At a Glance
- Tasks: Support wastewater operations and drive efficiency while protecting the environment.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector with a purpose-driven mission.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, and a structured progression scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for mentoring and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real environmental impact and grow your scientific expertise in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, Science, and a relevant Bachelor's degree.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € 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 include lowering our carbon footprint, planting 300,000 trees, restoring peatlands, and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Wastewater Process Scientist to join our team in Plymouth. This is a hands-on, impactful role where your scientific expertise will support wastewater operations, protect the environment, and help drive efficiency across our treatment processes. You’ll work closely with operational and delivery teams, combining office-based analysis with site and field-based activity, ensuring wastewater treatment works operate safely, efficiently, and in line with regulatory requirements.
Development and progression are integral to this role. The position operates within a structured progression scheme, with the level of responsibility, technical complexity, and autonomy increasing as your experience, capability, and confidence grow. You’ll receive ongoing support, mentoring, and development opportunities, enabling you to advance through defined stages as you build operational knowledge and scientific expertise.
What you’ll be doing:
- Providing scientific and technical support to wastewater operational teams to ensure regulatory compliance at best cost
- Visiting sewage treatment works to assess performance, identify issues and recommend improvements
- Delivering performance optimisation projects focused on chemical and energy efficiency
- Supporting environmental risk management, including participation in an out-of-hours pollution response rota
- Implementing and monitoring Trade Effluent control policies and undertaking regulatory sampling
- Investigating pollution incidents, illicit discharges and odour complaints
- Preparing technical reports on operational performance and cost-saving opportunities
- Supporting capital investment projects, innovation trials and new technologies
- Providing scientific advice on sludge imports and external waste streams
This role offers genuine variety, responsibility, and the opportunity to apply scientific theory in real-world scenarios.
What we’re looking for:
- A minimum of 5 GCSEs (grade 5 or above), including Maths, English and Science
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline
- Experience working in a scientific or technical environment
- Full UK driving licence
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders
- Comfortable working independently and as part of a team
- Able to prioritise effectively in a reactive, fast-paced environment
What’s in it for you? We offer far more than just a competitive salary. Our benefits include: Wastewater Process Scientist progression scheme, generous annual leave plus...
Water Quality Risk Scientist in Exeter employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters environmental stewardship and personal growth. Located in the picturesque Plymouth, our team enjoys a structured progression scheme, ongoing mentoring, and the chance to make a tangible impact on water quality and sustainability. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your contributions and supports your career development in the vital field of water management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Water Quality Risk Scientist in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at South West Water on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching common questions for scientific roles. Think about how your skills can help with wastewater operations and be ready to share specific examples from your experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for environmental impact! During interviews, highlight your commitment to sustainability and how you can contribute to South West Water's goals of improving water quality and wildlife.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the team at South West Water.
We think you need these skills to ace Water Quality Risk Scientist in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Water Quality Risk Scientist role. Highlight any relevant scientific expertise and experience in wastewater operations to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about water quality and how your background aligns with our mission at South West Water. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and come up with innovative solutions, especially in a fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your scientific knowledge related to wastewater processes and environmental management. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your studies or previous roles that demonstrate your understanding of regulatory compliance and performance optimisation.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of real-life scenarios where you've identified issues and implemented solutions, especially in a scientific context. Be ready to explain how you approached these challenges and the impact of your actions on efficiency and compliance.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since this role involves working with various stakeholders, practice articulating complex scientific concepts in simple terms. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with teams in the past and how you can bring that skill to South West Water.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for the Environment
South West Water is committed to sustainability and environmental impact. Share your enthusiasm for these topics and any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in making a difference.
