Ready to own your future? At Scottish Water, our Modern Apprenticeships arenât about sitting in classrooms all day. Theyâre designed to get you out there, hands-on, learning real skills from the start. Youâll earn while you learn, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and build a career that actually matters. \n\nFresh out of school? Ready for a career switch? Whatever your story, weâve got opportunities that challenge you, support you, and help you grow. \n\nJoin our Waste Water Treatment team in Shetland Mainland from August 2026. \n\nWhat does a Waste Water Treatment Modern Apprentice do? \n\nAs a Waste Water Treatment Modern Apprentice, youâll be learning how we treat waste water and return it safely to the environment. Youâll gain hands-on experience alongside a skilled team, developing the knowledge and skills needed to protect Scotlandâs rivers, seas, and communities. \n\nYouâll learn how to monitor and maintain treatment processes, from sedimentation to filtration. Youâll be trained to take samples, check test results, and log important data - helping to identify issues and improve how we work. \n\nYouâll also learn how to carry out regular maintenance, keeping equipment safe and reliable. From inspections to safety procedures, youâll be taught how to work safely and protect the environment. \n\nItâs about more than meeting regulations - itâs about learning to go further, solve problems, and help Scotlandâs water industry stay clean, safe, and sustainable. Your journey with us \n\nModern Apprenticeships combine on-the-job learning, with the opportunity to complete vocational qualifications. Supported by our in-house Skills Academy team, each apprentice has both a day-to-day line manager, and a personal assessor who supports them through their qualification and ensures their training is of the highest standard. \n\nOver three years, youâll receive dedicated training to become a fully qualified Waste Water Treatment Operator, gaining the skills and confidence to make a real impact. \n\nHow to effectively treat high volumes of waste water to make it safe \n\nHow to collect and test waste water samples \n\nHow to monitor and analyse readings from the meters and gauges on site and spot malfunctions \n\nHow to use the software, apps, and technology we use to monitor the water supply \n\nHow to work in a way that keeps you and your colleagues safe and healthy. \n\nA lot of your time will be spent outdoors. But in Scotland we all know that there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing. So, weâll make sure youâre kitted out for whatever Mother Nature throws at us. \n\nYouâll be part of an expert, experienced team who will support you to develop your skills and knowledge while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. This is your chance to earn as you learn, working with industry-leading teams to help deliver services that are essential to the daily lives of the people of Scotland. \n\nOnce youâve reached a certain point in your training, youâll be included in our Out-of-Hours rota. That means you might occasionally be called into work outside your normal hours to investigate or fix a problem. Youâll earn some extra money each month for this, whether youâre called in or not. \n\nWhatâs in it for you? \n\nYouâll challenge and stretch yourself. Weâre here to help you make the most of your skills and abilities with first-class training, support, and a big investment in your development. \n\nYou will qualify with a Water Industry SVQ at SCQF Level 6. From your 2nd year, youâll get the option to do an HNC in Water Operations. And be supported through your qualification by trainers and assessors from our in-house Skills Academy. \n\nEarn as you learn. Youâll start on £24,352, with clear, scheduled pay increases as you reach key milestones throughout your training. Youâll also be eligible for an annual bonus and a great pension scheme. \n\nJob security. The vast majority of our apprentices choose to stay with us after completing their programmes. Many people even spend their entire careers with us! Some go on to become team leaders or managers, while others focus on honing their technical expertise.\n\nYouâll be providing an essential service to Scotland and your local community, helping to protect our natural environment. \n\nAnd the best bit? Youâll be working as part of a friendly, close-knit team that genuinely wants to see you succeed - and who make coming into work fun. \n What youâll need \n\nYou need to be at least 17 years old by 1 August 2026. \n\nA responsible attitude to learning and work is essential. Youâll be someone people can trust and rely on. \n\nIdeally, youâll have five National 4 or 5s (or similar). English, Maths and Science are particularly helpful, but they arenât a dealbreaker. \n\nA driving licence would be useful - but we know that lessons and tests are expensive. If you havenât had the chance to pass your test, we can provide support to help you get your licence during your first year with us. \n\nIn terms of requirements? Thatâs it. \n\nBut hereâs the thing: We get lots of applications for our apprentice roles each year. What makes the best candidates stand out? \n\nHere are a few things we love to see: \n\nCVs that tell us more than what qualifications you have gained. Show us what you love. What are your aspirations? \n\nCover letters that tell us why youâre interested in Scottish Water (and in this role particularly). We recommend including cover letters in the same document as your CV. \n\nA note to women considering an apprenticeship \n\nWeâre proud to see more women joining our apprenticeship programmes every year, but thereâs still work to do. Women are underrepresented in some of these roles, and weâre committed to changing that. \n\nIf youâre reading this and wondering if an apprenticeship is right for you, hereâs the answer: it is. \n\nApprenticeships are for anyone with curiosity, drive, and a willingness to learn. If that sounds like you, weâd love to see you apply. \n\nAt Scottish Water, youâll find a supportive network of women and men whoâve got your back. Whether youâre out in the field, in the lab, or in the office, youâll be part of a team thatâs here to help you grow, succeed, and feel like you belong - because you do. \n\nThe not-so-small print \n\nWeâre accepting applications until midnight on Sunday 22 March 2026. \n\nThere will be some fun (no, honestly!) online assessment activity in April. Interviews will happen during May and June. And weâre aiming to get all our new apprentices started in August.