Process Safety Specialist

South West Water

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose

South West Water keeps the South West flowing with safe, reliable drinking water and wastewater services across some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.

We’re proud to be part of Pennon Group, a leader in the UK water sector, working towards a greener future. Our goals? As well as lowering our carbon footprint, we’re working with partners to plant 300,000 trees, restore peatlands and supporting farmers and landowners to improve water quality and wildlife.

Whether you’re starting out or seeking a new challenge, our scale and ambition create opportunities for you to shape your own career.

Ready to make a splash? Join our team today.

Process Safety Specialist

Location: Exeter HQ | Hybrid / Field-based

Salary: £45,000-£50,000

We’re looking for a proactive and experienced Process Safety Specialist to support our operational technology teams. This is a key role where you’ll provide expert advice, drive compliance, and help embed a strong, risk-focused safety culture across the business.

The role

As a Process Safety Specialist, you’ll work closely with field and operational teams to ensure safe, compliant, and effective ways of working. You’ll influence behaviours, support decision-making, and play a hands-on role in improving safety performance.

Key responsibilities

Provide expert guidance on process safety and H&S legislation (DSEAR, CDM, Electrical, Machinery)
Support teams with risk assessments, safe systems of work, and HAZID/HAZOP studies
Coach and influence teams to build positive, proactive safety behaviours
Lead and support incident investigations, identifying root causes and driving improvements
Deliver and embed the HomeSafe culture across operational teams
Carry out audits and assurance activities to maintain high standards
Contribute to ISO 45001 aligned safety management systems
Support wellbeing and occupational health initiatives

About you

Experience as a Process Safety Specialist or similar role
Strong knowledge of UK Health & Safety & process safety legislation
Confident influencing and coaching teams at all levels
Experience in operational or field-based environments
Practical, solutions-focused approach

Why join us?

Make a tangible impact in a critical infrastructure environment
Be part of a business committed to safety and continuous improvement
Help shape a culture where everyone goes HomeSafe

What you’ll get

Join us and help deliver a reliable, high-quality service for our customers across the South West.

We believe in rewarding our people for their hard work and dedication. As our Process Safety Specialist, you'll enjoy:

Competitive Salary – Based on experience and skills
Annual Bonus Scheme – Recognising company performance
Pension Scheme – Helping you plan for your future
Flexible Working Options – We value work-life balance and offer flexible hours and hybrid working where possible
Healthcare Benefits – Access to employee assistance programs
Employee Discounts – On various products and services
Annual Leave – Take time to recharge with our holiday entitlement

Closing Date: 5th July 2026

We may close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

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.