The Role
To support United Utilities (UU) Water Network in delivering its regulatory targets and customer promises for leakage control. The role is accountable for proactive and reactive leakage detection activities within District Meter Areas (DMAs) and upstream within District Meter Zones (DMZs). Responsibilities include deploying and assessing appropriate leakage detection methodologies based on technical requirements, liaising with the Network Maintenance Alliance (NMA) to ensure timely and efficient repair, and providing proactive private leakage detection and resolution. The role also involves raising correct repairs through to the NMA and supporting the NMA to ensure repairs are undertaken safely, customer‑focused, timely, and cost‑effective.
Key Accountabilities
* Undertake proactive leakage detection using suitable methods (correlating, sounding, step testing, data loggers).
* Manage leaks upstream of the customer boundary and serve defective fitting (DF) notices when identified.
* Identify and detect leaks on the Network and on customer premises, raising repairs to the NMA.
* Perform reactive leakage detection for customer‑reported P2 leaks where operational needs arise, following the agreed escalation process.
* Assist in resolving operability issues.
* Liaise with Repair and Maintenance teams to ensure repairs are completed and unnecessary excavations are minimized.
* Provide leakage assistance to Water Network Technicians for third‑party damage on the water network.
* Interpret and use flow and pressure data to identify areas of interest for further leakage detection activity.
* Raise and manage work for leak repairs.
* Assess appropriate network leakage activities and undertake planned work risk assessments for low‑risk activities with support from Network Technician or TSO, in line with the agreed process.
* Provide support to other network colleagues during incidents and events as required.
* Liaise with Network Technicians for high‑risk planned work risk assessments.
* Use turbidity monitors as required to monitor water quality as part of Network Operations/leakage activities.
* Carry out red‑lining activities.
* Ensure PPE and vehicles comply with UU Health and Safety policies.
Skills & Experience
* Knowledge and experience in the operation of water networks and leakage detection techniques.
* Demonstrated competency to work as part of a high‑performance team, achieving goals, objectives and scorecard measures.
* GCSE grade C or above, City & Guilds, or proof of technical and customer skills.
* Demonstrable water network technical experience, including leakage detection and repair.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Effective influencing and negotiation skills.
* Strong customer service focus and ability to resolve customer issues.
This role requires a full driving licence.
Benefits
* Generous annual leave package of 26 days (increases to 30 days after four years, plus one day per year), plus 8 bank holidays.
* Competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution (21% combined) and life cover.
* Up to 7.5% performance‑related bonus scheme and recognition awards for outstanding achievements.
* Comprehensive healthcare plan through a company‑funded scheme.
* MyGym discounts – up to 25% off gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions.
* Best Doctors.
* Salary Finance.
* Wealth at Work courses.
* Deals and discounts.
* EVolve Car Scheme.
* Employee Assistance Plan.
* Mental health first aiders.
* ShareBuy.
* MORE Choices flexible benefits.
* Enhanced parental leave schemes.
Salary
£36,620
Work Type
Onsite
Job Location
Blackburn waste water treatment works, Cuerdale Lane Samlesbury, Blackburn, Lancashire PR5 0UY
Role Type
Permanent
Employment Type
Full Time
Working Hours
37.0 Hours per Week
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