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.

The Role

We are looking for a Laboratory Scientist – Microbiology to join our Laboratory Services team in Exeter.

In this role, you will be responsible for carrying out microbiological analysis of water samples to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and support the delivery of safe, reliable water services. You will contribute to maintaining laboratory quality systems, investigating analytical results, and driving continuous improvement across laboratory operations.

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with a passion for science, quality, and environmental protection to develop their career within a purpose-driven organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Microbiological Analysis

• Carry out microbiological testing of water samples using approved laboratory methods and procedures.

• Ensure analytical work is completed accurately and efficiently to agreed quality standards.

• Interpret and evaluate test results, identifying any anomalies or non-conforming outcomes.

• Prepare and communicate findings to relevant internal and external stakeholders.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure all activities comply with ISO17025 accreditation requirements and regulatory standards.

• Maintain accurate laboratory records, documentation, and quality control data.

• Support audits and quality assurance activities as required.

• Contribute to investigations into non-conforming results and implement corrective actions where appropriate.

Laboratory Operations

• Perform routine calibration, verification, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.

• Plan and prioritise workloads to ensure efficient delivery of analytical services.

• Support method development, validation activities, and laboratory improvement projects.

• Monitor laboratory supplies and ensure equipment and work areas remain compliant and operational.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Work collaboratively with laboratory colleagues and wider business teams.

• Assist in the training and development of team members where required.

• Contribute ideas and initiatives that improve laboratory performance, efficiency, and service delivery.

• Promote a strong culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Emergency Response

• Participate in an out-of-hours standby rota to support emergency sampling and analysis requirements.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Essential

• Minimum A-Level (or equivalent) qualification in a Biology-related subject.

• Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality results.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.

• Effective communication skills and the ability to explain technical information clearly.

• Commitment to health and safety, quality standards, and continuous improvement.

Desirable

• HNC, Degree, or equivalent higher qualification in a relevant scientific discipline.

• Previous experience working within a laboratory environment.

• Experience working within an ISO17025 accredited laboratory or similar quality management system.

• Knowledge of microbiological testing techniques and environmental or water sample analysis.

• Understanding of regulatory requirements relating to water quality and environmental compliance.

Key Competencies

• Scientific & Technical Excellence

• Attention to Detail

• Quality & Compliance Focus

• Analytical Thinking

• Planning & Organising

• Teamwork & Collaboration

• Communication

• Problem Solving

• Continuous Improvement

• Customer & Environmental Focus

Our Benefits

Time Away From Work

• Holiday Buy & Sell Scheme giving you flexibility to purchase additional leave or receive the value in cash.

• Paid Volunteering Day to support causes and communities that matter to you.

Reward & Recognition

• Retail discounts platform providing access to thousands of savings and exclusive offers.

Financial Wellbeing

• Competitive Pension Scheme with company contribution matching and flexible contribution options.

• Life Assurance providing financial protection for your loved ones.

• Group Income Protection supporting your income if illness or injury prevents you from working.

• Share Schemes, including discounted share purchase options and share matching opportunities.

Family Support

• Enhanced family leave policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave.

Health & Wellbeing

• Health Cash Plan for you and your family at discounted rates.

• Free annual flu vaccination.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing 24/7 support for mental health, financial wellbeing, and personal matters.

Travel & Lifestyle

• Cycle to Work Scheme supporting healthier and more sustainable travel.

• Car Share Scheme helping reduce commuting costs and environmental impact.

Closing Date: 28th Aug 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.