At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Water Production team to install, maintain, and repair water production assets.
- Company: Dynamic water services company focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and performance-related pay.
- Other info: Mobile role with travel, excellent career growth, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in water management while developing your technical skills.
- Qualifications: HNC or NVQ level 3 in instrumentation, control, and automation required.
The predicted salary is between 41000 - 57000 € per year.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an Instrumentation, Control & Automation (ICA) or Control and Instrumentation (C&I) technician to join our Water Production team in Reading. This is a mobile role where you will work at various water treatment works around the Reading area. Travel between sites will be required, and you may be contractually based at Fobney Water Treatment Works, Reading. The role requires 38 hours per week, Monday‑Friday, 7:30 am – 3:36 pm, with standby and overtime opportunities that can increase earnings by an additional £8,000 – £10,000 upon completion of essential company training. All PPE, tools, a company van and a fuel card are provided.
Responsibilities:
- Installations, commissioning, maintenance and repairs of water production assets, including level instrumentation, flow meters and Tand VM’s turbidity monitors.
- Work with technology, including SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, PLCs and process control networks.
- Liaise with and supervise contractors and suppliers where necessary.
- Investigate asset failures and implement subsequent repairs quickly and efficiently to avoid interruptions to the water supply process.
- Provide specialist technical advice, keep up‑to‑date technical knowledge and offer training support for technical apprentices.
Qualifications / What you should bring to the role:
- Qualified to HNC level or NVQ level 3 (or equivalent) in an instrumentation, control and automation discipline.
- Preferably hold an 18th Edition (BS7671) qualification.
- Good practical understanding of operational plant and control systems.
- Understanding of Wonderware and ClearSCADA is desirable.
- Foundational knowledge of low‑voltage systems.
- Knowledge and experience with relay logic and PLCs (Rockwell & Allen‑Bradley) management and programming.
- Ability to read and fault‑find from circuit diagrams, and previous experience with inverter drives.
- Experience in calibration and maintenance of frontline instrumentation.
- Problem‑solving skills, able to identify issues and implement solutions or escalations where required.
- Excellent communication skills, able to provide technical expertise to internal and external staff and contractors.
- Resilient, adaptable to the pressures of work and a constantly changing environment.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Knowledge and awareness of health and safety issues relevant to the industry.
- Team‑player, supportive of others, providing helpful feedback and supporting development.
- Full UK driving licence.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary offering between £41,000 and £57,000 per annum, depending on skills and experience.
- Contributory pension – Defined Contribution, maximum 12 % employee contribution with 2× employee match.
- Annual leave: 24 days holiday per year, increasing to 28 days with length of service. (plus bank holidays)
- Performance‑related pay plan linked to company performance measures and targets.
- Generous Paternity Leave: 4 weeks paid, optional 2 weeks unpaid.
- Enhanced Maternity Leave: 26 weeks full pay, 13 weeks half pay.
- Access to a wide range of benefits to support health and well‑being, finances and well‑being – annual health MOTs, physiotherapy, counselling, Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.
- Personal Medical Assessments – open to all once a year.
- Wider benefits scheme, including a benefits hub.
Instrumentation, Controls & Automation Technician (ICA) in England employer: Thames Water
Join our Water Production team in Reading as an Instrumentation, Controls & Automation Technician, where you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and extensive training opportunities, we empower our technicians to excel in their roles while providing essential services to the community. Our commitment to health and safety, along with a range of benefits designed to enhance your quality of life, makes us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Instrumentation, Controls & Automation Technician (ICA) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend local meetups or workshops, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty! If you can, volunteer or take on freelance projects related to instrumentation and controls. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers that you're passionate and proactive about your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've tackled challenges in past roles. Practice makes perfect, so consider mock interviews with friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented technicians like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Instrumentation, Controls & Automation Technician (ICA) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in instrumentation, controls, and automation. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page about what you bring to the table.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re excited about the ICA role and how your skills align with our needs. Keep it friendly and professional, and don’t forget to mention your passion for water production.
Show Off Your Technical Skills:We want to see your technical know-how! Be specific about your experience with SCADA systems, PLCs, and any other relevant tech. If you’ve got certifications like the 18th Edition, make sure they’re front and centre.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Reading!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SCADA systems, PLCs, and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your experience with these systems will show that you're not just familiar with the terms but can actually apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of past challenges you've faced in instrumentation or automation roles. Be ready to explain how you identified issues and implemented solutions. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and act quickly, which is crucial for this role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be liaising with contractors and suppliers, practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. Good communication skills are essential, so think about how you can convey your expertise without overwhelming others with jargon.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Safety
Health and safety is a big deal in this industry. Familiarise yourself with relevant health and safety regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've applied these in your previous roles. Showing that you prioritise safety will make a strong impression.
