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- Tasks: Maintain and repair critical plant and process control systems for efficient operations.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in providing quality water services in the beautiful South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, a bonus, pension scheme, and various discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team driving innovation towards net-zero by 2030.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths, English, and Science; experience with PLCs and process control systems required.
- Other info: Mandatory DBS check required; we celebrate diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 42600 £ per year.
Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer
Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer
AtSouth West Waterwe believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations – with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate.
We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area.
And we have huge ambitions.
Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come.
So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater.
Do you have experience of process control and ELV/LV electrical systems?Have you got what it takes to contribute to the operation and maintenance of our service, as part of one of the largest businesses in the South West?
We currently have an opportunity for an Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer to join our team based in Exeter. Joining us on a full-time permanent basis, you will receive a competitive salary of £39,023 to £42,925 per annum plus excellent benefits.
About the role
As our OT Maintenance Engineer you will repair and maintain critical remote plant and process control systems, supporting the safe and efficient delivery of operational services. You will carry out planned maintenance activities and provide timely response to operational issues, performing onsite analysis, diagnosis, and resolution of complex problems.
To bring enhancement and resilience to operational processes the OT Maintenance Engineer has the opportunity and capability to identify and carry out timely delivery of small capital investment schemes using established project and change governance.
The scope of the technology base is wide, including sensors, instrumentation, plant networks, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), process control and telemetry.
What you’ll be doing:
- Carrying out planned and proactive maintenance activities on operational instrumentation and controls systems to improve process compliance, reliability, and performance
- Providing timely response to operational issues, performing onsite analysis, diagnosis, and resolution of complex problems
- Participating in a 24 x 7 x7 365 standby roster to provide out of hours reactive maintenance services
- Working collaboratively with a range of operational teams such as mechanical, and electrical technicians to prioritise work and coordinate the delivery of maintenance activities
- Use industrial control, instrumentation, and technical knowledge, working with operational functions to provide recommendations for process optimisation, improvements, and efficiencies.
- Assisting the OT Maintenance Manager with root causes of plant failure and/or sub optimal performance and take ownership of resolution
- Engaging with OT Regional Maintenance and OT Maintenance Managers, instrumentation, and OT standards engineers to provide levels of technical detail that help to drive Industrial Control System (ICS) technical standards necessary to ensure we comply with relevant legislation e.g., UK NIS (Network and Information Systems) directive, exploit technology and standardise implementations
- Undertaking firmware/software releases, patching and rollouts according to change, security and release management best practice
- Continually promote a health and safety culture to ensure all employees go HomeSafe. Ensure personal compliance with health and safety legislation, company policy and procedures.
What we are looking for:
- Minimum 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics, English and a Science subject (or equivalent)
- Relevant industrial control apprenticeship, qualifications, or training
- Experience of process control and ELV/LV electrical systems
- Working with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) including management and programming, with an understanding of communication protocols particularly on Schneider platforms
- Knowledge in calibration and maintenance of front-line instrumentation
- Excellent IT skills and a technical bias
- Full UK drivers licence and an ability to travel around the work area using company vehicle
- Ability to complete UK Government Security Clearance (SC) process successfully
What\’s in it for you:
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Share-save Scheme
- A range of Group Discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Financial support services
- And plenty more!
Closing Date: 10th August 2025
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 everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
Be the Future – Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
We\’re always pleased to hear from talented people. So if you have any questions about the opportunities that we have available, or if there\’s anything else you\’d like to know before you apply (or indeed during the application process), please don\’t hesitate to send your details to our Talent Acquisition Team.
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Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer employer: South West Water
Contact Detail:
South West Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as PLCs and SCADA systems. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with these systems during an interview will demonstrate your technical expertise and suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of South West Water on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills in detail. Since the role involves diagnosing and resolving complex issues, having specific examples ready will help you illustrate your capabilities effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your commitment to health and safety practices. Given the emphasis on promoting a health and safety culture, be ready to share how you've prioritised safety in your previous roles, which will align with the company's values.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Technology Maintenance Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in process control and ELV/LV electrical systems. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills with PLCs and SCADA systems, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the company’s commitment to sustainability. Mention how your background aligns with their goals, particularly in relation to net-zero ambitions and operational efficiency.
Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills related to industrial control systems, instrumentation, and maintenance. Include any certifications or training that support your qualifications for the role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities: Provide examples of past experiences where you successfully diagnosed and resolved complex operational issues. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the OT Maintenance Engineer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of process control, ELV/LV electrical systems, and PLCs. Be prepared to discuss specific projects or experiences where you've successfully applied this knowledge.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to share examples of complex problems you've encountered in previous roles and how you resolved them. Highlight your analytical skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this role, think of instances where you've worked effectively with other teams. Emphasise your communication skills and how you prioritised tasks to achieve common goals.
✨Embrace the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with South West Water's values and mission. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding sustainability and innovation.
