Graduate Program

Grad Bay Northampton, England, United Kingdom

We are seeking a Waste Operations Intern to support improvements and development across multiple Household Waste and Recycling Centre (HWRC) contracts in the region. The role involves assisting with AI integration, contract reporting and compliance, the expansion of reuse and repair initiatives, and ensuring operational and regulatory standards are maintained.

You will work closely with the Area Manager to monitor financial performance, support operational teams, and deliver excellent service on behalf of local authority partners, while maintaining high standards of health, safety, and environmental responsibility.

• Understand and support compliance with health, safety, environment, and quality (HSEQ) policies.
• Gain insight into contractual and divisional KPIs, assisting in initiatives to improve performance and profitability.
• Support cultural and operational development across contracts.
• Assist in the integration of AI tools to improve contract efficiency.
• Review local authority waste strategies to align operational focus with collaborative initiatives.
• Support contract reporting and monitor social value delivery.
• Contribute to the development of reuse, repair, and sustainability initiatives across the contracts.

• Assist operational teams in maintaining compliance with management systems, risk assessments, and safe working practices.
• Support training and development of operational staff to meet regulatory requirements.
• Monitor operational performance against revenue and budget targets.
• Support HR and staff engagement activities, including absence management and culture surveys.
• Liaise with environmental and health & safety teams to ensure compliance with permits, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Identify and share best practices across the contracts.

• Completion of relevant competency modules and technical training.
• Support and guidance from senior operational and management staff.
• Exposure to contract management, operational leadership, and community-focused initiatives.

• Commercial awareness and numeracy skills.
• Strong motivation, resilience, and determination to achieve personal and team objectives.
• Client-focused mindset with excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills.
• Ability to develop others, work collaboratively, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Capable of contributing to wider business strategy and improvement initiatives.
• Full UK driving licence; access to own transport is advantageous.