- Oficina en Exeter
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.
About the role:
As our Laboratory Scientist, you will be using your methodical skills, blended with analytical expertise to undertake the chemical analysis of samples associated with the company’s activities including commercial contracts. You will be part of a working environment where you will be taking ownership and responsibility for your own workload and working collaboratively as a part of a team. This role requires you to be flexible around workload and rota patterns, as well as being able to demonstrate your ability to remain calm under pressure. If you thrive on challenge and are looking to develop your skills - this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Shift Patterns:
Working 37 hours per week, the role requires working on a rota pattern specific to the department, including weekends and bank holidays. Working hours are typically 9:00 to 18:15. However, some flexibility is required to ensure essential analysis is completed by day end. Enhancements are paid for weekend/bank holiday working.
What You Will be Doing:
- Undertaking Chemical analysis by approved company methods and maintaining good laboratory records required for an accredited laboratory
- Adhering to the requirements of our UKAS accreditation to meet ISO 17025 as described in our Quality Manual, for example, auditing, proficiency testing, validation
- Maintaining a record of Continuing Professional Development and proof of your ongoing competence
- Using information and data on samples to determine result validity, and form decisions regarding certification and instigation of further actions
- Reporting of results to customers and answering internal customer queries as required
- Investigating and documenting procedure breeches through non-conforming work
- Being involved, as necessary in the training of other laboratory personnel
- Complying with and improvement of Health & Safety procedures
- Once trained participate in a stand-by rota for provision of emergency service out of hours as required
What We Are Looking For:
- Applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs or equivalent in Maths and English and a Science subject
- Applicants must have a minimum of an A level / BTEC level 3 in a Chemistry field
- Computer literate including experience of Microsoft Office packages (Word, Excel)
- Experience of working on own initiative and as part of a team
- Good communication skills, both verbal and written
- Organised with a methodical approach to workload and ability to prioritise
- Excellent attention to detail with well-honed problem-solving skills
- Willing to participate in Laboratory Scientist progression scheme to develop skills and increase responsibilities
- Experience of working in an ISO 17025 environment (desirable but not essential)
- Ideal for an individual who has recently qualified in a science related field or is looking to develop their skills to build a scientific career.
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:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- Buy or sell annual leave to offer you extra flexibility
- Buy a bike and safety equipment tax-free, through our Cycle to Work scheme
- We offer free car parking at the majority of our sites
- Take up to 26 weeks’ additional maternity leave
- Share your parental leave and split your time off to care for your child how you choose
- Invest in Pennon Group plc through our employee share schemes
- We support our people by offering a free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme
- Look after your wellbeing with our Champion Health support platform
- Enjoy free eye tests and discounts on frames and lenses at Specsavers
- 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
- A range of group discounts: The Dell Advantage Programme, Virgin Media Affinity Scheme, Vodaphone Advantage and more
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
- And plenty more!
Closing Date: 26th January 2026
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.
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