Operational Technology Engineer

At South West Water, we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations-fostering a vision and culture that encourage change, improvement, and innovation.

We are proud to provide reliable, efficient, and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area.

We have ambitious goals, including reaching net-zero by 2030. We have also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks, and local organizations to help ensure a better future for generations to come.

If you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, .

Are you looking to apply your skills and experience in a trusted, collaborative workplace? Do you have what it takes to contribute to the operation and maintenance of our services as part of one of the largest businesses in the South West?

We currently have an OT Engineer position based in Exeter. This is a permanent full-time role offering a salary of £41,500 - £52,000 plus excellent benefits.

About the role

As our Operational Technology (OT) Engineer, you will install, repair, and maintain critical remote plant and process control systems, supporting the safe and efficient delivery of operational services.

You will be responsible for delivering capital investment projects on time, engaging operational staff, regional managers, and third-party contractors, within budget and adhering to technical standards, governance, policies, and procedures.

The technology scope includes sensors, instrumentation, plant networks, PLCs, SCADA, process control, and telemetry.

What you'll be doing:

• Delivering projects within scope, time, and budget using established project and change governance. Programming PLCs, telemetry, and SCADA systems for plant control and monitoring.
• Collaborating with operational and IT teams to ensure system availability, serviceability, reliability, and scalability.
• Responding to operational issues with onsite analysis, diagnosis, and resolution.
• Managing OT services using system administration tools and access controls.
• Ensuring compliance with information security policies.
• Engaging with OT management and standards engineers to develop ICS standards, ensuring compliance with legislation like UK NIS.
• Participating in a 24/7 standby rota to ensure OT service availability.

What we are looking for:

• Relevant industrial control apprenticeship, qualifications, or training.
• Compliance with current IEE regulations.
• Extensive operational/industrial technology experience in a medium/large organization.
• Experience with process control and ELV/LV electrical systems.
• Proficiency with PLCs, especially on Schneider platforms, and understanding communication protocols.
• Ability to work with colleagues, contractors, and partners to deliver site-based projects.
• Experience in scoping and quoting projects and work packages.
• Strong IT skills and a technical mindset.
• Full UK driver's license and ability to travel using a company vehicle.
• Ability to complete UK Government Security Clearance (SC) process.

What's in it for you:

We value our staff's support and commitment, offering ongoing development and training for a long-term career. We are proud to be recognized as Investors in People. Our benefits include:

• Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays.
• A discretionary bonus.
• Competitive contributory pension.
• Share-save scheme.
• Health benefits and wellbeing programs.
• Group discounts, Cycle to Work Scheme, and financial support services.
• And more!

Closing Date: 13th August 2025

Note: Successful candidates will be subject to a mandatory DBS check.

Be yourself, we like it that way. We foster a culture of belonging, where inclusion and diversity are valued and celebrated.

Our core values:

Be Rock Solid - Build trust and be trusted.

Be You - Bring your best every day and be authentic.

Be the Future - Embrace change, drive progress, and own challenges.