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 green mission.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, and a structured progression scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with hands-on experience and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real environmental impact while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and Science; relevant degree required.
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 Scientist (Permanent) 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 Scientist (Permanent) 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 the company’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in making a real impact on water quality and environmental sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially those related to teamwork and problem-solving. We want to see how you handle challenges and work with others to achieve goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to keep the South West flowing!
We think you need these skills to ace Water Quality Scientist (Permanent) in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Water Quality Scientist role. Highlight any relevant scientific background and practical 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 expertise can help us achieve our goals. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to mention specific examples where you’ve tackled challenges in a scientific or technical environment. We love seeing how you approach problems and come up with innovative solutions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your scientific knowledge related to wastewater treatment and environmental management. Be prepared to discuss specific processes, regulations, and technologies that are relevant to the role. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples from your past experiences where you identified issues and implemented solutions, especially in a scientific or technical environment. Highlighting your analytical skills and ability to optimise processes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating complex scientific concepts in simple terms. Since you'll be working with various stakeholders, demonstrating strong communication skills will be crucial. Prepare to explain how you would convey technical information to non-technical team members.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Be ready to discuss your experience working both independently and as part of a team. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others to achieve common goals, particularly in fast-paced environments. This will show that you're adaptable and a great fit for their team.
