Joe, Water Production Inspector

What attracted you to Wessex Water and how did you hear about this role?

I felt I needed a change from my current role at a leisure centre, so I applied for a few different apprenticeships. I was offered two positions and I chose this one. It was the best decision I ever made. 

What does your job entail and what do you most enjoy about the role?

Work starts at 8am and finishes at 4.30pm unless we have had a call out for a fault. We get the kettle on while checking the computer which monitors everything. If there are any issues, we action those straight away. After that, there are lots of different monitors on site that need maintenance, calibrating and looking after. We have a daily task sheet, which is six pages long, that we work through. We ensure that the process in the plant is working to ensure we are not wasting any chemicals or time.

We also look after different sites in Exmoor and perform regular site visits and reservoir site inspections. At times we also have to release water back into the environment, in line with Environmental Agency rules. There is a specific process of releasing water downstream of the dam to make sure we don't harm wildlife. We make sure the valve is working properly to keep the levels correct.

I was proud when I completed my apprenticeship. Getting a full-time role and a job at the end of the process has been really good. Wessex Water puts you through lots of different training as well. I've done confined space, forklift and working at heights training. It has opened my eyes up to a lot more.

Tell us about your team and what you like most about working with them

There are five of us on-site, it's great. There's a lot of breaking down why something has happened and how we can fix it without compromising water quality. We have a laugh and good fun, but we also make sure the work is done to a high standard to keep customers supplied with water. I am trying to gain as much experience as I can working with the others in the team who have been here for a long time.

Where do you see your career progressing in the next five years?

In the future, I want to move into a management role if possible. My aim is to work my way up the ladder.