Water Network Operative

This Intermediate water network operative apprenticeship standard will provide you with a level 2, qualification. This apprenticeship standard was approved on the 17/06/2020 and typically takes 18 months to complete. However, it is important to note that the duration of the apprenticeship standard stated does not include the End-Point Assessment period.

Water network operatives typically work in one of the two major water industries: Clean water and Wastewater. Occasionally some multi-utility workers work across both sectors, but this is rare. This apprenticeship will provide the core training to work as a water network operative, and then will allow specialising in either of the two industries depending on your employer. Employers can include utility owners, operators or contractors, all ranging in size from small to large.

The primary aim of this role is to construct, maintain and repair the correct infrastructure to water networks, providing a reliable supply and service to domestic, commercial and industrial users. The infrastructure is different in each industry. Clean water infrastructure includes mains pipes, water supply pipes, stop taps, fire hydrants and sluice valves. Wastewater infrastructure includes sewers and drains, chambers, interceptors, flow control devices and storage tanks. It is your responsibility to ensure that work on this infrastructure on-site is safe; this may mean stopping and managing traffic and completing site excavations.

You will develop teamwork and collaboration skills during the apprenticeship as water network operatives regularly interact with managers, network technicians, delivery drivers, engineers and administration staff.

• Mains layer
• Repair and maintenance operative
• Service layer
• Utility operative
• Water operative.

Visit the water network operative apprenticeship standard, on the Institute for Apprenticeships site, to find further information on skills and knowledge learnt, assessment methods and more.