Base pay range
At Bristol Water we’ve been making people healthier and the economy stronger since 1846. We’ve served generations of families and will serve generations to come. We’re here to have a positive impact on people and the planet for generations. We don’t just give people water – we keep them healthy and help them grow. We work around the clock, testing our water hundreds of times a day. We take this same view with our 600 employees: we don’t just give them jobs in water; we keep them healthy and help them grow. We’re one of the smallest water companies in the UK; being small means we’re nimble and can achieve things quickly for our customers and our people. But while we’re small, we’re also part of a larger family. In June 2021 we became part of the Pennon group, which also owns South West Water and Bournemouth Water. This means that as part of our team, you’ll get the best of both worlds – the dynamism and fast pace of a smaller company, along with the security and breadth of opportunity that comes with being part of a large organisation.
About the Role
As our Water Quality Pilot Scientist, you’ll be at the leading edge of research into flat sheet ceramic membrane technology – a rare opportunity to operate, test and analyse a novel water treatment solution that could transform how we supply clean, safe water to our communities. In this role, you’ll take the lead on daily operation of our pilot plant, design and deliver monitoring programmes, turn complex data into actionable insight, and present your findings to internal teams and industry experts. It’s hands‑on, intellectually challenging, and packed with opportunities to make a real impact.
What you’ll be doing
* Running and maintaining our ceramic membrane pilot plant – testing different operations, assessing membrane performance, optimising backwashes and sustainability metrics
* Designing and delivering a robust monitoring plan to compare pilot performance against existing and alternative solutions
* Evaluating water quality, costs, chemical usage, carbon impacts, waste generation, and more
* Creating dashboards, visuals and reports that bring the science to life
* Presenting progress, insights and recommendations to technical and non‑technical audiences
* Working closely with internal teams, operators, chemical engineers and external technology partners
* Leading research into broader water quality challenges and helping shape future operational practices
* Developing training, guidance and best‑practice materials for safe pilot plant operation
What we’re looking for
* Curiosity, autonomy and motivation to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
* A degree (or equivalent) in a scientific or engineering discipline.
* Demonstrated experience in scientific investigations, research or product trials.
* Strong understanding of water treatment processes or chemical/process engineering.
* Excellent communication skills – written, verbal and data‑driven.
* Experience with reporting tools (Power BI, Business Objects, PRISM/Scopex).
* A full UK driving licence.
* An innovative mindset, positive approach and confidence to work both independently and within a tight‑knit team.
What’s in it for you
* A supportive team environment.
* Opportunity to earn a bonus.
* 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays (you can also buy/sell up to 5 days).
* Pension: we put in 10 % if you put in 6 %.
* Flexible, supportive and friendly working environment.
* Access to flexible benefits and discounts via our portal.
* Opportunity for some home working if agreed by manager.
* Free onsite parking when you’re in the office.
Closing date: 12th December 2025
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:
* 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.
You’ll collaborate with a fantastic cross‑section of Bristol Water – from Water Quality Scientists and operators on the ground, to managers, engineers, project teams and specialist external partners from research institutions to pilot plant manufacturers. Expect plenty of teamwork, knowledge exchange and opportunities to influence the future of water treatment across the business.
At Bristol Water, you’re not just joining a company – you’re becoming part of a purpose‑driven team that cares deeply about people, the environment and doing the right thing.
You’ll play a leading role in real‑world scientific innovation, gain experience at the intersection of research and operations and contribute directly to ensuring safe, sustainable water for our region. No budget responsibility, no direct reports – just pure scientific impact and the freedom to explore ideas that matter.
If you’re excited by scientific discovery, motivated by real‑world impact and ready for a role where every day brings new insight, we’d love to hear from you.
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