The Asset Operations function forms the cornerstone of service delivery to customers, protecting the environment and meeting regulatory standards, while managing the majority of operational expenditure. This function has responsibility for operational and maintenance strategy, policies, planning, and standard operating procedures for Water and Wastewater operations both nationally and regionally, ensuring value for money and high-quality customer service delivery.
The Water and Wastewater Operations team is responsible for the regional delivery of water and wastewater operational services through the operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of treatment and network assets.
The Senior Operative - Water/Wastewater Network Maintenance & Repair is responsible for supporting the delivery of planned and reactive maintenance and repair activities across water and wastewater network infrastructure in a safe and compliant manner. The role provides day-to-day leadership and direction on site to ensure consistent and efficient service delivery.
Out-of-hours working will be required, and appropriate overtime and standby arrangements will apply. While roles may ultimately be aligned to either water or wastewater operations, flexibility may initially be required depending on operational needs.
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Supervise planned and reactive maintenance and repair activities across water and wastewater network infrastructure in a safe and hygienic manner, including:
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Repairs of bursts and leaks
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Maintenance of water mains and service connections
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Replacement of associated fittings, valves, hydrants, and meters
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Maintenance of customer boundary boxes
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Cleaning of service reservoirs
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Testing of pipes and pumps following repairs
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Assisting with sewer surveys
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Identifying heavy infiltration or stormwater ingress
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Investigating network issues and identifying required interventions
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Clearing blockages and responding to alarms
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Ensure prompt response to alarms, provision of emergency cover, and resolution of incidents affecting network infrastructure assets.
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Undertake supervisory responsibilities relating to mains rehabilitation, main laying, connections, meter installations, and other network activities in line with skills and experience.
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Monitor chemical dosing at pumping stations and support compliance and sampling teams with operational sampling activities (including new mains, burst repairs, and failures), reporting analysis results as required.
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Direct maintenance and repair of non-domestic water meters, including site investigations, removal and replacement of meters, and liaison with relevant internal teams.
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Supervise teams in communicating with customers regarding issues and resolutions. Investigate and follow up on escalated complaints to support consistent customer service delivery and manage public health and compliance risks.
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Support customer-facing teams where works impact service delivery.
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Ensure accurate and timely recording of operational data using designated technology systems, including:
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Logging investigations
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Raising follow-on work requests
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Updating health and safety records
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Managing inventory records
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Monitor works undertaken and manage material requisitions. Ensure all incidents are accurately documented with full details.
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Ensure compliance with all health and safety procedures, including risk assessments (Safe System of Work Plans), use of PPE, and adherence to Construction Regulations.
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Ensure vehicles and machinery are operated responsibly in line with organisational vehicle, health, safety, and security policies. Maintain appropriate stock levels in vehicles.
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Ensure team adherence to allocated schedules and standard operating procedures, supporting the development and implementation of updated procedures where required.
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Coordinate with third parties and contractors undertaking network activities.
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Issue permits to work and ensure contractor compliance with health and safety requirements.
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Engage with internal and external stakeholders, including landowners, contractors, and regulatory representatives as required.
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Track and monitor team activities, update timesheets, sign off on attendance, support performance evaluation, and assist with reporting requirements.
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Drive operational efficiency, conduct inspections of completed works, and identify training needs within the team.
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Provide cover and support to other operations teams as required.
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Carry out any additional duties reasonably requested by management.
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Secondary level education or equivalent relevant work experience.
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Minimum two years' relevant experience in a similar operational role.
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Previous experience supervising or managing teams within a strong health and safety culture (desirable).
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Experience in a water or wastewater network environment (advantageous).
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Knowledge of water/wastewater network infrastructure and operations (advantageous).
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Practical experience in maintenance and repair of water and/or wastewater networks (preferred).
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Full, clean, and valid Category B driving licence (minimum requirement). Additional licence categories are advantageous.
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Experience using IT systems.
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Strong problem-solving skills.
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Demonstrable customer service experience.
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Ability to work, following full training and risk assessment, in environments that may be uncomfortable or potentially hazardous, including:
(Subject to successful completion of an occupational health assessment.)
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Good literacy skills.
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Experience working within water services and/or utilities sector (advantageous).
