At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and operate water supply assets in stunning landscapes.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days annual leave, competitive pension, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the environment while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Practical experience in maintenance or construction; GCSEs required.
The predicted salary is between 22950 - 28050 £ 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
At South West Water, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable drinking water to the communities we serve while protecting the natural environment around us. As a Leatsperson, you will play a vital role in maintaining and operating the civil assets that support our water supply and hydro-generation infrastructure across Devon and Cornwall.
Working across some of the South West's most beautiful landscapes, you'll use traditional and modern maintenance techniques to ensure watercourses, reservoirs, intakes and associated infrastructure remain safe, operational and compliant. This is a practical, outdoor role suited to someone who enjoys hands-on work, problem solving and working independently while contributing to a wider team.
What You'll Be Doing
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Maintaining and repairing watercourses, leats, sluices and associated assets using a variety of materials including stone, concrete, timber, metal and granite.
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Carrying out reservoir safety inspections, watercourse inspections and intake maintenance activities.
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Undertaking grounds maintenance duties including grass cutting, tree felling, fencing and vegetation management.
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Operating a range of plant, machinery and commercial vehicles including excavators, dumper trucks, pumps, chainsaws and grass-cutting equipment.
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Maintaining buildings, grounds, plant and machinery associated with water operations.
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Assisting with mechanical asset cleaning and adjustment activities at reservoirs, intakes and trash rake systems.
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Supporting maintenance teams as required across the wider operational area.
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Managing stores and spare parts to support operational readiness.
What We're Looking For
Essential
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Proven experience working in a practical operational, maintenance, estates or construction environment.
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Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
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Strong understanding of health and safety best practice.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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Good problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritise workloads effectively.
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Full UK driving licence.
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Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
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GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths, English and Science.
Desirable
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NVQ Level 2 in Estates Maintenance, Building Work or a related discipline.
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Plant and machinery qualifications.
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Masonry and carpentry skills.
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Knowledge of environmental management practices.
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Experience using Microsoft Office applications.
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Knowledge of the Dartmoor area and surrounding locations.
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Willingness to participate in standby arrangements when required.
Why Join South West Water?
South West Water Benefits
At South West Water, our people are the heart of everything we do. We believe in creating an environment where everyone can thrive, bring their best every day and feel truly valued. That's why we offer a diverse benefits package designed not just to reward, but to empower you to live well, both at work and beyond.
Our benefits include:
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23 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with length of service.
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Holiday Buy & Sell Scheme.
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Competitive Pension Scheme with company contribution matching.
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Life Assurance.
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Group Income Protection.
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Enhanced family leave for maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
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Share schemes, including discounted share purchase and share matching opportunities.
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Health Cash Plan.
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Free annual Flu Vaccination.
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Employee Assistance Programme providing 24/7 wellbeing support.
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Cycle to Work Scheme.
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Car Share Scheme.
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Give As You Earn charitable giving scheme.
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One paid Volunteering Day per year.
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Access to a wide range of retail discounts and savings.
Closing Date: 16th November 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 Exeter employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee health and wellbeing. With a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, our Occupational Health and Wellbeing Lead will have the unique opportunity to shape impactful programmes while enjoying generous benefits, including 30 days of annual leave. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of our employees and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land LeatsPerson in Exeter
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace LeatsPerson in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch South West Water's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at South West Water. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at South West Water.
