At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate. We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area. And we have huge ambitions. Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come. So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater. Are you looking for a new and rewarding role where you can put your hands-on skills to good use and offers opportunities to develop? Do you want to join a friendly team and travel around the beautiful locations of the South West? About the role: We currently have a fantastic opportunity available for a Grounds Maintenance Operator to join our team based in Exeter. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a competitive salary of £25,274 per annum + excellent benefits. You will carry out a range of summer grass cutting and winter grounds and building maintenance activities at various sites across Drinking Water Services, under the guidance of the Minor Works Team Leaders, and the DWS Central Support Manager and will support the optimisation of work schedules in liaison with the Central Support Administrator.
What you'll be doing:
1. Travel to and from your home to your work base in your own vehicle
2. Travel to various South West locations from your base in a South West Water vehicle
3. Complete reactive and planned grounds and general maintenance work across SWW assets including, but not limited to:
4. Grass Cutting, Strimming, Hedge Trimming, Tree Work (at ground level),
5. Path repairs and maintenance – gravel, concrete, slabs, Step repairs and maintenance,
6. Cover repairs and replacements,
7. Woodwork & door furniture repairs and maintenance, Roof gutter repairs and maintenance,
8. Painting and decorating,
9. Periodic cleaning of water treatment process tanks (open to atmosphere),
10. Complete accurate and timely feedback of activities,
11. Adhere to schedules, business rules and procedures
12. Liaise with the Minor Works Team Leaders & Central Support Administrator to ensure that all work schedules are optimised
13. Assist with the resolution of customer queries when directly approached in a calm and friendly manner and pass information to management when appropriate
14. Ensure all work is carried out with due consideration of health and safety and in accordance with Safe Systems of Work
15. Ensure that all activities enhance the reputation and image of the company
16. Use powered plant and equipment, hand tools and chemicals
What we are looking for:
17. A full UK Driving Licence – Essential, to include classification B+E – Preferable
18. Experience of operating grounds maintenance machinery – Preferable but not essential
19. Experience of general building repairs & maintenance – Preferable but not essential
20. Experience of working in a team and an understanding of the importance of teamwork – Preferable
21. Ability to adhere to Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work
22. Knowledge of health & safety principles & working safely
23. A flexible approach to working hours to meet work demands
24. A “can do” attitude with a desire to learn, understand and adopt a flexible approach to support the business
25. A good level of maths and IT – Preferable
What's in it for you:
At South West Water, we don’t all do the same job, but we each get out of bed in the morning knowing that every day is a chance to make incredible things happen, together. In return for our people’s hard work and commitment, we offer an excellent range of benefits:
26. Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
27. Buy or sell annual leave to offer you extra flexibility
28. Buy a bike and safety equipment tax-free, through our Cycle to Work scheme
29. We offer free car parking at the majority of our sites
30. Take up to 26 weeks’ additional maternity leave
31. Share your parental leave and split your time off to care for your child how you choose
32. Invest in Pennon Group plc through our employee share schemes
33. We support our people by offering a free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme
34. Look after your wellbeing with our Champion Health support platform
35. Enjoy free eye tests and discounts on frames and lenses at Specsavers
36. Enjoy access to thousands of deals and discounts on supermarkets, high street shops, online retailers, travel, eating out, cinemas, gyms and much more though Perkbox
37. A range of group discounts: The Dell Advantage Programme, Virgin Media Affinity Scheme, Vodaphone Advantage and more
38. A discretionary Bonus
39. Competitive Contributory Pension
40. And plenty more!
Closing Date: 6th May 2025 If you are looking for a new challenge, please click apply now to be considered as our Grounds Maintenance Operator - we look forward to receiving your application.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.