Projects and Operations Engineer

ABOUT US

S. Norton is a leading British metals recycler playing a key role in the global circular economy for raw materials. We recycle over 1.5m tonnes of waste metals every year, supplying customers across the world from small refineries to large multinational organisations.

We have developed sorting and separation processes to allow us to recycle ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals from a range of sources such as end of life vehicles, light iron and waste electrical and electronic goods (WEEE). We produce a range of co-products such as recycled polymers, fuels and aggregates, ensuring these materials are reused and diverted from landfill.

Weve been in business for more than 60 years and were continuing to grow, acquiring new sites and developing and investing in our operations across the UK while we work to achieve our aim of zero waste.

Role:

• You be an Operations Engineer focusing on continuous improvement projects or as a Project Engineer within the central Projects and Engineering team.
• Participate in the Engineering Development Program, gaining exposure across various departments and both plastics and metals recycling divisions.
• Work towards achieving chartership status through diverse experiences and dedicated mentorship.
• Contribute to developing and delivering the group's portfolio of engineering projects.

Responsibilities:

• Safety and Compliance:

• Prioritise safety in all activities, adhering to relevant standards and protocols.
• Collaborate with compliance teams to ensure all legal, safety, and environmental regulations are met during project delivery.

• Identify and evaluate new technologies and systems to address complex separation challenges.
• Optimise existing processes to improve plant availability, product quality, recovery rates, and reduce operating costs.

• Develop comprehensive project plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Lead feasibility studies, business case appraisals, and project reviews.
• Oversee projects from tendering through design, construction, commissioning, and handover.
• Coordinate with operations and maintenance teams to minimise downtime during installations.
• Manage contractors, ensuring compliance with safety systems and effective resource allocation.
• Monitor and report on budgets, costs, schedules, and project risks.

• Create and implement commissioning plans in collaboration with site teams to ensure smooth transitions.

• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks, maintaining updated risk registers.
• Utilise change management systems effectively across projects and operational sites.

• Identify and implement improvement initiatives, monitoring outcomes and benefits.
• Develop and roll out new operational and project-related procedures and systems.

• Attend project and operations meetings, providing regular updates.
• Maintain accurate document control and records.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
• Travel to various sites and equipment trials domestically and internationally as required.

About you:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related disciplines (minimum lower second-class degree).
• Experience in industries such as recycling, heavy engineering, steel, mining, or quarrying (preferred but not essential).
• Background in project management, process engineering, or operations roles.
• Experience managing small teams.
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in CAD, project management software, and MS365 suite (including Excel and Power BI).
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels.
• Proactive, adaptable, and committed to safety and professional ethics.

• Desirable:

• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with quality assurance and control processes.

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