Leakage Technician (Devon) in Exeter

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose. South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK's most stunning landscapes. We're proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future.

Job Purpose

The Leakage Technician across the Devon area is responsible for reducing water leakage across the potable water network through proactive leak detection activities and investigation of potential leaks identified by Leakage Detectors. The role involves accurately locating and pinpointing leakage positions, gathering detailed information, and ensuring repair teams have the information required to carry out prompt and effective repairs.

Key Accountabilities

• Leakage Reduction
  • Reduce leakage across the potable water network through proactive detection and investigation activities.
  • Locate, identify, and accurately pinpoint leaks using industry-standard techniques and equipment.
  • Trace the routes of water mains, service pipes, and associated fittings.
  • Support leakage management programmes and network performance initiatives.
• Network Investigation & Maintenance
  • Undertake step testing activities as part of a wider operational team.
  • Perform basic water meter maintenance activities.
  • Conduct valve operation activities where required.
  • Collect and record accurate data relating to leakage investigations and network assets.
• Customer & Stakeholder Service
  • Attend customer appointments and enquiries relating to leakage issues.
  • Identify customer-side leakage problems and provide guidance regarding repair responsibilities.
  • Ensure all customer interactions are conducted professionally and in line with company procedures.
• Technical Support & Development
  • Mentor Leakage Detectors and support the sharing of best practice.
  • Utilise leakage detection equipment and modern leakage control techniques effectively.
  • Accurately update records through corporate systems and digital applications.
• Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Carry out all duties in accordance with health, safety, environmental, and company policies.
  • Apply knowledge of water hygiene, manual handling, COSHH, confined space awareness, and safe working practices.
  • Support company objectives and undertake any other reasonable duties required by the business.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Essential Qualifications & Certifications
  • Minimum of 5 GCSEs (or equivalent), including: Mathematics, English, Science.
  • National Water Hygiene Certificate.
  • NRSWA Unit 2.
  • Full UK Driving Licence.
• Essential Knowledge
  • Manual Handling awareness.
  • COSHH awareness.
  • Confined Space awareness.
  • Basic First Aid.
  • Valve Operations.
  • General Health & Safety knowledge.
• Technical Skills
  • Advanced use of StruMap or equivalent mapping systems.
  • Microsoft Office proficiency.
  • Ability to use corporate and operational IT systems.
  • Strong map-reading skills.
  • Ability to interpret network data and asset information.
  • Accurate data capture and reporting skills.
• Behavioural Competencies
  • Strong problem-solving and investigative skills.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Effective communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Commitment to health, safety, and compliance.
  • Willingness to learn and develop through structured training programmes.
  • Accountability and ownership of tasks from investigation through to repair referral.

Career Development

This role is aligned to a structured progression pathway that enables employees to develop the technical skills, knowledge, and competencies required to become fully competent Leakage Technicians through ongoing training, mentoring, and practical experience.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays.
• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• Competitive contributory pension.
• Sharesave scheme.
• Health and wellbeing benefits.
• Employee assistance and wellbeing support programmes.
• Group discount schemes.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Financial support services.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities.
• Long-term career progression within a leading South West employer.

Please also be aware that this role may involve some night work and participation in a standby rota.

Closing Date: 10th Aug 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.

Be yourself, we like it that way. Together, we will build a culture of belonging, where inclusion is instinctive. Diversity is our strength and a reflection of our communities. We care, we value everyone, we celebrate uniqueness.

Our core values, which are essential to our success, are:

• Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
• Be You - We want you to bring your best every day. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
• Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.