At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor and maintain sewage pumping stations to ensure effective operation and environmental compliance.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, health benefits, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and a culture of inclusion.
- 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 36011 - 36011 £ 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. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and support farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
We're currently recruiting a Sewage Pumping Station Operator to join our team based in Barnstaple. You will join us on a permanent contract and in return, you will receive a competitive salary of £27,523 - £36,011 per annum. Hours are 37 per week, with a 1 in 5 week standby rota once training is complete.
As a Sewage Pumping Station Operator, you will be responsible for carrying out reactive and planned work as scheduled to support the delivery of the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the Sewage Pumping Stations.
What you'll be doing:
- Carrying out on-site monitoring of treated wastewater and associated plant to ensure effective site operation and that compliance requirements are maintained.
- Responding effectively to site conditions and instrument monitoring information that ensures compliance is maintained and the environment is protected.
- Storing and handling chemicals in accordance with COSHH, QMS Procedures and relevant Health and Safety standards.
- Carrying out first-line maintenance on instruments & mechanical equipment.
- Carrying out calibration of equipment in order to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- Using the iSCADA control system, PCs and other computer hardware and software in order to carry out the role effectively.
- Carrying out grounds maintenance.
- Providing accurate and timely feedback of activities completed.
- Adhering to schedules, business rules, and procedures.
- Liaising with Area Manager, Catchment Pilot and Technical Assistants to ensure schedules are optimised.
- Liaising with Catchment Operators to carry out any required duties.
- Liaising with Area Manager, Energy Maintenance, and other members of the team to ensure site operation and asset maintenance is optimised.
- Dealing effectively with customer queries when directly approached and passing information up the management line where appropriate.
- Regular sampling and testing of internal and external Tanker deliveries and critical site control points on the Treatment process.
What we are looking for:
- 5 GCSE's 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:
- 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.
Closing Date: 19th June 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
Catchment (SPS) Operator in Devon, Plymouth employer: South West Water
South West Water is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the picturesque setting of Barnstaple. With a strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement, employees benefit from generous holiday allowances, competitive pensions, and various health and wellbeing support programmes. The company fosters a culture of inclusion and personal growth, empowering you to shape your career while contributing to a greener future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catchment (SPS) Operator in Devon, Plymouth
✨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 Catchment (SPS) Operator in Devon, Plymouth
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 Catchment (SPS) Operator 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.
