Technical and Operational Lead (BEWISe)

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
The School of Engineering at Newcastle University is seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to lead the technical operation and development of the Biological Engineering: Wastewater Innovation at Scale (BEWISe) facility at Birtley. This pioneering European-first research wastewater pilot facility supports both academic and industrial users, delivering scientifically rigorous experimentation at scale.

The facility is part of the Environmental Engineering group within the Discipline of Civil and Geospatial Engineering, working alongside other engineering groups and their technical teams. Our highly skilled technical colleagues play a vital role in supporting internationally recognised teaching and research activities. The University employs approximately 75 technicians employed across campus and off-site facilities in the Northeast of England, spanning a broad range of disciplines and contributing directly to Newcastle University’s global impact.

In this role, you will be responsible for the technical and operational management of the BEWISe facility, including its equipment, infrastructure, and experimental programmes, ensuring safe, compliant, and high-quality delivery of research and teaching activities. You will liaise with internal and external stakeholders, oversee health and safety, manage safety-critical systems, and support strategic development of the facility. You will work closely with Newcastle University academics, postgraduate and undergraduate students, and partners from Northumbrian Water Ltd, providing technical expertise in experimental design, laboratory analyses, and data acquisition.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong technical and operational leadership experience in a research or industrial laboratory environment.
• Expertise in managing complex facilities, analytical instrumentation, and infrastructure.
• Excellent understanding of health and safety regulations, laboratory compliance, and risk management.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management, including international collaboration.
• Flexibility and innovation to support cutting-edge research and high-value teaching programmes.

You will report to the facilities Academic Lead and the Technical Operations Manager and will lead key initiatives across the discipline and the wider School of Engineering.

This is a unique opportunity to manage a world-class research facility, contributing to innovative projects with both academic and industrial partners, and shaping the future of wastewater research and technical services.

We welcome applications from any candidates seeking a rewarding and progressive career in higher education and facility management. The University is an exciting and dynamic place to work, dedicated to world-leading education and research. Benefits include excellent pension; flexible working options; 42 days holiday (including public holidays and 4 University closure days); discounted travel for the Metro and local bus services; and discounts for national retailers.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Russell Davenport by e-mail at Russell.davenport@ncl.ac.uk, also copying in Debbie Wilde at Debbie.wilde@ncl.ac.uk.

To apply please upload a CV and cover letter outlining how you meet the criteria in the ‘Person Specification’ section of the job description.

*Please note this job does require a full UK driving license, as part of onboarding occupational health will conduct a health surveillance. The offsite site location is remote and cannot be accessed by public transport, this role will regularly travel between site and main campus, driving therefore is deemed an essential requirement.

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