Trainee Leakage Inspector

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose. At Bristol Water, we've been serving generations of families since 1846. Ensuring people in our communities have access to healthy water is paramount, which is why we work around the clock testing our water hundreds of times a day. 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. Whether you're starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career. Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.

Job Role

The Leakage Inspector plays a critical role in reducing water loss across the network by proactively identifying, investigating, locating and quantifying leaks within both the public water supply network and private customer properties. The role supports operational performance, regulatory compliance and customer service objectives by using specialist leakage detection techniques, technology and data analysis to minimise non-revenue water and maintain network integrity.

Working independently and as part of a wider operational team, the postholder will investigate unreported leakage, support emergency and planned network operations, engage directly with customers and contribute to achieving company leakage reduction targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Leakage Detection and Investigation: Proactively identify and locate leaks and bursts across the network using specialist detection techniques. Carry out leakage surveys, night inspections, step testing, district validation, valve integrity testing and zero-pressure testing. Use acoustic and electronic leakage detection equipment to accurately pinpoint hidden leaks. Support the achievement of regulatory and business leakage targets through effective field investigations.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Install, program, deploy and retrieve flow and pressure data loggers. Analyse flow and pressure data to identify leakage patterns, anomalies and opportunities for further investigation. Produce accurate records and reports to support leakage planning and operational decision-making. Utilise GIS mapping systems, plans, network drawings and asset information to support investigations.
• Network Operations: Operate company valves, sluice valves and stop taps safely and effectively. Isolate network zones and sub-zones to quantify leakage and identify affected areas. Support network maintenance teams by locating difficult and complex leaks. Assist with waste water meter investigations and leakage quantification activities.
• Customer and Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the first point of contact for customers regarding private leakage issues. Conduct site visits and investigations on customer premises with appropriate permissions. Explain findings and provide advice on leakage resolution and water efficiency. Issue statutory notices and legal documentation in accordance with the Water Industry Act and company procedures. Promote and administer available leakage repair schemes, including subsidised repair initiatives where applicable.
• Trade and Exceptional Night Use Investigations: Identify and investigate trade users and exceptional night consumption. Monitor and analyse consumption patterns. Ensure unmetered or unusual water usage is reported through appropriate channels. Recommend ongoing monitoring where beneficial.
• Health, Safety and Compliance: Work safely in accordance with company policies, procedures and risk assessments. Operate within confined spaces, at height and in streetworks environments where authorised and competent. Ensure compliance with Water Regulations, environmental standards and industry legislation. Participate in standby and emergency response rotas as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential: Experience working within water supply, utilities, network operations or leakage management. Knowledge of water distribution systems and network operations. Understanding of leakage detection techniques and methodologies. Ability to interpret maps, plans and GIS information. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Competent IT user with experience of data collection and reporting systems. Excellent communication and customer service skills. Ability to work independently and make decisions in the field. Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable: Experience using leak noise correlators, acoustic loggers, electronic listening equipment, CAT & Genny equipment, flow and pressure logging systems. Knowledge of Water Industry legislation and regulations. Qualification in Water Operations or Utility Network Management.

Working Conditions: Field-based role covering a large geographical area. Outdoor working in all weather conditions. Participation in a 24/7 standby rota. Night working required on a rotational basis. Requirement to work in confined spaces and at height where appropriately trained. Frequent driving across the operational area.

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.