Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice

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.

Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice

Location: Cornwall & Devon
Salary: Competitive Apprentice Salary
Start Date: September 2026
Apprenticeship: Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician (with Electrical/Electronic HNC)
Application Deadline: 17th July 2026

About South West Water

At South West Water, we're proud to provide reliable water and wastewater services to millions of customers across the South West.

Behind the scenes, our Digital & IT teams play a vital role in ensuring our operations run safely, securely and efficiently. Our Operational Technology (OT) and SCADA systems enable us to monitor, control and protect critical infrastructure across treatment works, pumping stations and distribution networks in real time.

As an Operational Technology Engineer Apprentice , you'll gain hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification, helping to maintain the technology that keeps essential services flowing and protects both public health and the environment.

What You'll Be Doing

As part of our Digital & IT and Operational Technology teams, you'll develop practical engineering and technical skills while supporting critical operational systems.

During your apprenticeship, you'll:

• Support the installation, configuration and commissioning of SCADA and control systems.

• Assist with the maintenance and improvement of OT systems, including PLCs, RTUs, telemetry and industrial networks.

• Work alongside engineers to diagnose faults and safely support live operational systems.

• Help configure alarms, data trending and reporting tools that support operational decision-making.

• Contribute to OT cyber security activities, including system hardening, access management and backup processes.

• Support project delivery through testing, documentation and system handover activities.

• Learn how automation and control systems support water and wastewater treatment processes.

• Develop safe working practices aligned to health and safety, engineering and operational standards.

Your Apprenticeship Programme

Qualification: Level 4 Automation & Controls Engineering Technician

Academic Pathway: Electrical/Electronic HNC

Learning Approach:

• Workplace-based learning

• Structured technical training

• College or training provider study

Future Opportunities: Successful completion could lead to a permanent Operational Technology Engineering role, with opportunities to progress onto Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications.

This programme is designed to build practical knowledge and competence across:

• Industrial automation

• Control systems

• Instrumentation

• Industrial networks

• Operational technology cyber security

Who We're Looking For

We're looking for motivated individuals who are curious, practical and eager to build a career in engineering and technology.

You'll be a great fit if you:

• Enjoy understanding how technology, systems and physical assets work together.

• Have an interest in engineering, automation, electronics or IT.

• Like solving problems and learning through hands-on experience.

• Communicate effectively and work well as part of a team.

• Have a strong focus on safety and following procedures.

• Are keen to develop new technical skills and knowledge.

No previous experience in OT or SCADA is required — your attitude, enthusiasm and willingness to learn are what matter most.

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

You will typically have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 4/C or above , including:

  • Maths

  • English

  • A Science subject

• Evidence of Level 2 numeracy and literacy (GCSE or equivalent).

• Typically 48 UCAS points , including Maths or a science-based subject.

An interest or background in electrical or electronic engineering would be advantageous.

Alternative Entry Routes

We also welcome applicants who can demonstrate their potential through:

• Relevant work experience.

• Practical engineering or technical skills.

• Completion of an assessment or written task aligned to Level 3 standards.

• Full UK driving licence, or currently working towards obtaining one.

• Ability to meet relevant security and safety requirements.

Recognition of Prior Learning

We value previous qualifications, skills and experience through:

• APL – Accreditation of Prior Learning

• APEL – Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning

What's In It For You?

Earn While You Learn
Gain a nationally recognised Level 4 qualification and Electrical/Electronic HNC while earning a salary.

Hands-On Experience
Work with real-world OT and SCADA systems that support critical infrastructure across the South West.

Structured Development
Benefit from a carefully designed training programme aligned to industry engineering standards.

Mentoring & Support
Learn from experienced engineers and technical specialists who will support your development throughout the programme.

Varied Experience
Gain exposure to operational support, engineering projects, cyber security activities and emerging technologies.

Career Progression
Build a pathway into a fully qualified Operational Technology Engineering role.

Purposeful Work
Play an important role in protecting public health, supporting communities and safeguarding the environment.

Ready to Shape the Future of Operational Technology?

Join South West Water and develop the skills, experience and qualifications needed to become part of the team powering essential services across the South West.

Apply today and start your engineering career with us in September 2026.

Closing Date: 17th July 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.