At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Alarm Rationalisation Project across Sewage Pumping Stations and Treatment Works.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, competitive pension, health benefits, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and celebrates uniqueness.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental outcomes while developing your career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or equivalent in a technical discipline; strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ 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.
A unique opportunity has arisen for an Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant to support the delivery of a major rationalisation and optimisation programme across all Sewage Pumping Stations (SPS) and Sewage Treatment Works (STW). The role is being offered on a fixed-term (initial 1-year SPS phase, followed by 1-year STW phase), with potential for extension based on project outcomes and future rationalisation needs.
About this role:
The role will support the delivery of the Alarm Rationalisation Project across all Sewage Pumping Stations (SPS) and Sewage Treatment Works (STW). The role focuses on reviewing, reprioritising, labelling, and optimising configured alarms in the SCADA system in line with the Alarm Philosophy and EEMUA standards. The Technical Assistant will play a key role in data analysis, documentation, reporting, and engagement with operational teams to ensure alarm handling is simplified, consistent, and effective.
What you'll be doing:
- Data & Technical Support - Extract, review, and validate alarm configuration data using SCADA, Asset Data Portal, and other systems.
- Assist with the application of Alarm Prioritisation, Labelling, and Optimisation processes.
- Document configuration changes and ensure alignment with technical and operational standards.
- Reporting & Analysis - Use tools such as Power BI, Datamart, and Strumap to support performance tracking and reporting.
- Produce clear, accurate reports on alarm distribution, nuisance alarms, and action rates.
- Identify anomalies and escalate technical issues to the OT Technician or Alarm Optimisation Manager.
- Stakeholder Support - Provide administrative and technical support during workshops, site reviews, and training sessions.
- Liaise with Waste Area and Treatment/Pump Managers to gather site-specific information.
- Maintain clear communication with Control Room and field operations staff regarding rationalisation progress.
- Project Delivery - Support the delivery of rationalisation milestones across SPS and STW sites.
- Maintain accurate project documentation, databases, and audit trails.
- Contribute to lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives.
What we are looking for:
- HNC/HND or equivalent experience in a relevant technical discipline (e.g., Engineering, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Information Systems).
- Strong analytical and data management skills.
- Experience working with SCADA systems or similar industrial control systems.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and data visualisation tools.
- Excellent attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Share-save Scheme
- Various health benefits
- Wellbeing support programmes
- A range of Group Discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Financial support services
- And plenty more!
Join a forward-thinking team driving operational excellence and innovation in wastewater management. Apply today to support the Alarm Rationalisation Project and make a measurable impact on performance, reliability, and environmental outcomes.
Closing Date: 23rd September 2026. 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.
Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant in Exeter employer: South West Water Careers
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a collaborative work culture that fosters learning and development in the stunning landscapes of the South West. As an Asset Information Technician, you'll enjoy generous benefits including a competitive pension, health support programmes, and opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to vital infrastructure services that make a real difference in our communities. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and encourages you to bring your authentic self to work every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant in Exeter
✨Get Hands-On with Temporary Projects
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Let your friends and family know you're on the hunt for a temporary engineering role. Often, personal recommendations can get you in the door faster than any application. Share your goals and what you’re looking for through social media or casual conversations; you’d be surprised how many people might have the right connections!
✨Stay Sharp with Online Courses
While you're searching, keep those skills fresh! Take on some online courses related to your engineering field. Platforms like Coursera or edX can help you stay current and even get some certifications under your belt. This shows potential employers at South West Water Careers that you’re committed to growth, making you a more appealing candidate for temporary roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Versatile Engineering Skills:For a temporary engineering role like this one at South West Water Careers, make sure to showcase a broad range of your engineering skills. Talk about different projects you’ve undertaken, focusing on your problem-solving ability and adaptability—key traits for temporary positions that depend on quick integration into teams.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this is a temporary role, clarity is essential. In your cover letter, be upfront about your availability and how soon you can start. Employers like South West Water Careers want to know that you can hit the ground running, so don’t shy away from mentioning your flexibility!
Tailor Your CV to Showcase Relevant Experience:Make sure your CV is tailored to reflect the specific engineering projects relevant to the job. For instance, if you’ve worked on temporary contracts before or have engaged in diverse engineering processes, highlight these experiences to show how well-rounded you are.
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How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water Careers
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Engineering roles often involve assessing your technical expertise, so be prepared to delve into your core skills. Brush up on relevant software and tools you’ve used before, as well as any engineering principles that relate to the position at South West Water Careers. We want you to showcase your hands-on experience and problem-solving capabilities – it could be the difference between you and another candidate!
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Expect to tackle some practical scenarios during the interview. Whether it's a design challenge or a troubleshooting test, South West Water Careers might want to see how you approach real-world engineering problems. Think of specific examples from your past work where you had to think on your feet and be ready to walk your interviewers through your thought process.
✨Show Your Adaptability in Temporary Roles
Since this is a temporary position, it’s key to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to hit the ground running. Make sure to convey your eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to the team and the specific projects at South West Water Careers. We all know that temporary roles can be a bit of a whirlwind, so emphasise your quick learning skills and your approach to managing change.
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If you've worked on engineering projects that align with the role at South West Water Careers, make sure to bring them up! A portfolio can be a great way to illustrate your engineering prowess. Discuss the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the results achieved – this will give the interviewers a tangible idea of what you bring to the table.
