At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the installation and maintenance of cutting-edge SCADA and control systems.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in the UK water sector with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn with a competitive salary and gain a nationally recognised qualification.
- Other info: Enjoy hands-on experience and mentorship from industry experts in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and the environment through innovative technology.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ 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.
Location: Cornwall & Devon
Salary: Competitive Apprentice Salary
Start Date: September 2026
Apprenticeship: Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician (with Electrical/Electronic HNC)
Application Deadline: 17th July 2026
About South West Water: At South West Water, we're proud to provide reliable water and wastewater services to millions of customers across the South West. Behind the scenes, our Digital & IT teams play a vital role in ensuring our operations run safely, securely and efficiently. Our Operational Technology (OT) and SCADA systems enable us to monitor, control and protect critical infrastructure across treatment works, pumping stations and distribution networks in real time.
As an Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice, you'll gain hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification, helping to maintain the technology that keeps essential services flowing and protects both public health and the environment.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Support the installation, configuration and commissioning of SCADA and control systems.
- Assist with the maintenance and improvement of OT systems, including PLCs, RTUs, telemetry and industrial networks.
- Work alongside engineers to diagnose faults and safely support live operational systems.
- Help configure alarms, data trending and reporting tools that support operational decision-making.
- Contribute to OT cyber security activities, including system hardening, access management and backup processes.
- Support project delivery through testing, documentation and system handover activities.
- Learn how automation and control systems support water and wastewater treatment processes.
- Develop safe working practices aligned to health and safety, engineering and operational standards.
Your Apprenticeship Programme:
Qualification: Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician
Academic Pathway: Electrical/Electronic HNC
Learning Approach: Workplace-based learning, Structured technical training, College or training provider study
Future Opportunities:
Successful completion could lead to a permanent Operational Technology Engineering role, with opportunities to progress onto Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications. This programme is designed to build practical knowledge and competence across:
- Industrial automation
- Control systems
- Instrumentation
- Industrial networks
- Operational technology cyber security
Who We're Looking For:
We're looking for motivated individuals who are curious, practical and eager to build a career in engineering and technology. You'll be a great fit if you:
- Enjoy understanding how technology, systems and physical assets work together.
- Have an interest in engineering, automation, electronics or IT.
- Like solving problems and learning through hands-on experience.
- Communicate effectively and work well as part of a team.
- Have a strong focus on safety and following procedures.
- Are keen to develop new technical skills and knowledge.
No previous experience in OT or SCADA is required - your attitude, enthusiasm and willingness to learn are what matter most.
Entry Requirements:
You will typically have:
- A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above, including: Maths, English, A Science subject
- Evidence of Level 2 numeracy and literacy (GCSE or equivalent).
- Typically 48 UCAS points, including Maths or a science-based subject.
- An interest or background in electrical or electronic engineering would be advantageous.
Alternative Entry Routes:
We also welcome applicants who can demonstrate their potential through:
- Relevant work experience.
- Practical engineering or technical skills.
- Completion of an assessment or written task aligned to Level 3 standards.
- Full UK driving licence, or currently working towards obtaining one.
- Ability to meet relevant security and safety requirements.
Recognition of Prior Learning:
We value previous qualifications, skills and experience through:
- APL - Accreditation of Prior Learning
- APEL - Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning
What's In It For You?
- Earn While You Learn: Gain a nationally recognised Level 4 qualification and Electrical/Electronic HNC while earning a salary.
- Hands-On Experience: Work with real-world OT and SCADA systems that support critical infrastructure across the South West.
- Structured Development: Benefit from a carefully designed training programme aligned to industry engineering standards.
- Mentoring & Support: Learn from experienced engineers and technical specialists who will support your development throughout the programme.
- Varied Experience: Gain exposure to operational support, engineering projects, cyber security activities and emerging technologies.
- Career Progression: Build a pathway into a fully qualified Operational Technology Engineering role.
- Purposeful Work: Play an important role in protecting public health, supporting communities and safeguarding the environment.
Ready to Shape the Future of Operational Technology? Join South West Water and develop the skills, experience and qualifications needed to become part of the team powering essential services across the South West. Apply today and start your engineering career with us in September 2026.
Closing Date: 17th July 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice in London
✨Get Hands-On with Projects
Dive into some practical projects or tinkering with automation systems—whether it’s building a small robot or setting up a home automation project. This not only boosts your skills but also gives you something tangible to showcase during interviews for your apprenticeship at places like South West Water!
✨Join Automation Communities
Connect with online forums and local meetups centred around automation and control systems. Platforms like Reddit, LinkedIn groups, or local tech hubs are gold mines for learning, networking, and even finding apprenticeship openings in your field.
✨Leverage Your School's Resources
Check out your school's career centre for connections and advice specifically about apprenticeship opportunities. They often have links to local companies, workshops, and events that can help you get your foot in the door and even put you in touch with South West Water.
✨Build a Portfolio of Your Work
Create a simple online portfolio to showcase any relevant projects or skills you've gained. Include photos, diagrams, or videos, showing what you can do. This could really impress recruiters when you're applying for an apprenticeship at South West Water!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Technical Savvy:In the automation control systems field, it's essential to highlight your familiarity with programming languages and systems. If you've done any hands-on projects with PLCs or robotics, make sure to mention those in your CV. It’ll show that you’re not just book-smart but can apply your skills practically too!
Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills:When applying for an apprenticeship, employers are keen to see your ability to tackle real-world issues. Share specific examples where you've identified a problem and how you approached a solution, even if it's from school projects or hobbies. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and creativity in a technical setting.
Craft a Learning-Focused Cover Letter:While your CV showcases what you’ve done, your cover letter is the place to express your motivation and eagerness to learn. Outline why you're passionate about automation control systems, and mention any relevant coursework or certifications that support your learning journey. This is key for apprenticeship applications!
Tailor Your Application to South West Water:Make your application stand out by researching South West Water and specifying what excites you about working with them. Whether it’s their projects or technologies they use, referencing these in your CV or cover letter can show your genuine interest and tailor your submission to really resonate with them!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Show Off Your Tech Savvy
In the automation control systems field, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of key technologies like PLCs and SCADA systems. Brush up on the basics of these tools and be prepared to answer questions on how they apply to real-world scenarios. It'll show that you’re not just keen, but also have a grasp of the essentials!
✨Practical Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to be given some problem-solving scenarios during the interview. You might be asked to explain how you'd approach a certain automation challenge or troubleshoot a hypothetical control system issue. Prepare by practising common problems you might encounter and thinking through your solution strategies.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, your motivation and eagerness to learn are just as important as your technical skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled new concepts or projects in the past, and discuss what you hope to gain from your time at South West Water. Show that you’re excited about the journey ahead!
✨Connect Your Hobbies to the Field
If you have any personal projects or interests that involve automation or control systems—like robotics or DIY electronics—definitely bring them up. This not only showcases your passion but also offers tangible evidence of your skills. It’s a great way to make your application memorable and relatable!
