At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and operate water infrastructure while protecting the environment.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in sustainable water services.
- Benefits: Hands-on outdoor role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive culture that values your uniqueness.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on water sustainability in stunning landscapes.
- Qualifications: Practical skills and a commitment to safety and environmental standards.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and support farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
About the Role
As a Leatsperson, you will play a vital role in maintaining and operating South West Water's drinking water infrastructure and hydro-generation assets. Working across reservoirs, watercourses, intakes, and associated civil engineering structures, you will help ensure the safe, reliable, and sustainable delivery of water services while protecting the environment and supporting operational excellence. This is a hands-on outdoor role requiring practical skills, self-motivation, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Key Responsibilities
- Asset Maintenance & Operations
- Inspect, repair, and maintain watercourses, leats, sluices, reservoirs, and associated civil assets.
- Undertake maintenance using traditional and modern techniques involving stone, concrete, timber, metal, and granite structures.
- Conduct routine reservoir safety inspections and watercourse monitoring activities.
- Clear debris and vegetation from reservoirs, intakes, and operational assets to ensure efficient operation.
- Grounds & Estate Management
- Carry out tree felling, vegetation management, grass cutting, fencing, painting, and general estate maintenance.
- Perform building, masonry, and carpentry repairs as required.
- Maintain operational sites to ensure safety, compliance, and environmental standards are met.
- Plant & Equipment Operation
- Operate and maintain a range of fixed and mobile plant, including: Excavators and swing shovels, Dumper trucks, Pumps and concrete mixers, Grass-cutting machinery, Chainsaws, Trash rake cleaning equipment.
- Assist with repairs and maintenance of plant and machinery.
- Team & Operational Support
- Support the Hydro Maintenance Team when required.
- Assist with management of spares, stores, and equipment inventories.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues while being capable of operating independently across remote locations.
- Participate in standby arrangements when required.
Skills & Experience
- Essential: Experience working in a practical operational, maintenance, construction, utilities, agricultural, estates, or environmental environment.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Good understanding of health and safety best practices.
- Ability to work independently and manage workloads effectively.
- Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to maintenance activities.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 in General Estates Maintenance, Building Work, or a related discipline.
- Plant and machinery operating qualifications.
- Masonry and carpentry skills.
- Knowledge of environmental management practices.
- Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
- Local knowledge of Dartmoor and the surrounding area.
Qualifications
- Essential: Five GCSEs (or equivalent) including: English, Mathematics, Science, Grade C/4 or above.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 in a relevant discipline.
- Relevant plant and machinery certifications.
Working Conditions
- Predominantly outdoor role across Devon and Cornwall.
- Regular exposure to varying terrain and adverse weather conditions.
- Requirement to operate machinery and equipment safely.
- Standby participation may be required to support operational resilience.
Closing Date: 6th 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.
Leatsperson in Tavistock employer: All The Top Bananas
My Four Wheels is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding career as a Trainee Driving Instructor with flexible working hours and the potential to earn up to £50,000+ annually. With comprehensive training provided through our new Training Academy, employees benefit from ongoing support and resources, ensuring a fulfilling journey towards becoming a qualified instructor while enjoying the satisfaction of teaching locally in Westfield, Surrey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Leatsperson in Tavistock
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Leatsperson in Tavistock
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch All The Top Bananas's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at All The Top Bananas. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at All The Top Bananas
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at All The Top Bananas.
