Buildings & Grounds Maintenance Operative

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.
Buildings & Grounds Maintenance Operative
South West Water | Bodmin
Like working outdoors, fixing things and seeing the results of your work every day? This one’s for you.
At South West Water, we keep the South West flowing — delivering safe, reliable water services across some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes. As part of the Pennon Group, we’re also driving towards net zero by 2030.
We’re looking for a Buildings & Grounds Maintenance Operative to join our team — a hands-on role where no two days are the same. You will conduct a range of grounds maintenance activities at various sites across Drinking Water Services during spring, summer and early autumn. Out of the growing season your work may also include building maintenance activities. Both will come under the guidance of the Minor Works Team leader.
What you’ll be doing
Carrying out grounds maintenance across our sites — grass cutting, strimming, hedge trimming and basic tree work.
Completing general building maintenance including painting, repairs, path maintenance and minor works.
Using tools, plant and equipment safely and effectively.
Supporting maintenance tasks such as gutter repairs and site upkeep.
Providing accurate updates on work completed and following planned schedules.
Working closely with your Team Leader to prioritise and deliver work efficiently.
Interacting with customers when needed, representing SWW in a professional and friendly way.
Following all health & safety procedures and safe systems of work.
Support for chemical tank cleaning and periodic maintenance at water treatment works
What we’re looking for
A full UK driving licence (including BE) – essential.
Practical, hands-on skills with a willingness to learn.
Experience in grounds or building maintenance (helpful but not essential).
A strong team player with a reliable, can-do attitude.
Good awareness of health & safety and safe working practices.
Flexible approach to working hours and tasks.
Good IT and numeracy skills.
What’s in it for you
Salary of £25,274 + bonus + excellent benefits.
25 days holiday + bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell leave.
Competitive pension and employee share schemes.
Access to health, wellbeing and employee assistance support.
Discounts on shopping, travel, gyms and more via Pennon Perks.
Training and development opportunities to build your skills and career.
Location: Bodmin (you’ll need to live within 30 minutes / 15 miles)
Full-time, permanent (subject to 3-month probation)
If you want a role where you’re active, outdoors and making a visible difference every day, this is a solid opportunity.
Closing Date: 3rd April 2026
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.

- Division
- South West Water
- Department
- Operations and Field Work
- Locations
- Bodmin
- Yearly salary
- £25,274
About South West Water
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.