At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor and maintain sewage pumping stations while ensuring environmental compliance.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, health benefits, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and personal growth.
- 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 27523 - 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.
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.
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.
Catchment (SPS) Operator in Exeter employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Our team in Barnstaple enjoys competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and numerous health benefits, alongside opportunities for personal and professional growth within the thriving Pennon Group. Join us in making a positive impact on the environment while building a rewarding career in the water sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catchment (SPS) Operator in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research South West Water and their values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations to show how you fit into their mission of a greener future.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. This can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to the role. Think about your experience with wastewater management and how you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at South West Water.
We think you need these skills to ace Catchment (SPS) Operator in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Water:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for water services shine through! We want to see how much you care about keeping our beautiful South West flowing and how you can contribute to our mission.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Catchment Operator role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your ability to handle chemicals safely or your experience with maintenance tasks.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Sewage Pumping Station Operator inside out. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, like monitoring treated wastewater and handling chemicals safely. Brush up on relevant regulations and standards, so you can confidently discuss how you would ensure compliance during the interview.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. Think about situations where you had to respond to unexpected site conditions or equipment issues. Highlight your ability to think on your feet and how you prioritised safety and environmental protection in those scenarios.
✨Get Comfortable with Tech
Since you'll be using systems like iSCADA and various computer software, it’s a good idea to brush up on your tech skills. If you have experience with similar systems, be ready to talk about it. If not, show your willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies during the interview.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
This role involves liaising with various team members and responding to customer queries. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked effectively in teams before and how you handle communication, especially when dealing with customer concerns. Show that you value collaboration and can contribute to a positive team environment.
