Water Quality Support Scientist

ob Title: Water Quality Advisor
Company: Northumbrian Water
Location: Flexible within operating area
About the Role
Northumbrian Water is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Water Quality Advisor to join our Water Quality team. This role is central to protecting public health by ensuring the drinking water we supply consistently meets all statutory and regulatory standards.
You’ll act as a trusted advisor across the business, providing expert guidance on water quality matters while supporting operational teams and delivering excellent customer service.
Key Responsibilities
Advice & Customer Support

• Act as the primary point of contact for the Operational Customer Centre of Excellence on water quality matters

• Provide timely, accurate advice to operational departments

• Support the Customer Contact Centre with drinking water quality queries

• Respond to customer complaints and technical enquiries with clear written and verbal scientific advice

Regulatory Compliance

• Assist in preparing regulatory data and reports to strict deadlines

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Local Authorities and Public Health stakeholders

Reporting & Performance

• Collate and analyse operational performance data for internal stakeholders

• Prepare accurate reports for both internal and external customers

• Investigate and report water quality failures

• Support the management and reporting of water quality events

Sampling & Auditing

• Support and monitor sampling programmes to meet regulatory and operational requirements

• Conduct Hygiene Rules of Conduct audits in line with departmental targets

• Undertake laboratory and microbiological audits following water quality breaches

Key Result Areas

• Deliver accurate, high-quality reports within agreed timescales

• Ensure data integrity and ownership of outputs

• Meet customer and regulatory expectations consistently

• Respond to service requests promptly while managing expectations effectively

• Contribute to continuous improvement and personal development

Skills & Experience
Essential

• Strong IT literacy

• Full UK driving licence

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

• Ability to write clear, concise reports

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to work under pressure

Desirable

• Knowledge of water treatment processes, distribution systems, and Water Quality Regulations

Personal Attributes

• Confident in consulting and influencing others

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently

• Committed to high standards and quality outputs

• Strong relationship-building skills

• Proactive approach to continuous learning and development

Why Join Northumbrian Water?
At Northumbrian Water, we’re committed to delivering safe, high-quality drinking water while putting customers and communities at the heart of everything we do. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values innovation, integrity, and professional growth.

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