Interim Team Leader – Waste & Recycling

Interim Team Leader – Waste & Recycling Location: Uttlesford District Contract Type: Full-Time, Temporary Hours: 37 hours per week Contract Length: Initial 3 months (with potential to extend and temp-to-perm opportunities) Pay Rate: £170.00 PAYE (negotiable depending on experience) Start Date: Monday 5 January 2026 Working Arrangement: On-site – 4 days per week Minerva Recruitment is recruiting on behalf of Uttlesford District Council for an experienced Interim Waste & Recycling Team Leader to join their Environmental Services team on a full-time, temporary basis. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong operational knowledge, people management skills, and a commitment to delivering efficient, safe, and high-quality waste and recycling services across the district. Role The successful candidate will lead and coordinate the delivery of waste and recycling services, ensuring operations are carried out efficiently, safely, and in line with legislative requirements. You will be responsible for leading staff, supporting service delivery, and contributing to improvements that enhance the local environment. Key Responsibilities Lead, supervise, organise, support, and advise operational staff to deliver an effective service Ensure full compliance with health and safety requirements, including the correct use of PPE Work closely with Service Coordinators to programme planned works and respond to ad-hoc requests Allocate resources effectively to maximise productivity and service outcomes Carry out site visits to assess staffing requirements and prepare costings for rechargeable works Liaise with Transport and Workshop Managers to ensure all drivers are appropriately licensed and assessed Complete and maintain accurate administrative records and operational documentation Support the wider Environmental Services team, providing cover during annual leave, sickness, and peak periodsKnowledge & Experience Strong knowledge of waste and recycling service requirements and relevant legislation Good understanding of health and safety obligations within an operational environment Geographical knowledge of the Uttlesford district or ability to develop this quickly Significant experience managing waste management operations Proven experience leading or supervising operational teamsSkills & Attributes Self-motivated with the ability to motivate and lead others without direct supervision Strong verbal and written communication skills Excellent organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines Practical understanding of vehicle and equipment maintenance Professional, firm, and customer-focused approach to service deliveryQualifications & Training Full UK driving licence with Category B+E entitlement IOSH qualification (or willingness to undertake training) Competent IT skills, including Outlook, Teams, Word, and ExcelWhy Apply? Competitive daily rates Opportunity to work within a respected local authority Potential contract extension and temp-to-perm opportunities Leadership role with real operational impact To apply or for further information, please contact Minerva Recruitment. We look forward to hearing from experienced waste and recycling professionals seeking their next interim leadership opportunity