Pennon Group
Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice
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Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice
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 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.
Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice
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
As part of our Digital & IT and Operational Technology teams, you'll develop practical engineering and technical skills while supporting critical operational systems. During your apprenticeship, you'll:
- Support the installation, configuration, and commissioning of SCADA and control systems.
- Assist with the maintenance and improvement of OT systems, including:
- PLCs
- RTUs
- Telemetry
- Industrial networks
- Work alongside engineers to diagnose faults and safely support live operational systems.
- Help configure:
- Alarms
- Data trending
- Reporting tools that support operational decision-making.
- Contribute to OT cyber security activities, including:
- System hardening
- Access management
- Backup processes.
- Support project delivery through:
- Testing
- Documentation
- 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.
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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.
- 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
Academic 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.
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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
- Emerging technologies
- Gain exposure to:
-
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.
Culture & Values
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—essential for our success:
- 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.
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