Modern Apprenticeship 2025 – Network Maintenance (Dumfries)

Together we are Trusted to Serve Scotland.

Ready to own your future? At Scottish Water, our Modern Apprenticeships aren’t just about classroom learning. They’re designed to be hands-on, practical, and to equip you with real skills from the start. You’ll earn while you learn, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and build a meaningful career.

Whether you’re fresh out of school or considering a career change, we offer opportunities that challenge, support, and foster your growth.

Join our Water Response team in Dumfries from August 2025.

What does a Network Maintenance Modern Apprentice do?

As a Network Maintenance Modern Apprentice, you’ll help ensure Scotland’s water is safe and reliable. You’ll support vital repair and maintenance work across the water network, gaining practical experience in the field.

You’ll learn to identify and repair issues like burst pipes, faulty valves, and damaged stop taps. You’ll also assist with lead pipe replacements and collaborate with developers on meter repairs, new connections, and installations. Whether it’s scheduled maintenance or emergency call-outs, you’ll be part of the team ensuring access to clean, safe water daily.

Safety is paramount. You’ll be provided with PPE and trained in risk assessments and health and safety procedures, working in public spaces. You’ll also learn to report your work accurately, minimizing disruptions.

This is your opportunity to learn, develop, and play a vital role in protecting Scotland’s precious water resource—while earning a nationally recognised qualification and building a career you can be proud of.

Your Journey with Us

Our Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with professional qualifications. Supported by our Skills Academy team, each apprentice has a line manager and a personal assessor to guide their training and ensure high standards.

Over three years, you’ll be trained to become a fully qualified Network Maintenance Operator, gaining skills and confidence to make a real impact.

• Identify and repair faults in the water network
• Carry out planned maintenance on water mains and stop taps
• Support meter installations, repairs, and new water connections on development sites
• Work safely around live water supplies in streets, public areas, and homes
• Use specialist tools, vehicles, and equipment for repairs
• Conduct inspections and keep accurate records
• Always prioritize safety for yourself, your team, and the public

Much of your time will be outdoors. Scotland’s weather is unpredictable, but with appropriate clothing, you’ll be prepared. You’ll join a supportive, experienced team committed to your development, working towards a nationally recognised qualification. This is your chance to earn as you learn, contribute to vital services, and make a difference in Scotland’s water sector.

What’s in it for you?

We’ll challenge you to grow and will support you with top-tier training and development. You’ll qualify with a Water Industry SVQ at SCQF Level 6, and from your second year, you may pursue an HNC in Water Operations, supported by our trainers and assessors.

Earn as you learn. Starting salary is £22,072, with scheduled increases, an annual bonus, and a pension scheme.

Job security. Most apprentices stay with us after completing their training, with many advancing to leadership or technical roles.

You’ll provide an essential service to Scotland and your community, helping protect the environment. Plus, you’ll be part of a friendly team that values your success and makes work enjoyable.

What you’ll need

• You must be at least 17 years old by 1 August 2025.
• A responsible attitude towards work and learning is essential.
• Ideally, you’ll have five National 4 or 5s, including English, Maths, and Science, though these aren’t strict requirements.
• A driving license is useful, especially in remote areas. We can support you in obtaining your license if needed.

A note to women considering an apprenticeship

We’re proud to see more women join our programs and are committed to increasing diversity. Apprenticeships are for anyone curious, driven, and eager to learn. If that’s you, we encourage you to apply. Our supportive team will help you succeed and feel included, whether in the field, lab, or office.

The not-so-small print

Applications close at midnight on Sunday, 1 June 2025. An online assessment will take place in late May/early June, with interviews in June. We aim to start new apprentices on 11 August.

For more info, visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/apprentice.

Start your career in Scotland’s Water Sector

Interested in making a real difference? Explore roles across Scotland’s water sector at www.watercareers.scot.

Final notes

If you don’t meet all criteria, don’t hesitate to apply. Everyone learns and grows. We’re committed to accessibility and making reasonable adjustments. All employees must be Scottish taxpayers, and new hires need to move to Scotland within three months if not already here. Data from applicants not active in the last 12 months will be deleted automatically.

Questions? Contact us at SWRecruitment@ScottishWater.co.uk.

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