At a Glance
- Tasks: Support critical operational systems and develop engineering skills in a hands-on environment.
- Company: Join South West Water, ensuring safe drinking water across stunning landscapes.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a nationally recognised qualification and mentoring from experts.
- Other info: Future opportunities for permanent roles and further qualifications await successful candidates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and the environment through innovative technology.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including Maths and Science; interest in engineering is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 18500 - 25000 £ per year.
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.
Location
Cornwall & Devon
Salary
Competitive Apprentice Salary
Start Date
September 2026
Apprenticeship
Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician (with Electrical/Electronic HNC)
Application Deadline
What You’ll Be Doing
As part of our Digital & IT and Operational Technology teams, you’ll develop practical engineering and technical skills while supporting critical operational systems.
- Support the installation, configuration and commissioning of SCADA and control systems.
- Assist with the maintenance and improvement of OT systems, including PLCs, RTUs, telemetry and industrial networks.
- Work alongside engineers to diagnose faults and safely support live operational systems.
- Help configure alarms, data trending and reporting tools that support operational decision‑making.
- Contribute to OT cyber security activities, including system hardening, access management and backup processes.
- Support project delivery through testing, documentation and system handover activities.
- Learn how automation and control systems support water and wastewater treatment processes.
- Develop safe working practices aligned to health and safety, engineering and operational standards.
- Future Opportunities
Successful completion could lead to a permanent Operational Technology Engineering role, with opportunities to progress onto Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications.
- You’ll Be a Great Fit If You
- Enjoy understanding how technology, systems and physical assets work together.
- Have an interest in engineering, automation, electronics or IT.
- Like solving problems and learning through hands‑on experience.
- Communicate effectively and work well as part of a team.
- Have a strong focus on safety and following procedures.
- Are keen to develop new technical skills and knowledge.
- Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including
- Maths
- English
- A Science subject
- Evidence of Level 2 numeracy and literacy (GCSE or equivalent).
- Typically 48 UCAS points, including Maths or a science-based subject.
An interest or background in electrical or electronic engineering would be advantageous.
- Alternative Entry Routes
- Relevant work experience.
- Practical engineering or technical skills.
- Completion of an assessment or written task aligned to Level 3 standards.
- Full UK driving licence, or currently working towards obtaining one.
- Ability to meet relevant security and safety requirements.
Benefits
- Earn a nationally recognised Level 4 qualification and Electrical/Electronic HNC while earning a salary.
- Work with real‑world OT and SCADA systems that support critical infrastructure.
- Benefit from a carefully designed training programme aligned to industry engineering standards.
- Receive mentoring and support from experienced engineers and technical specialists.
- Gain exposure to operational support, engineering projects, cyber security activities and emerging technologies.
- Build a pathway into a fully qualified Operational Technology Engineering role.
- Play an important role in protecting public health, supporting communities and safeguarding the environment.
Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
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