At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and repair vital plant and process control systems for safe and efficient operations.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonuses, flexible working, and healthcare benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on essential services while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and Science; relevant qualifications in industrial control.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ 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. We’re proud to be part of the Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals include reducing our carbon footprint, planting trees, restoring peatlands and improving water quality and wildlife. A career here offers opportunities to shape your own future. Located in Exeter HQ or Barnstaple, this full‑time, permanent role offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits. Join our team to work with cutting‑edge OT and contribute to essential services that support our communities every day.
The Role
As an Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer, you’ll maintain and repair vital plant and process control systems, ensuring our operations run safely, efficiently, and reliably by combining hands‑on technical expertise with problem‑solving excellence. You’ll handle planned maintenance, rapid response troubleshooting, and participate in a 24/7 standby rota.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Deliver planned and proactive maintenance on instrumentation and control systems to enhance reliability and performance
- Respond quickly to operational issues, diagnosing and resolving complex faults on site
- Participate in a 24/7 standby rota to provide out‑of‑hours support
- Collaborate with mechanical and electrical teams to prioritise and coordinate maintenance activities
- Investigate root causes of equipment failures and drive effective solutions
- Support the development and standardisation of Industrial Control Systems in line with legislation (e.g., UK NIS Directive)
- Manage firmware, software updates, patching, and system rollouts in line with best practice
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum of 5 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above), including Maths, English, and Science (or equivalent)
- A relevant apprenticeship or qualification in industrial control, instrumentation, or a similar field
- Strong working knowledge of PLC platforms
- Experience with process control systems and ELV/LV electrical systems
- Confident IT user with a strong technical mindset
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the work area (company vehicle provided)
- Ability to successfully obtain UK Government Security Clearance (SC)
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and skills
- Annual bonus scheme recognising company performance
- Pension scheme
- Flexible working options, including hybrid working where possible
- Healthcare benefits and employee assistance programs
- Employee discounts on various products and services
- Annual leave entitlement
Closing date: 27th May 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. Please 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.
Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer in Exeter employer: Pennon Group Plc
South West Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a real impact on the community by ensuring safe and reliable water services. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive salaries, and a range of benefits including flexible working options and healthcare support, you'll thrive in a culture that values innovation and sustainability. Join us in Exeter or Barnstaple to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to shaping a greener future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend local events, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their goals around sustainability and community support, so you can show how your skills align with their mission. We want to see your passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills! Brush up on your knowledge of PLC platforms and process control systems. Being able to demonstrate your hands-on expertise during interviews will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team at South West Water.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer role. Highlight your hands-on technical expertise and problem-solving abilities, as these are key for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about working with South West Water. Share specific examples of how you've tackled similar challenges in the past and how you can contribute to our goals.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your GCSEs and any relevant qualifications or apprenticeships. We want to see your strong foundation in industrial control and instrumentation, so make it easy for us to spot!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pennon Group Plc
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLC platforms and process control systems. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience where you've successfully diagnosed and resolved complex faults. This will show that you have the hands-on technical expertise they’re looking for.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share instances where you've tackled operational issues head-on. Think about how you approached troubleshooting and what solutions you implemented. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and act quickly, which is crucial for this role.
✨Understand Their Goals
Familiarise yourself with South West Water's commitment to sustainability and improving water quality. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their mission of reducing carbon footprints and enhancing community services. This shows you’re not just interested in the job, but also in their values.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork Questions
Since collaboration with mechanical and electrical teams is key, prepare for questions about teamwork. Think of examples where you’ve worked effectively with others to prioritise and coordinate maintenance activities. Highlighting your collaborative spirit will resonate well with them.
