Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant

AnaVation LLC; Exeter; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional water service provider is looking for an Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant to enhance alarm systems across sewage facilities. The role involves data management, technical support, and collaboration with operational teams to streamline alarm processes. Candidates should have relevant technical qualifications and experience with SCADA systems. A competitive salary between £31,000 and £35,000 is offered along with various employee benefits.

Benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Discretionary bonus

Competitive contributory pension

Various health benefits

Wellbeing support programmes

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with SCADA or industrial control systems.
• Proficient in data visualization tools such as Power BI.
• Strong analytical and data management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Support delivery of Alarm Rationalisation Project delivering efficiencies.
• Review, label, and optimize alarms in SCADA systems.
• Generate clear reports on alarm performance and anomalies.

Skills

Data analysis

Technical support

Stakeholder engagement

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

HNC/HND or equivalent in relevant technical discipline

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Power BI

SCADA systems

Job description

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.

A unique opportunity has arisen for an Alarm Optimisation Technical Assistant to support the delivery of a major rationalisation and optimisation programme across all Sewage Pumping Stations (SPS) and Sewage Treatment Works (STW). The role is being offered on a fixed‑term (initial 1-year SPS phase, followed by 1-year STW phase), with potential for extension based on project outcomes and future rationalisation needs.

About this role:

The role will support the delivery of the Alarm Rationalisation Project across all SPS and STW. It focuses on reviewing, reprioritising, labelling, and optimising configured alarms in the SCADA system in line with the Alarm Philosophy and EEMUA standards. The Technical Assistant will play a key role in data analysis, documentation, reporting, and engagement with operational teams to ensure alarm handling is simplified, consistent, and effective.

What you’ll be doing:

• Data & Technical Support – Extract, review, and validate alarm configuration data using SCADA, Asset Data Portal, and other systems.
• Assist with the application of Alarm Prioritisation, Labelling, and Optimisation processes.
• Document configuration changes and ensure alignment with technical and operational standards.
• Reporting & Analysis – Use tools such as Power BI, Datamart, and Strumap to support performance tracking and reporting.
• Produce clear, accurate reports on alarm distribution, nuisance alarms, and action rates.
• Identify anomalies and elevate technical issues to the OT Technician or Alarm Optimisation Manager.
• Stakeholder Support – Provide administrative and technical support during workshops, site reviews, and training sessions.
• Liaise with Waste Area and Treatment/Pump Managers to gather site‑specific information.
• Maintain clear communication with Control Room and field operations staff regarding rationalisation progress.
• Project Delivery – Support the delivery of rationalisation milestones across SPS and STW sites.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, databases, and audit trails.
• Contribute to lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives.

What we are looking for:

• HNC/HND or equivalent experience in a relevant technical discipline (e.g., Engineering, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Information Systems).
• Strong analytical and data management skills.
• Experience working with SCADA systems or similar industrial control systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and data visualisation tools.
• Excellent attention to detail and documentation accuracy.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.

£31,000 – £35,000 a year

Benefits

We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success, so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long‑term career with us. We’re one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits including:

• Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
• A discretionary bonus
• Competitive contributory pension
• Share‑save scheme
• Various health benefits
• Wellbeing support programmes
• A range of group discounts
• Cycle to work scheme
• Financial support services
• And plenty more!

Join a forward‑thinking team driving operational excellence and innovation in wastewater management. Apply today to support the Alarm Rationalisation Project and make a measurable impact on performance, reliability, and environmental outcomes. Closing date: 29th December 2025

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.