plans in place in line with the corporate H4U calendar
• Reduce sickness absence through 100% completion of RTW meetings, proactively monitoring and managing attendance including taking appropriate supportive steps, utilising occupational health and where required absence management procedures
• Manage training, development, learning and continuous improvement in your team to support performance
• Demonstrate effective talent management with a focus on high potential talent, including visible support for Mentors, Apprentices, Upskillers and Tech to Manager development
• Proactively manage the performance of the team including effective review of performance and robust support plans to ensure all employees perform to the required standard
• Proactively manage recruitment process with recruitment team, ensuring PAWS are processed with 48hrs, interviews are scheduled before advert closing date
• Ensure that effective daily huddles occur across own area in line with ‘Managing Our Business’ principles and that at audit all areas achieve a green pass with demonstrable actions plans where required
• Ensure that monthly briefings / team meetings covering company key messages such as H&S, communications (team talk), operational performance with documented attendance sheet take place
• Proactively manage the performance of the team including effective review of performance and robust support plans to ensure all employees perform to the required standard
• Hold monthly 1:1 meeting with direct reports
• Carry out 1 task observation a month for their direct reports (where applicable)

WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING TO THE ROLE

• HNC or degree (or equivalent) in a Scientific or Engineering Being registered or chartered scientist would be an advantage although this is not essential
• Significant experience in water treatment processes, supply or regulation, with experience of working with Sample Manager, EQUIS and SAP systems would be desirable
• Good organisational, communication and interpersonal skills are also key to this role as you will be liaising with internal stakeholders within Thames Water on a day-to-day basis
• The ability to work in a logical and analytical manner and be able to maintain a positive and professional approach when dealing with customers is also essential
• Travel to other sites is required as a major part of this role thus a driving license is essential