At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and maintain wastewater treatment works while ensuring compliance and environmental protection.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, health benefits, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for progression and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and Science; full UK driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 27522 - 34460 £ 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 are proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future.
We are currently recruiting a Catchment Operator to join our Treatment team in Newton Abbot on a full-time, permanent basis. You will receive a competitive salary of £27,522 per annum with the opportunity to enter our company progression scheme. Levels range from 1 to 5 with a salary of up to £34,460 at Level 5. In addition to this, you will also receive a salary uplift allowance for taking part in the standby rota/weekend working.
Core hours are 37 per week with a 1 in 5 week standby and call out/weekend working rota, once training is complete. As Catchment Operator, you will operate and maintain multiple Wastewater Treatment works within the area.
What you'll be doing:
- Carrying out on-site monitoring and maintenance to ensure effective site operation and that compliance requirements are maintained.
- Responding effectively to site conditions and monitoring information that ensure compliance is maintained and the environment is protected.
- Storing and handling chemicals in accordance with COSHH, QMS Procedures and relevant Health and Safety standards.
- Using the iSCADA control system.
- Adhering to timely schedules, business rules, and procedures.
- Liaising with other team members and areas of the business to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
- Dealing effectively with customer queries when directly approached and passing information up the management line where appropriate.
- A flexible working pattern is in operation which includes undertaking standby and callouts and working evenings and weekends on a rota basis.
- Travelling throughout the region and assisting other zones as necessary.
What we're looking for:
- Previous experience within a practical role would be beneficial, however our company induction will provide you with all the training you need to get started!
- 5 GCSEs or equivalent in Maths, English and a Science subject.
- Full UK Driving License.
- Proficient in Microsoft packages.
- Happy working outside in all conditions.
What's in it for you:
- 23 days starting 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.
Closing Date: 17th April 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 every day. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
- Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
Locations
Weekend Operative in Devon, Newton Abbot employer: South West Water
South West Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can contribute to vital water services while enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of the South West. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive salaries, and a range of benefits including a generous holiday allowance and wellbeing support, we foster a culture of inclusion and diversity that empowers you to thrive in your career. Join us as a Weekend Operative and be part of our mission towards a greener future, with opportunities for progression and personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Weekend Operative in Devon, Newton Abbot
✨Get Involved in Local Environmental Initiatives
Dive into your local environmental scenes, like community clean-up projects or eco-focused events. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but it's a surefire way to showcase your passion and skills in environmental engineering tech.
✨Join Industry-Specific Organisations
Check out organisations like the Institution of Environmental Engineers for networking opportunities and resources. They often host events and seminars that can help us connect with key players in the industry, including potential employers like South West Water.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Passion
Create a portfolio that highlights any relevant projects, whether it's coursework, internships, or personal initiatives. Share this online, perhaps even on platforms like GitHub or your own website, to grab the attention of hiring managers looking for talent like us.
✨Utilise Environmental Job Boards
Take advantage of niche job boards dedicated to environmental careers. Sites like Green Jobs, Environmental Career and EcoJobs often feature openings from companies like South West Water and can help us land that full-time gig.
We think you need these skills to ace Weekend Operative in Devon, Newton Abbot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for a role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to highlight your technical skills like CAD software proficiency, data analysis, or modelling techniques. These are essential for the job and should stand out in your CV and cover letter, showing how you can contribute to projects at South West Water.
Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability:In this field, showcasing your passion for sustainability and environmental protection can set you apart. Include any relevant projects, volunteer experience, or courses that underline your commitment to these causes. South West Water will appreciate candidates who genuinely care about making a difference.
Tailor Your Application to the Role:Don't just send a generic CV and cover letter. Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Weekend Operative at South West Water. Highlight experiences that align directly with the job description and give concrete examples of your work to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a full-time position.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have certifications related to environmental engineering or technology, like LEED Accreditation or any relevant software certifications, make sure to mention them. These qualifications can boost your application and show that you’re serious about your professional development in this competitive field.
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Brush Up on Environmental Regulations
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest environmental regulations and standards. In an environmental engineering tech role at South West Water, you might be asked specific questions about compliance measures, so understanding these will definitely give you an edge.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your proficiency with relevant tools and software, such as AutoCAD or GIS. You might be given a practical problem to solve during the interview, so it’s a great idea to brush up on these skills and perhaps even bring a portfolio of your projects to showcase your technical prowess.
✨Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability
In a full-time role, employers are looking for commitment and enthusiasm. Share your experiences, studies, or projects that reflect your passion for environmental sustainability. This will show South West Water that you're not just qualified but genuinely invested in the field.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Be ready for behavioural questions that assess how you handle teamwork, conflict, and project management. Think of examples from your studies or practical experiences where you tackled challenges effectively, showcasing both your technical and interpersonal skills.
