Lead Process Technician

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