At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate water treatment sites and ensure high-quality drinking water standards.
- Company: Join South West Water, a leader in sustainable water services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team making a real impact on the environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths and English; NVQ 2 in Operating Process Plant preferred.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
At South West Water we 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.
About the role: We currently have a fantastic opportunity available for a Production Technician to join our team based in Bournemouth. You will join us on a full‑time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a competitive salary of £27,000 – £33,000 per annum plus a range of excellent company benefits and rewards. In this role you will operate complex water treatment sites and associates’ plant and equipment ensuring that potable water quality standards are achieved, and production demands are met. You will always achieve the highest quality for our customers, colleagues, the environment, and all stakeholders by putting “Quality First”. Providing out of hours standby cover will be required as part of an operational rota to ensure sites are maintained in an operational state out of hours.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Liaise with company control room in accordance with operational procedures.
- Ensure that all chemicals are stored, handled and used safely, effectively and efficiently, in line with company requirements. This includes the use of Breathing Apparatus.
- Carry out operational maintenance on equipment and instrumentation in accordance with work schedules and task instructions.
- Take water quality samples and carry out on site analyses as required in accordance with work instructions.
- Complete water quality and operational procedures, records/log sheets.
- Perform routine and non‑routine tasks in accordance with the operational requirements of sites. This may include grounds maintenance, river/intake maintenance, security checks, reservoir and tank cleaning.
- Ensure that all abnormal events are dealt with in accordance with company procedures and are reported to the Resources appropriate training will be given.
What We're Looking For:
- 5 GCSEs or equivalent at grade A to C in Maths and English.
- NVQ 2 in Operating Process Plant – or willing to work towards it.
- Experience in Water Treatment or other relevant process.
- Use of computer systems for works SCADA.
- Use of computer systems for standard software packages such as e‑mail, Word and Excel, PDA devices.
- Understanding of principles of COSHH, Lone Working procedures and Basic First Aid.
- Administrative duties, e.g., site logs, diary, task sheets, work orders, stock records, GRN’s etc.
- Alarm response and interpretation, understanding of priorities.
- Skilled communicator with the ability to build strong relationships with people at all levels of the business.
- Excellent organisation skills with the ability to adapt and organise/adapt workload to changing priorities.
- Driving of company vehicles; site specific requirements for 4WD, forklift and tractor / trailer.
- Ability to remain self‑motivated and committed.
- Ability to reach sound judgements and decisions when dealing with often complex issues and operating in highly pressurised situations.
- A flexible approach to working hours which includes working evenings and weekends as part of the flexible working pattern. This includes participation in a standby rotation and a requirement to attend callouts within a specified time frame.
- Participate in technician progression scheme.
- Full UK Drivers Licence.
What's In It For You:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays.
- Buy or sell annual leave to offer you extra flexibility.
- Buy a bike and safety equipment tax‑free, through our Cycle to Work scheme.
- We offer free car parking at most of our sites.
- Take up to 26 weeks’ additional maternity leave.
- Share your parental leave and split your time off to care for your child how you choose.
- Invest in Pennon Group plc through our employee share schemes.
- We support our people by offering a free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
- Look after your wellbeing with our Champion Health support platform.
- Enjoy free eye tests and discounts on frames and lenses at Specsavers.
- Enjoy access to thousands of deals and discounts on supermarkets, high street shops, online retailers, travel, eating out, cinemas, gyms and much more through Perkbox.
- A range of group discounts: The Dell Advantage Programme, Virgin Media Affinity Scheme, Vodaphone Advantage and more.
- A discretionary Bonus.
- Competitive Contributory Pension.
- And plenty more!
Closing Date: 22nd January 2026.
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.
Production Technician employer: South West Water
At South West Water, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and sustainability. Our employees benefit from opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside the chance to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives in one of the UK's most beautiful regions. Join us in making a difference while enjoying a fulfilling career in the water sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at South West Water on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the company’s values, especially their commitment to net-zero by 2030. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who shares their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on common questions for Production Technicians and be ready to discuss your experience in water treatment and safety procedures.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at South West Water.
We think you need these skills to ace Production Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about becoming a Production Technician and how you align with our mission at South West Water.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background fits with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and get straight to the important stuff. No need for fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at South West Water
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of water treatment and the specific processes involved. Brush up on your knowledge of COSHH, operational maintenance, and water quality standards. This will show that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with SCADA systems and any relevant software packages like Word and Excel. Be ready to give examples of how you've used these tools in past roles, especially in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate your technical competence and adaptability.
✨Communicate Effectively
As a Production Technician, you'll need to liaise with various teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've built strong relationships or resolved conflicts at work. This will highlight your communication skills and ability to work well with others.
✨Be Flexible and Ready for Challenges
The role requires a flexible approach to working hours and the ability to handle complex issues. Prepare to discuss how you've adapted to changing priorities in previous jobs. Show that you're self-motivated and can make sound decisions under pressure, which is crucial for this position.
