Operational Technology Apprentice

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 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. Once qualified, you’ll join a 24/7 standby rota because your role is vital.

We are very proud of our apprentices here at Anglian Water. Over 87% of our apprentices are still working here at Anglian after 10 years. Check out our career site to hear more about opportunities and hear from our current apprentices Operational Apprenticeships - Anglian Water Careers.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.