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. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting 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.
Location: Exeter
Salary: £27,523 per annum + standby/weekend working allowance
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Enjoy working outdoors, solving problems and making a tangible impact every day?
Joining us on a full-time, permanent basis. You will receive a competitive salary of £27,536 per annum with the opportunity to enter our company progression scheme. Levels range from 1 to 5 with a salary of up to £36,010 at Level 5. In addition to this, you will also receive a salary uplift allowance for taking part in the standby rota.
Core hours are 37 per week with a 1 in 5 week standby and call out rota, once training is complete.
As Catchment Operator within our Wastewater Networks team, you will be responsible for inspecting, maintaining and improving the sewerage network. This role is customer facing.
What you'll be doing:
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Rapid response to and resolution of pollution and flooding events
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Blockage clearance and investigation of underlying causes
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CCTV survey of pipework and asset investigation
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Maintenance of small sewage pumping stations and CSOs
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Ensure Risk Assessments and Task Safety Instructions for work activity are adhered to and continually improved
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Using logic and initiative to assess on site problems and find an appropriate solution
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Ensuring all work completed provides the highest level of service to the customer, dealing with sensitive issues in a calm and reassuring manner and approaching all situations in a polite, friendly and approachable manner
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Provide resolution or escalate issues to management where appropriate
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Respond effectively to site conditions and monitoring information to ensure that compliance with environmental regulations is maintained
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Carry out first line maintenance on instruments & mechanical equipment
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Working independently using a single-man operated jetting vehicles, as well as working as an effective part of a team tackling larger issues support decision making and performance tracking across the team
What we are looking for:
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5 GCSEs or equivalent in Maths, English and a Science subject
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Full UK Driving License
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Proficient in Microsoft packages
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Happy working outside in all conditions
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to build a rewarding long-term career while making a real difference to the communities and environment we serve. As a Catchment Operator, you'll play a vital role in delivering an essential public service, ensuring wastewater is treated safely and efficiently to help protect local rivers, coastlines and the natural environment. Whether you're bringing experience from a practical outdoor role or looking for a new career path, we'll provide the training and support you need to succeed. With a clear progression structure, ongoing development opportunities and the chance to increase your salary as your skills and responsibilities grow, this is a role where you can develop your future while helping to protect the environment for generations to come.
At South West Water, we believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our Catchment Operator you'll enjoy:
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Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
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Bonus Scheme – Rewarding your performance
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Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
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Healthcare Benefits – Access to employee assistance programs
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Professional Development – Support for career growth with training opportunities
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Employee Discounts – On various products and services
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Generous Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement
Closing Date: 13th October 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 everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
Catchment Operator 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.
