Why work in water
Scotland takes pride in its world-class, publicly owned water and waste services.
Worth £3.7 billion to the economy and supporting nearly 17,000 jobs – from Stranraer to Shetland, the sector is essential for Scotland’s public health, environment and economic prosperity.
Together, the organisations operating in Scotland’s water sector design, build and maintain the infrastructure that helps our nation thrive.
What’s in it for you?
- Impactful work – You contribute directly to public health and environmental sustainability.
- Diverse opportunities – From engineering and science to policymaking and community outreach, there’s a niche for everyone.
- Ever-evolving challenges – Water management involves innovation, from climate change to technology advancements.
- Job security – Essential services mean demand is always high, making water one of the most stable sectors.
- Community connection – Your efforts support local communities, making them safer and more sustainable.
- Exciting times - your chance to work on inspiring engineering projects which will stand the test of time.
Did you know that our sector?
SERVES
more than 2.5 million households and 150,000 businesses.
HELPS
approximately 5.4 million people across Scotland access clean water.
PROTECTS
more than 31,000 km of rivers and around 2,000 lochs.
TREATS
around 1.3 billion litres of wastewater daily.
PRESERVES
more than 1,000 designated nature conservation sites across Scotland.
INVESTS
more than £1billion each year into the nation’s water and waste infrastructure.