Virtual Inspector

Role overview

Southern Water is hiring a Virtual Inspector for its Sussex operations. This is a permanent full-time position based on a 38-hour week, working Monday to Friday, with a salary of up to £31,000 depending on experience.

In this role, you’ll use video, imagery and AI-enabled tools to assess customer-reported issues, identify the likely cause, and decide the most appropriate next step so that problems can be resolved quickly and effectively. The position suits someone with strong knowledge of the water industry and supply networks, ideally gained through a customer-facing background.

What the role involves

You will act as part of a virtual triage function, handling customer calls and applying your technical understanding to assess network-related issues. You’ll need to bring a practical, service-oriented mindset and be comfortable working in a fast-moving environment where accuracy and clear judgement matter.

The role also involves coordinating third-party contractors for repairs and using contact centre systems to log cases and raise work orders. Previous experience in a Network Service Inspector position would be especially valuable, although the organisation will also support development with further training.

Why join Southern Water

Southern Water is investing heavily in the future of Britain’s water sector, with £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30 aimed at improving resilience, sustainability and service quality. This is a chance to join during a period of major transformation and contribute to meaningful change.

You’ll work with an experienced leadership team in an environment where senior professionals can help shape strategic decisions, influence long-term direction and create lasting value.

Inclusion and application approach

Southern Water encourages applicants from all backgrounds and believes different perspectives help drive innovation. If you feel you can add value to the team, you are encouraged to apply even if you do not meet every requirement listed.

If this opportunity is not the right fit but you would like to be considered for future roles, you may register your interest through the company’s general talent contact process.

Diversity commitment

The organisation welcomes candidates of all identities and experiences and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable adjustments can be requested during recruitment if needed.

Additional information

As part of Southern Water’s security and compliance process, successful candidates must provide proof of identity, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, a criminal record check (DBS), and verification of employment and/or education history covering the previous three years.

Employment is conditional on completing all pre-employment checks successfully, including security vetting. If the required standards are not met or vetting is unsuccessful, the offer may be withdrawn. Some roles may also require a higher level of vetting and additional supporting documents.

Key details

Closing date: 26 June 2026

Location: Sussex, United Kingdom

Contract type: Permanent

Hours: 38 per week, Monday to Friday

Salary: Up to £31,000 depending on experience