Regulation and Permitting Specialist

Job Description

The role

As an Environment Permitting Specialist, you’ll play a pivotal role in safeguarding United Utilities’ assets by shaping and driving environmental permitting policy and best practice across the organisation. As a recognised technical authority for water discharge permitting, you’ll ensure our processes are robust, compliant and fit for purpose, while supporting the Environmental Permitting Manager and stepping in as deputy when required. You’ll also represent the business externally, influencing regulatory discussions and helping to shape sector-wide standards that protect both the environment and our operations.

What you’ll be doing

• Providing expert technical guidance on environmental permits, including assessment, approval and annual review.
• Developing, managing and improving environmental permitting policies, strategies and supporting documentation.
• Acting as the central point of contact for water discharge permitting, ensuring consistency and compliance.
• Liaising with regulators and industry bodies (including the Environment Agency, WaterUK and UK Water Industry Research).
• Leading audits, identifying improvement actions and embedding continuous improvement across processes.
• Supporting and mentoring Environmental Permitting team members on complex technical matters.

What we’re looking for

• Strong knowledge of environmental permitting regulations and the wider legislative framework within the water industry.
• Experience across wastewater operations and associated industrial processes.
• Proven ability to develop strategies, policies and procedural documentation.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and external networking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership, resilience and a solutions-focused approach to problem solving.
• Highly analytical, self-motivated and results-driven, with a track record of delivering against objectives.

This role may not be eligible for sponsorship

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

Salary - Competitive Salary
Work Type - Hybrid
Job Location - Lingley Mere (UU), Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5 3LP
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.

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.