Water Quality Scientist

  • South West Water
  • Mallaig, Inverness-shire
  • Mar 19, 2026
Full time Biotech Science

Job Description

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose

South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK's most stunning landscapes.

We're proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we're working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore 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.

Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.

Are you an enthusiastic and hardworking individual who can work efficiently and learn new skills to deliver essential scientific support?

Essential

  • 5 GCSEs or equivalent in Maths, English and Science preferably Biology

  • Organised and methodical in nature

  • Ability to follow procedures both in sampling techniques and laboratory analysis

  • Proven ability to work within a team but also on your own

  • Effective communicator and good team player

  • Ability to learn new skills and to obtain additional required competencies /professional membership

  • Willingness and commitment to gain Royal Society of Biology membership and NVQ level 3 in a biology related subject through distance learning (24 months)

Desirable - in addition:

  • A level Science, HNC or degree in Science (Preferably Biology) or relevant experience

  • Understanding of relevant legislation and audit processes

  • Previous laboratory or field work

  • Knowledge and understanding of basic water testing and analysis

  • Application and understanding of associated legislation and policy

What's in it for you:

We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long-term career with us.

In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:

Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays

  • Flexibility payment

  • Competitive Contributory Pension

  • Share-save Scheme

  • Various health benefits

  • Wellbeing support programmes

  • A range of Group Discounts

  • Cycle to Work Scheme

  • Financial support services

Closing Date:Wednesday 8th April

If you are looking for a new challenge, and require further detail, please review and apply through

Or if you prefer, please send your CV and covering letter to

If you would like an informal chat about the role, please email Scott Reid or call Helen on and this can be arranged

Closing Date: 8th April

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.