At South West Water we believe that the strongest businesses are built on solid, stable foundations - with a vision and a culture that gives them the freedom to change, improve and innovate. We’re proud to be responsible for providing reliable, efficient and high-quality drinking water and wastewater services for the beautiful South West area. And we have huge ambitions. Not only are we committed to reaching net-zero by 2030, but we’ve also partnered with Wildlife Trusts, National Parks and local partners to help ensure a better future for generations to come. So, if you want to be part of a diverse team where opportunities flow and fresh ideas are welcomed, #JustAddWater. Do you enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions? Are you looking for a role where you can utilise both technical skills and provide excellent customer service? We currently have a fantastic opportunity available for a Meter Reader to join our team based in Newton Abbot. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis, and in return, you will receive a starting salary of £24,125 per annum. In the development of this role, you will be supported with a levels 1 to 3 Metering Progression Scheme, plus a range of excellent company benefits, rewards and a work van. About the role: As a Meter Reader, you will play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely meter readings for the billing of all our measured customers, both household and non-household, while ensuring our DG6 (Billing) & DG7 (Complaints) standards are met. While much of the work is independent, you will also collaborate with team members locally and regionally when needed. You will operate in various weather conditions and environments, including urban and rural areas. Your responsibilities will include driving, walking, and lifting to locate meters, clearing chambers of mud, water, and insects, and managing your workload efficiently to meet targets and deadlines. You will also update and maintain meter reading routes, including GPS locations, ensuring our service is comprehensive and reliable. In addition to the physical aspects of the job, you will be responsible for maintaining vehicles and equipment, including scheduling MOTs and services, and ensuring all tools are in good working order. Basic IT skills are necessary for reporting and route management, and effective communication with customers and colleagues is essential. Progression Scheme: As part of your employment package, the successful candidate will enrol onto a bespoke progression scheme framework and embark on a rewarding career path. This scheme reintroduces vital skills such as Flow Testing, Leak Investigation, and Meter Exchanges, adding variety to your role and enhancing your knowledge. As you progress through the 3 levels, you'll receive hands-on training and continuous support, ensuring you grow professionally. Our commitment to your development is reinforced by clear salary increments, regular appraisals, and one-on-one reviews with your manager, ensuring your hard work is recognised and rewarded. What you’ll be doing:
- Ensuring efficient and productive use of time and mileage
- Undertaking scheduled reading to ensure the target is met
- Undertaking unscheduled reads to ensure all DG targets & NHH (Non-Household) targets are met
- Reporting defective meter installations, so remedial works can be organised
- Communicating effectively with internal and external customers
- Maintaining a Company vehicle and equipment to ensure in good working order
- Reporting suspected meter fraud for further investigation
- Reporting water meters which are not set up on the billing system
- Take responsibility for personal Health and Safety & following our Homesafe guidance & procedures
- Undertaking any other duties required by the Company
What we are looking for:
- A full UK driving licence
- Basic IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office
- Good communication skills
- Experience of front-line customer service
- Proven ability to deliver targets and goals
- Ability to manage time and workload independently
- Excellent local geographical knowledge
- Capable of walking and maintaining physical activity throughout the working day
- An understanding of water related operational procedures (desirable)
What's in it for you:
At South West Water, we don’t all do the same job, but we each get out of bed in the morning knowing that every day is a chance to make incredible things happen, together. In return for our people’s hard work and commitment, we offer an excellent range of benefits:
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- Buy or sell annual leave to offer you extra flexibility
- Buy a bike and safety equipment tax-free, through our Cycle to Work scheme
- We offer free car parking at the majority of our sites
- Take up to 26 weeks’ additional maternity leave
- Share your parental leave and split your time off to care for your child how you choose
- Invest in Pennon Group Plc through our employee share schemes
- We support our people by offering a free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme
- Look after your wellbeing with our Champion Health support platform
- Enjoy free eye tests and discounts on frames and lenses at Specsavers
- Enjoy access to thousands of deals and discounts on supermarkets, high street shops, online retailers, travel, eating out, cinemas, gyms and much more though Perkbox
- A range of group discounts: The Dell Advantage Programme, Virgin Media Affinity Scheme, Vodafone Advantage and more
- A discretionary Bonus
- Competitive Contributory Pension
Closing Date: Wednesday 18th September 2024 If you are looking for a new challenge, please click apply now to be considered as our Meter Reader - we look forward to receiving your application. 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.