Mark

Mark's STORY

Catchment Officer, South West Water

Catchment Officer
South West Water

Mark worked at the Royal Mail for 18 years before deciding he wanted a career change. Find out why he chose the water industry and why his role at South West Water is important.

What do you do and where do you do it?

I am a Catchment Operator for Networks at South West Water and a member of the OST (Operations Safety Team). My role is to reactively resolve a problem with the Network or to identify the area of concern/issue and collect information for further work to proceed related to the skill set required.

Why is your role important?

It’s important to preserve and maintain sanitary conditions for the benefit of public health, property and the environment. An issue with the Network can have a direct affect on people’s private and working life. A Network issue for example can include: flooding /blockages and asset damage on the highway (section 81, manhole covers), businesses may need to temporarily close which could lead to a loss of earnings. On a larger scale there is an environmental obligation to protect fisheries and public bathing waters.

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The water industries offer a range of training opportunities to develop the skills needed to work in such a diverse field.

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Which parts of the job do you enjoy most?

Investigating and solving problems gives me a great sense of satisfaction and the fact that no two days are ever the same. I like being outdoors so working in the field really suits me. Contact with customers and meeting people from all walks of life as well as other colleges within the industry.

What path did you use to get to the position you hold today?

I started on a 15 month temporary contract before being taken on permanently. A permanent position allowed me to participate in the progression scheme and I am currently on Level 3 of 5. I also have a Level 2 in Sewage Maintenance awarded by CABWI (awarding body for the water utilities industry).

What attracted you to join the energy and utilities sector?

I was looking for a career change that provided new challenges. The water industries offer a range of training opportunities to develop the skills needed to work in such a diverse field.