Job Description

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 goal? Net zero by 2030, supported by partnerships with Wildlife Trusts and National Parks.
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.

A unique opportunity has arisen for an

Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant

to support the delivery of a major rationalisation and optimisation programme across all Sewage Pumping Stations (SPS) and Sewage Treatment Works (STW). The role is being offered on a fixed-term (initial 1-year SPS phase, followed by 1-year STW phase), with potential for extension based on project outcomes and future rationalisation needs.

About this role:

To role will support the delivery of the Alarm Rationalisation Project across all Sewage Pumping Stations (SPS) and Sewage Treatment Works (STW). The role focuses on reviewing, reprioritising, labelling, and optimising configured alarms in the SCADA system in line with the Alarm Philosophy and EEMUA standards. The Technical Assistant will play a key role in data analysis, documentation, reporting, and engagement with operational teams to ensure alarm handling is simplified, consistent, and effective.

What you'll be doing:

Data & Technical Support

-Extract, review, and validate alarm configuration data using SCADA, Asset Data Portal, and other systems.
Assist with the application of Alarm Prioritisation, Labelling, and Optimisation processes.
Document configuration changes and ensure alignment with technical and operational standards.

Reporting & Analysis

- Use tools such as Power BI, Datamart, and Strumap to support performance tracking and reporting.
Produce clear, accurate reports on alarm distribution, nuisance alarms, and action rates.
Identify anomalies and escalate technical issues to the OT Technician or Alarm Optimisation Manager.

Stakeholder Support

-Provide administrative and technical support during workshops, site reviews, and training sessions.
Liaise with Waste Area and Treatment/Pump Managers to gather site-specific information.
Maintain clear communication with Control Room and field operations staff regarding rationalisation progress.

Project Delivery

- Support the delivery of rationalisation milestones across SPS and STW sites.
Maintain accurate project documentation, databases, and audit trails.
Contribute to lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives.

What we are looking for:

HNC/HND or equivalent experience in a relevant technical discipline (e.g., Engineering, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Information Systems).
Strong analytical and data management skills.
Experience working with SCADA systems or similar industrial control systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and data visualisation tools.
Excellent attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us. We're one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:
Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
A discretionary Bonus
Competitive Contributory Pension
Share-save Scheme
Various health benefits
Wellbeing support programmes
A range of Group Discounts
Cycle to Work Scheme
Financial support services
And plenty more!
Join a forward-thinking team driving operational excellence and innovation in wastewater management. Apply today to support the Alarm Rationalisation Project and make a measurable impact on performance, reliability, and environmental outcomes.

Closing Date: 5th February 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

Exeter (Peninsula House)

Yearly salary

31,000 - 35,000

Employment type

Full-time

About South West Water

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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.