Metering Construction Unit Operative

Powered by Water, Driven by Purpose
At Bristol Water, we’ve been serving generations of families since 1846. Ensuring people in our communities have access to healthy water is paramount, which is why we work around the clock testing our water hundreds of times a day.
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.
Role Purpose
The Metering Construction Unit Operative plays a key role in the delivery of metering and network activities across the Bristol Water region. The postholder supports the installation of water meters, stop taps, lead replacement programmes, private-side leak repairs, and associated excavation and reinstatement activities. The role contributes to the delivery of a high-quality customer experience while ensuring compliance with health, safety, environmental and operational standards.
Key Accountabilities
Operational Delivery
Assist with metering excavation works and installation activities.
Support the excavation and location of water supplies.
Assist with stop tap installations, meter installations and associated pipework activities.
Carry out backfilling and reinstatement works to required specifications and standards.
Support lead replacement and private-side leak repair programmes.
Assist with emergency response activities, including the deployment of drinking water supplies during major incidents.
Customer Service
Work alongside the Lead Operative at customer properties, ensuring a professional and positive customer experience.
Represent company values and maintain high standards of customer care and communication.
Ensure work is completed with minimal disruption to customers and communities.
Health, Safety and Compliance
Follow all company procedures, work instructions and Health & Safety policies.
Ensure the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
Promote safe working practices and report hazards or unsafe conditions.
Assist in ensuring all works are completed defect-free and to specification.
Asset and Vehicle Management
Maintain company vehicles, trailers, plant and equipment in a safe and serviceable condition.
Identify and report defective equipment to management.
Ensure vehicle stock levels are maintained to support operational requirements.
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
Full UK Driving Licence with Category B+E entitlement.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Strong commitment to health and safety.
Good teamwork and communication skills.
Flexible approach to working hours, including occasional out-of-hours and weekend working.
Desirable Requirements
Experience within construction, utilities, civil engineering or water industry operations.
GCSE Maths and English (Grade C/4 or above) or equivalent.
EUSR Water Hygiene certification.
Street Works (NRSWA) Units 1-9.
Cat & Genny qualification.
Category C1 (7.5 tonne) driving licence.
Experience in:
Water utility excavation, backfill and reinstatement.
Stop tap installation.
Lead replacement programmes.
New water services.
Mains repairs.
Key Competencies
Customer Focus
Health & Safety Awareness
Teamwork and Collaboration
Accountability
Quality of Work
Adaptability and Flexibility
Problem Solving
Attention to Detail
Reliability and Dependability
Reward Package
Salary up to £37,000 per annum
Up to 5% annual bonus
23 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Company pension scheme
Flexible benefits and employee discounts
Supportive and inclusive working environment
Career development opportunities as part of the Pennon Group.
Closing Date: 29th 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.

- Division
- Bristol Water
- Department
- Operations and Field Work
- Locations
- Bristol
- Yearly salary
- £37,000
- Employment type
- Full-time
About Bristol Water
Bristol Water has been proudly providing an essential public water service to the communities within and surrounding the city of Bristol since 1846.
We supply water to 500,000 homes and businesses across Bristol City, North Somerset and areas of Bath, North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire. That's about 1.2m people who have access to our water every day!