Leakage Technician

Jersey Electricity Plc; Oldham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility company in Oldham is seeking a proactive professional for leakage detection in their water network. The role requires teamwork, excellent communication skills, and technical knowledge of leakage detection methods. Key responsibilities include managing leaks, coordinating repairs, and supporting network technicians. A driving license is required. This position offers competitive benefits including a bonus scheme and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Generous annual leave package

Competitive pension scheme

Performance-related bonus

Comprehensive healthcare plan

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven ability to work as part of a high-performance team.
• Experience in water network technical operations, including leakage detection and repair.
• This role requires a full driving license.

Responsibilities

• Undertake proactive leakage detection.
• Manage leaks upstream and identify defective fittings.
• Respond to customer-reported leaks as per procedures.
• Liaise with Repair and Maintenance teams for efficient repairs.

Skills

Knowledge of water network operation

Team collaboration

Technical and customer service skills

Excellent communication

Influencing and negotiation

Customer service orientation

Education

GCSE grade C or above

Job description

About us

United Utilities' (UU) mission is to deliver high-quality water for a more prosperous, greener, and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We are proud to be ranked #4 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List. We promote a workplace culture where our people can grow, excel, and truly be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values, and business model to fulfill our mission. By setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable, long-term value for our colleagues, customers, and communities. Whether you collaborate with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organization.

We've got a lot to offer. You'll be part of a thriving company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and contribution. These include:

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, increasing to 30 days after four years of service, plus 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% total, and life cover
• A 7.5% performance-related bonus scheme, plus recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

The role

To support United Utilities (UU) Water Network in delivering against its regulatory targets and customer promises for leakage control.

This role involves being accountable for proactive and reactive leakage detection activities within District Meter Areas (DMAs) and District Meter Zones (DMZs). It includes deploying and assessing appropriate leakage detection methodologies based on technical requirements.

You will work closely with the Network Maintenance Alliance (NMA) to ensure timely and efficient repair and resolution of leakage issues, including proactive private leakage detection to resolution.

You will be responsible for raising repair requests through the NMA and supporting the repair process to ensure work is conducted safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

Key accountabilities

• Undertake proactive leakage detection using methods such as correlating, sounding, step testing, and data loggers
• Manage leaks upstream of the customer boundary and serve defective fitting (DF) notices when identified
• Identify and detect leaks on the network and customer premises, raising repairs accordingly
• Respond reactively to customer-reported P2 leaks in line with escalation procedures
• Assist in resolving operability issues
• Liaise with Repair and Maintenance teams to ensure repairs are completed efficiently and minimize unnecessary excavations
• Support Water Network Technicians in leak detection related to third-party damage
• Use flow and pressure data to identify areas requiring further leakage detection
• Manage work orders for leak repairs
• Assess risks for planned low-risk network activities with support from Network Technicians or TSO
• Provide support during incidents and events as needed
• Coordinate with Network Technicians for high-risk work risk assessments
• Use turbidity monitors to monitor water quality during leakage activities
• Carry out red-lining activities and ensure PPE and vehicles comply with health and safety policies

Skills & experience

• Knowledge of water network operation and leakage detection techniques
• Proven ability to work as part of a high-performance team, achieving goals and targets
• GCSE grade C or above, City and Guilds, or demonstrable technical and customer service skills
• Experience in water network technical operations, including leakage detection and repair
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Effective influencing and negotiation skills
• Strong customer service orientation and issue resolution skills

This role requires a full driving license.