Catchment Operator

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.
Location: Truro
Salary: £27,523 per annum + standby/weekend working allowance
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Enjoy working outdoors, solving problems and making a tangible impact every day?
We are currently recruiting a Catchment Operator to join our Treatment team in Truro
Joining us on a full-time, permanent basis, you'll receive a competitive salary of £27,523 per annum, with the opportunity to progress through our company grading structure. Levels range from 1 to 5, with salaries increasing to up to £36,011 at Level 5. In addition, you'll receive a salary uplift allowance for taking part in the standby rota and weekend working.
Core hours are 37 hours per week, with a 1 in 5 standby and call-out/weekend working rota once training is complete.
What you'll be doing:
Carrying out on-site monitoring and maintenance to ensure effective site operation and compliance requirements are maintained
Responding effectively to site conditions and monitoring information to ensure compliance is maintained and the environment is protected
Storing and handling chemicals in accordance with COSHH, QMS procedures and relevant Health & Safety standards
Using the iSCADA control system
Adhering to schedules, business rules and procedures
Liaising with colleagues and other areas of the business to ensure accuracy and efficiency
Dealing effectively with customer queries when approached directly and escalating where appropriate
Participating in standby, call-out and weekend working rotas
Travelling throughout the region and supporting other operational areas when required
What we're looking for:
Previous experience in a practical role would be beneficial, although full training will be provided
5 GCSEs (or equivalent) including Maths, English and a Science subject
Full UK Driving Licence
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
A positive, proactive approach and willingness to learn
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to build a rewarding long-term career while making a real difference to the communities and environment we serve. As a Catchment Operator, you'll play a vital role in delivering an essential public service, ensuring wastewater is treated safely and efficiently to help protect local rivers, coastlines and the natural environment. Whether you're bringing experience from a practical outdoor role or looking for a new career path, we'll provide the training and support you need to succeed. With a clear progression structure, ongoing development opportunities and the chance to increase your salary as your skills and responsibilities grow, this is a role where you can develop your future while helping to protect the environment for generations to come.
At South West Water, we believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our Catchment Operator you'll enjoy:
Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
Bonus Scheme – Rewarding your performance
Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
Healthcare Benefits – Access to employee assistance programs
Professional Development – Support for career growth with training opportunities
Employee Discounts – On various products and services
Generous Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement
Closing Date: 9th October 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.

- Division
- South West Water
- Department
- Operations and Field Work
- Location
- Truro
- Yearly salary
- £27,523
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.