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 are currently recruiting a Catchment Operator to join our Treatment team in Barnstaple.
Joining us on a full-time, permanent basis. You will receive a competitive salary of £27,522 per annum with the opportunity to enter our company progression scheme. Levels range from 1 to 5 with a salary of up to £34,460 at Level 5. In addition to this, you will also receive a salary uplift allowance for taking part in the standby rota/weekend working.
Core hours are 37 per week with a 1 in 5 week standby and call out/weekend working rota, once training is complete.
As Catchment Operator, you will operate and maintain multiple Wastewater Treatment works within the area.
Carrying out on-site monitoring and maintenance to ensure effective site operation and that compliance requirements are maintained
Responding effectively to site conditions and monitoring information that ensure compliance is maintained and the environment is protected
Storing and handling chemicals in accordance with COSHH, QMS Procedures and relevant Health and Safety standards
Using the iSCADA control system
Adhering to timely schedules, business rules, and procedures
Liaising with other team members and areas of the business to ensure accuracy and efficiency
Dealing effectively with customer queries when directly approached and passing information up the management line where appropriate
A flexible working pattern is in operation which includes undertaking standby and callouts and working evenings and weekends on a rota basis
Travelling throughout the region and assisting other zones as necessary
Previous experience within a practical role would be beneficial, however our company induction will provide you with all the training you need to get started!
5 GCSEs or equivalent in Maths, English and a Science subject
Full UK Driving License
Proficient in Microsoft packages
Happy working outside in all conditions
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
Closing Date: 28th 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.
