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.

If you have an in-depth knowledge of drinking water quality and a relevant scientific degree, we might have the perfect role for you!

We're recruiting for a Principal Scientist to join the water quality team based in Exeter.

This is a full-time position, earning £56,568 and is at the heart of providing the highest quality for our customers, colleagues, stakeholders and the environment.

What you'll be doing:

• As a proactive member of the Water Quality Management Team, you'll offer scientific input to help formulate business plans and strategies.

• Assist with the preparation of an operating plan and budget, ensuring regulatory standards, cost and efficiency are achieved.

• Recruit, assess and motive members of the Water Quality Scientist team, including training and guidance where required for professional development.

• Maintain public health by identifying risks and ensuring remedial measures are communicated where applicable to the relevant regulators, authorities and Health Protection Agency.

• Providing direction, support and advice in the event of emergencies and incidents.

• Review and assess Method Standards and risk assessments, and maintain the quality management systems across the business.

• Ensure effective planning and delivery of scientific and technical support, taking into account emerging regulatory requirements.

• Ensure that Health and Safety policies and current UK and EC legislation is adhered to.

• Manage and provide out of hours Water Quality advice, reporting and liaison arrangements.

What we're looking for:

• Scientific degree (or higher).

• In-depth knowledge and understanding of water quality and environmental legislation.

• Knowledge of the implications of consumer and health and Safety legislation.

• Previous managerial experience, ideally within a scientific operational water industry role.

• Knowledge and understanding of water treatment processes and water distribution activities.

• Excellent communication skills and promotion of high-quality customer service.

• Computing and presentation skills.

• Full UK driving licence.

What's in it for you:

• Generous annual leave, plus the ability to buy and sell holiday to provide more flexibility.

• Access to thousands of discounts and savings through Pennon Perks.

• The ability to increase your earnings through standby/on-call arrangements.

• Competitive company pension scheme - helping to build your financial future.

• Employee Assistance Programme - 24/7 support.

• Comprehensive family leave policies.

• So much more.

Closing Date: 12th May 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.