Waste Operations Supervisor

Company Description Bury Council is a public sector organization dedicated to delivering high-quality services and improving the quality of life for all residents. The council is committed to supporting, developing, and valuing its employees, recognizing that a motivated workforce is key to effective service delivery. Colleagues work collaboratively across departments to provide safe, sustainable, and efficient community services. The council promotes an inclusive culture where people from all backgrounds can contribute and grow. Applicants can expect a supportive environment that encourages professional development and positive impact on the local community.

Role Description This is a full-time, on-site Waste Operations Supervisor role based in Salford. The Waste Operations Supervisor will oversee daily waste collection and disposal activities, ensuring routes are completed safely, efficiently, and in line with council standards and regulations. The role involves supervising and supporting frontline waste crews, managing schedules, allocating resources, and monitoring service performance. The post holder will handle operational issues in real time, including responding to missed collections, service requests, complaints, and incidents. They will conduct on-site checks, promote safe working practices, and ensure compliance with health and safety policies and environmental legislation. The supervisor will also liaise with residents, internal teams, and external partners to resolve queries, improve service quality, and support service improvement initiatives. Regular reporting, record-keeping, and participation in team meetings and training will be part of the day-to-day responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Experience in supervising operational teams, ideally within waste management, environmental services, or a similar service-focused setting.
• Strong understanding of health and safety practices, risk assessments, and safe systems of work in a front-line operational environment.
• Ability to plan, organize, and monitor daily operations, including scheduling routes, allocating staff, and managing resources effectively.
• Confident communication and interpersonal skills to work with team members, residents, and partners, including handling complaints and difficult conversations professionally.
• Competence in using basic IT systems and handheld devices for reporting, recording data, and managing work orders.
• Knowledge of relevant environmental and waste management regulations, or willingness to undertake training to acquire this knowledge.
• Proven ability to work on-site in all weather conditions and respond flexibly to operational demands, including occasional early starts or extended hours if required.
• Full UK driving licence (or equivalent) suitable for travelling between operational sites, where applicable.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and to delivering high-quality, resident-focused services.
• Relevant vocational qualification or apprenticeship in waste management, environmental services, or operations, or equivalent experience.