Pennon Group Plc
Network Inspector
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Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose
SES Water has a rich history of serving communities in the South East of England. Water plays an important role in our lives, which is why we’re committed to supplying our customers with access to 160 million litres of safe, reliable, clean water every day.
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 supporting 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.
Role Purpose
The Network Inspector plays a critical operational role in maintaining the integrity, reliability and performance of the water distribution network. The role is responsible for supporting network operations across the Company's area of supply, responding to incidents, undertaking planned operational activities and providing technical support to customers, developers, contractors, regulatory bodies and colleagues.
Working both independently and as part of a wider operational team, the postholder will contribute to the continued delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water and exceptional customer service.
Key Responsibilities
Network Operations
- Take delegated responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the water distribution network throughout the Company's area of supply.
- Plan, coordinate and risk assess network activities, including work on trunk mains and critical assets.
- Locate and operate network assets including valves, hydrants and associated apparatus.
- Carry out valving operations across the network, treatment works, reservoirs and pumping stations.
- Enable reservoir cleaning activities through asset isolation, draining, recharging and restoration activities.
- Support asset health and network resilience programmes through planned operational interventions.
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Incident Response
- Act as a first responder to network incidents and emergencies, providing rapid operational response.
- Investigate customer complaints and implement corrective actions where required.
- Respond to smart network alarms to minimise leakage, maintain supplies and improve network resilience.
- Undertake activities such as flushing, pressure testing, stakeholder liaison and network control during incidents.
- Support post-incident recovery and network stabilisation activities.
- Act as a first responder to suspected illegal connections, securing assets, mitigating risks and supporting investigations.
Water Quality and Regulatory Compliance
- Undertake water mains flushing and water sampling as an accredited sampler.
- Carry out Water Fittings Regulations inspections at domestic properties.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures, regulatory requirements and water quality standards.
- Maintain accurate records to support operational and regulatory reporting.
Asset Inspection and Maintenance
- Conduct inspections of network assets, including air valves and other critical infrastructure.
- Deliver first-time fixes where appropriate, including:
- Basic supply pipe repairs
- Spindle changes
- Lid replacements
- Record inspection outcomes and maintain asset information systems.
- Support initiatives to improve asset performance and operational efficiency.
Stakeholder and Customer Support
- Provide specialist advice to customers, developers, local authorities, contractors and internal stakeholders.
- Work closely with Customer Services, Production and Contract teams to support operational objectives.
- Maintain positive working relationships with external agencies and stakeholders during planned and reactive activities.
Standby and Emergency Duties
- Participate in a 24-hour standby and call-out rota.
- Provide operational support during incidents that may require extended working periods.
- Be prepared to work independently and make decisions within established procedures during emergency situations.
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Working Conditions
- Based from the Company's Redhill office with regular travel throughout the water supply area.
- Predominantly field-based role requiring work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Regular manual activities including valve operations, lifting covers and handling equipment.
- Frequent interaction with customers, contractors, local authorities and colleagues.
- Participation in a 24-hour standby rota and emergency response activities is required.
- Significant lone working and autonomous decision-making responsibilities.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
- City & Guilds (or equivalent) qualification in Plumbing.
Closing Date
21st 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 everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
- Be the Future - Embrace change. Drive Progress. Own the challenge.
Founded in 1989, Pennon is a FTSE 250 listed company and one of the leading businesses in the UK water sector.
Serving a population of c.3.5million people and c.380,000 business customers, we're committed to supporting the lives of people and the places they love for generations to come.
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