Operational Technology Apprentice

Anglian Water; Colchester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading water utility company is seeking an enthusiastic Operational Technology Apprentice in Colchester, Essex. You'll learn to maintain and repair the technology that monitors water systems, working with experienced technicians. Ideal candidates will have GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science (grades 9-4/A*-C), or Level 2 Functional Skills, and a passion for the environment. The role offers a supportive environment with mentorship and the potential for nationally recognized qualifications without student debt.

Benefits

Paid holidays

Private healthcare

Pension

Gym and retail discounts

Qualifications

• English, Maths and Science GCSE's (grades 9-4/A*-C) accepted.
• Genuine interest in the water industry and protecting the environment.
• Good communication skills and a team mindset.

Responsibilities

• Learn to repair, maintain and install equipment that monitors and controls water systems.
• Work with technology like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), telemetry systems and communication networks.
• Fix faults and report problems, choosing the best solution.

Job description

Location - Colchester, Essex
Start date - August 2026
Starting Salary: £18,000 (increasing to £23,500 in your second year!)
Right to Work in the UK: To be considered for this role you must currently have right to work in the UK.

Our Operational Technology Support team maintain and repair the technology that automates and remotely monitors our pipes, pumps, reservoirs, and treatment works. The team supports the biggest remote m monitoring (telemetry) system in the UK water industry, and the 1000's of programmable control systems installed on our 5800 sites. This work is crucial for us to ensure our plant remains running automatically and will communicate plant alarms to our main operational control room in the event of an issue on site.

If you are practical, knowledgeable on computer systems and interested in learning about automation and monitoring systems - come and join us and be a part of this essential work, by becoming an Operational Technology Apprentice.

What you'll do:

• Learn to repair, maintain, and install equipment that monitors and controls water systems.
• Work with technology like:
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • Telemetry systems (remote monitoring and alarms)
  • Communication networks
• Fix faults and report problems, using your training to choose the best solution.
• Work alongside experienced technicians and follow health & safety rules
• Take ownership of your development and contribute to team success

What we're looking for:

• English, Maths and Science GCSE's (grades 9-4/A*-C), we can also accept Level 2 Functional Skills - predicted grades will be accepted if you have not yet completed your exams
• Genuine interest in the water industry and protecting the environment
• Good communication skills and a team mindset
• Willingness to work outdoors and learn new things

If you do not currently hold a full manual UK driving licence, you'll need to obtain one by the end of year two of the programme, or if this isn't possible due to your age, within one year of your 17th birthday.

What's in it for you:

• Mentor and full support network
• Paid holidays, private healthcare, pension, gym and retail discounts
• Work towards Nationally Recognised Qualifications without incurring student debt

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds-bring your passion, curiosity, and your true self!

Applications close: Friday 23rd January 2026

Next Steps: Submit your CV and answer five screening questions to share more about you and your motivations for applying. If successful, you may be selected to a site tour/meet the team at a local site to gain an understanding of the role. If shortlisted, you'll be invited to an in-person final stage assessment centre locally in Basildon on 26th February 2026.