South West Water
Waste Water Quality Technician

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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.
We’re looking for a Waste Water Quality Technician to join our Environmental Performance team on a 12 month fixed term contract basis. In this hands-on role, you’ll play a key part in protecting the environment by carrying out high‑quality waste water sampling across the South West. Your work will directly support regulatory compliance, performance monitoring, and the safe operation of our waste water treatment processes.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop a career in environmental science, water quality, or field-based operational roles.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Carrying out a range of waste water sampling activities in line with ISO17025:2017, OSM, UV and UWWTR regulatory requirements.
- Maintaining accurate records, sample integrity, and full compliance with quality management systems.
- Working safely at all times, following risk assessments, procedures, and training guidance.
- Representing the company positively with customers, site operators, and external organisations.
- Working flexibly across the region, including participation in a weekend rota (1 in 6).
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Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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Essential
What we’re looking for:
- 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths, English and a Science subject (Grade C/4 or above).
- Experience managing workloads and meeting deadlines.
- Good geographical knowledge of the South West.
- Excellent attention to detail and the ability to follow procedures precisely.
- Confidence using MS Office and learning new systems.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently while staying connected to the wider team.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
- A Level (or equivalent) in a science subject.
- Experience in a scientific or operational environment.
- Understanding of ISO 9001 or ISO 17025 requirements.
- Commitment to continuous development and team collaboration.
Whats In It For You
- 23 days starting holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- Share save Scheme
- Various health benefits
- Wellbeing support programmes
- A range of Group Discounts


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Closing Date: 22nd 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.
We look after the water and wastewater services for 1.8 million customers across Cornwall, Devon, the Isles of Scilly and parts of Dorset and Somerset.
From treatment and maintenance, to innovation and improvements, we're busy every day finding and fixing leaks, unblocking sewers and going bigger and further in our environmental work to be a company you can be proud of.
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