About Bristol Water
Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose. At Bristol Water, we’ve been serving generations of families since 1846. Ensuring people in our communities have access to healthy water is paramount, which is why we work around the clock testing our water hundreds of times a day. We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals include lowering our carbon footprint, planting 300,000 trees, restoring peatlands, and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife. Whether you’re starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.
Repair & Maintenance Unit Leader
This role is full-time and field‑based, covering the operating areas of Bristol Water. The successful candidate will be part of a standby rota to ensure emergencies are covered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Carry repair work to strategic mains systems in the event of operational failure.
- Carry out excavation and temporary works to locate and repair leaks, install new apparatus to the trunk mains network street works, traffic management, backfill and reinstatement.
- Act as on‑site leader and ensure all works are carried out to specification and standards.
- Accountable for ordering the correct materials (stone, concrete) and equipment (barriers, diggers, slews) to site to minimise duration and costs.
- Carry out pre‑site surveys and report back information required to Construction Manager.
- Liaise with Highways Officials, contractors, external stakeholders and landowners.
- Prepare openings in the public highway of private land, or work in conjunction with the contract excavator drier, to prepare for work on the main pipes and fittings.
- Construct trench support systems as required and necessary chlorination of pipes and fittings.
- Operate all construction plan and equipment and highlight any defective equipment to the Construction Manager.
- Ensure health and safety is priority on call job and advise all members of the team and site visitors on any health and safety issues.
- Drive and operate LGV Class C and C+E vehicles.
- Be part of a 24 hour, 365 days a year standby rota to provide emergency cover.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who takes pride in their work and is committed, flexible and keen to develop their skills.
Qualifications
The following experience and certifications are desirable, but not essential. Full training and relevant qualifications will be provided after successful completion of the probation period.
- Previous utility experience in excavation, backfill, reinstatement, and repair and maintenance of large diameter mains.
- Full UK driving licence (Category C and C+E).
- SHOC Cat & Genny trained.
- National Water Hygiene (EUSR registration).
- NRSWA Streetworks (Units 1–9).
- CPCS – Plant Operations (Blue Card).
- COSHH training.
- Abrasive wheels certification.
- Trained in kinetic manual handling techniques.
- Ability to demonstrate compliance with kinetic manual handling requirements.
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive annual leave with the opportunity to buy and sell to offer more flexibility.
- The opportunity to earn more through standby/on‑call arrangements.
- Access to thousands of discounts and vouchers through Pennon Perks.
- Employee assistance programme with access to 24/7 support.
- Company bonus scheme.
- Competitive company pension scheme.
- Supportive, friendly team passionate about the work that they deliver.
Closing Date
3rd June 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Additional Information
Please note that the successful candidate will be subject to a mandatory DBS check as part of the onboarding process.
Our Core Values
- Be Rock Solid – Build trust and be trusted. Be the one we all look to and can depend on.
- Be You – Bring your best everyday. Be yourself and make your mark in your individual way.
- Be the Future – Embrace change. Drive progress. Own the challenge.
Bristol Water has been proudly providing an essential public water service to the communities within and surrounding the city of Bristol since 1846. We supply water to 500,000 homes and businesses across Bristol City, North Somerset and areas of Bath, North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire. That’s about 1.2 million people who have access to our water every day!
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