At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and operate drinking water infrastructure while protecting the environment.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector with a green mission.
- Benefits: Hands-on outdoor role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and be part of a culture that values uniqueness.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable water services in stunning landscapes.
- Qualifications: Practical experience in maintenance or environmental roles; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ 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. 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.
About the Role
As a Leatsperson, you will play a vital role in maintaining and operating South West Water's drinking water infrastructure and hydro-generation assets. Working across reservoirs, watercourses, intakes, and associated civil engineering structures, you will help ensure the safe, reliable, and sustainable delivery of water services while protecting the environment and supporting operational excellence. This is a hands-on outdoor role requiring practical skills, self-motivation, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Key Responsibilities
- Asset Maintenance & Operations
- Inspect, repair, and maintain watercourses, leats, sluices, reservoirs, and associated civil assets.
- Undertake maintenance using traditional and modern techniques involving stone, concrete, timber, metal, and granite structures.
- Conduct routine reservoir safety inspections and watercourse monitoring activities.
- Clear debris and vegetation from reservoirs, intakes, and operational assets to ensure efficient operation.
- Grounds & Estate Management
- Carry out tree felling, vegetation management, grass cutting, fencing, painting, and general estate maintenance.
- Perform building, masonry, and carpentry repairs as required.
- Maintain operational sites to ensure safety, compliance, and environmental standards are met.
- Plant & Equipment Operation
- Operate and maintain a range of fixed and mobile plant, including excavators, dumper trucks, pumps, concrete mixers, grass-cutting machinery, chainsaws, and trash rake cleaning equipment.
- Assist with repairs and maintenance of plant and machinery.
- Team & Operational Support
- Support the Hydro Maintenance Team when required.
- Assist with management of spares, stores, and equipment inventories.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues while being capable of operating independently across remote locations.
- Participate in standby arrangements when required.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- Experience working in a practical operational, maintenance, construction, utilities, agricultural, estates, or environmental environment.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Good understanding of health and safety best practices.
- Ability to work independently and manage workloads effectively.
- Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to maintenance activities.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 in General Estates Maintenance, Building Work, or a related discipline.
- Plant and machinery operating qualifications.
- Masonry and carpentry skills.
- Knowledge of environmental management practices.
- Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
- Local knowledge of Dartmoor and the surrounding area.
Qualifications
Essential
- Five GCSEs (or equivalent) including English, Mathematics, and Science Grade C/4 or above.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 in a relevant discipline.
- Relevant plant and machinery certifications.
Working Conditions
Predominantly outdoor role across Devon and Cornwall. Regular exposure to varying terrain and adverse weather conditions. Requirement to operate machinery and equipment safely. Standby participation may be required to support operational resilience.
Closing Date: 6th Aug 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.
Leatsperson in Devon employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and sustainability. Our employees benefit from opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside the chance to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives in one of the UK's most beautiful regions. Join us in making a difference while enjoying a fulfilling career in the water sector.
