Leakage Technician

IES Utilities Group Ltd.; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

IES Utilities Group is seeking an experienced Water Leakage Technician to support leakage detection and network performance across the Sussex area. You will utilise specialist techniques to minimise leakage and improve network efficiency, working with operational teams and client representatives to meet safety and client requirements.

The role involves planning daily workloads, conducting surveys and investigations, and maintaining accurate records while complying with health and safety

Qualifications

• Experience in leakage detection, water network operations or utility infrastructure.
• Full UK Driving Licence and comfortable driving a company van.
• Strong understanding of health and safety when working on operational utility networks.

Responsibilities

• Carry out proactive and reactive leakage detection across clean water networks.
• Identify and locate underground leaks on trunk mains and distribution networks.
• Investigate customer reports and network anomalies to identify leakage issues.
• Record findings using client and company reporting systems and support emergency investigations.

Skills

Water distribution knowledge

Leak detection equipment experience

Data analysis

Independent multi-site work

Education

Full UK Driving Licence

Tools

Acoustic logging equipment

Correlators

Ground microphones

Pipe tracing equipment

Job description

Job Title: Leakage Technician

Location: Competitive and dependent on experience

Location: Sussex (surrounding areas)

Contract: Permanent / Contract

About IES

IES Utilities Group is a leading UK utility provider delivering end-to-end multi-discipline solutions. Our teams operate across Power, Gas, Water, Telecoms, District Heating and Renewables, providing survey, design, construction and maintenance services nationwide.

With a commitment to innovation, safety and sustainability, IES supports clients in building and maintaining resilient, future-ready infrastructure networks across the UK.

About The Role

Due to continued growth within our Water Division, we are seeking an experienced Water Leakage Technician to support the delivery of leakage detection and network performance activities across multiple sites throughout the Sussex area.

The Water Leakage Technician will play a key role in identifying, locating and assisting in the reduction of water loss across the distribution network. Through planned leakage detection programmes and reactive investigations, you will utilise a variety of specialist techniques and technologies to minimise leakage and improve network efficiency.

Working closely with operational teams, repair crews, network technicians and client representatives, you will ensure leakage activities are completed safely, accurately and in accordance with company and client requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Leakage Detection and Network Investigation

• Carry out proactive and reactive leakage detection activities across clean water distribution networks.
• Undertake leakage surveys using a range of detection methods including:
• Acoustic listening
• Correlation
• Step testing
• Acoustic logging
• Ground microphone surveys
• Pipe tracing
• Pressure analysis
• Identify and accurately locate underground leaks on both trunk mains and distribution networks.
• Investigate customer reports, network anomalies and high-consumption areas to identify potential leakage issues.
• Assess leakage severity and provide clear recommendations for repair priorities.
• Support network optimisation initiatives aimed at reducing water loss and improving performance.

Operational Delivery

• Plan and organise daily workloads to maximise productivity and meet client performance targets.
• Complete all required surveys, inspections and investigations within agreed timescales.
• Accurately record findings using client and company reporting systems.
• Support emergency response activities and out-of-hours investigations when required.

Asset Knowledge and Technical Experience

• Maintain a strong understanding of water distribution networks, pressure management zones, DMA operations and network hydraulics.
• Interpret network drawings, GIS data and utility records to support leakage investigations.
• Ensure all leak detection equipment is maintained, calibrated and operated correctly.
• Keep up to date with emerging technologies and best practices in leakage detection and water network management.

Health and Safety

• Promote and maintain a strong safety-first culture across all activities.
• Ensure all works are completed in accordance with company procedures, client requirements and industry standards.
• Complete risk assessments and follow safe systems of work.
• Identify and report hazards, near misses and safety concerns.
• Carry out all duties with consideration for environmental impact and public safety.
• Complete a daily van check.

Skills & Experience

• Knowledge of water supply configurations, distribution networks and hydraulic principles.
• Technical expertise in methods used to account for water network usage and leakage management.
• Experience using leak detection equipment, acoustic logging systems, correlators, ground microphones and pipe tracing equipment.
• Understanding of DMA operations, pressure management and network performance monitoring.
• Ability to analyse data, interpret findings and accurately pinpoint leakage locations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to innovate and adapt in challenging situations.
• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to investigations.
• Good communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently across multiple sites.
• Strong commitment to health, safety, quality and customer service.

Qualifications

Essential

• Experience within leakage detection, water network operations or utility infrastructure.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Comfortable driving a company van.
• Good understanding of health and safety requirements when working on operational utility networks.

Desirable

• EUSR Water Hygiene Card.
• NRSWA Street Works Qualification.
• SHEA Water.
• First Aid at Work.
• Utility locating qualification.
• Experience working within water utility contracts.