At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Environmental Monitoring Technician, tackling water pollution and conducting fieldwork.
- Company: South West Water provides high-quality drinking water and wastewater services in the beautiful South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, training opportunities, a competitive pension, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of a company committed to reaching net-zero by 2030 and fostering inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a sustainable impact while working outdoors in a diverse and innovative team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Biological or Environmental Sciences preferred; experience in scientific environments is essential.
The predicted salary is between 23800 - 25800 € per year.
At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate. We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area. And we have huge ambitions. Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come. So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater.
Are you looking for a role where your scientific skills set can be applied to make a sustainable difference? We currently have an opportunity available for an Environmental Monitoring Technician based in Exeter, Devon. Joining us on a Permanent, full time basis, you will receive a competitive annual salary of £27,873 - £30,103 plus excellent benefits.
About the role
As our Environmental Monitoring Technician, you will respond to potential water pollutions carrying out various onsite sampling and monitoring duties including the reporting of the information back to the central teams as per procedures. The majority of the role involves being outside in all weather conditions and can be physically demanding having to walk varying distances, carrying equipment and working in and around water therefore an enthusiasm for the outdoors is essential.
What you’ll be doing:
- Attending and investigating water pollution incidents throughout the Devon area
- Undertaking field monitoring work including water quality measurements and sampling
- Undertaking desk-based data entry after collecting data in the field
- Writing technical reports in response to water pollution incidents, time limited in accordance with procedural requirements
- Undertaking a planned work programme when not attending pollution incidents
- Maintaining all equipment for site and maintain cleanliness of vehicle to a high standard and inform line manager if new equipment is needed
- Provision of accurate and timely information to line management
- Supporting the team performance by sharing knowledge and best practices at all levels
- Attending regular team meetings and contribute where appropriate
- Participating in an out of hours pollution response rota
What we are looking for:
- Preferably educated to degree level in a Biological or Environmental Sciences discipline and demonstrate an understanding of water chemistry and the indicative parameters
- Experience of working within a scientific environment such as scientific fieldwork, laboratory analysis and/or environmental compliance is essential
- Ideally possessing experience of aquatic macro-invertebrate sampling and aquatic macro-invertebrate identification skills to Family level
- Strong analytical and numerical skills are essential and be competent with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- Possess a full, clean, UK driving licence
- An enthusiasm for working outdoors is essential
- Be able to work independently and as part of a team, following precise protocols
- Motivated, friendly and confident interacting with different parties
- An understanding of the role of regulators such as the Environment Agency
What’s in it for you:
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
- Scientific Progression Scheme
- A discretionary Bonus
- Opportunities for training and development
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Share-save Scheme
- Various health benefits
- Wellbeing support programmes
- A range of Group Discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Financial support services
Closing Date: Tuesday 15th July 2025
If you are looking for a new challenge, please click apply now to be considered as our Environmental Monitoring Technician - we look forward to receiving your application. 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.
Environmental Monitoring Technician in Exeter employer: South West Water Limited
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and personal growth. As an Environmental Monitoring Technician in Exeter, you will not only contribute to vital environmental initiatives but also benefit from a supportive culture that values diversity and offers extensive training opportunities. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, we are dedicated to building a sustainable future together.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Environmental Monitoring Technician in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local water bodies and environmental issues in the Devon area. Understanding the specific challenges faced by these ecosystems will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the environmental sector, especially those who work in water quality monitoring or pollution response. Attend local events or join relevant online forums to connect with others and gain insights into the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your technical report writing skills. Since the role involves writing reports in response to pollution incidents, being able to clearly and concisely communicate your findings will be crucial. Consider practicing with sample data or past incidents.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for outdoor work during your interactions with the team. Whether it's through informal conversations or during networking events, expressing your passion for fieldwork and environmental conservation can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Environmental Monitoring Technician in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in environmental sciences, fieldwork, and any specific skills mentioned in the job description, such as water quality measurements and data analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for working outdoors and your commitment to sustainability. Mention how your background aligns with South West Water's goals, particularly their ambition to reach net-zero by 2030.
Highlight Technical Skills:Emphasise your analytical and numerical skills, as well as your proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. If you have experience with aquatic macro-invertebrate sampling, make sure to include that as well.
Showcase Teamwork and Communication:Demonstrate your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with different parties in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water Limited
✨Show Your Passion for the Outdoors
Since the role involves working outside in various weather conditions, it's crucial to express your enthusiasm for outdoor work. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your love for nature and environmental conservation.
✨Demonstrate Your Scientific Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss your understanding of water chemistry and environmental sciences. Brush up on key concepts and be ready to explain how your academic background applies to the role of an Environmental Monitoring Technician.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have experience in scientific fieldwork or laboratory analysis, make sure to mention it. Discuss specific projects or tasks you've completed that relate to water quality measurements or pollution incident investigations.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to aquatic macro-invertebrate sampling and identification. Review the relevant techniques and be ready to explain how you would approach these tasks in the field.