Closing Date
01/09/2025
Job Title: Machine Learning & Simulation Modelling Specialist
Location: Falmer, Brighton
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Circa £65,000 per annum depending on skills and experience
Team: Operational Planning & Improvement (Wastewater)
Reporting to: Technical Improvement Manager
Join Us to Shape the Future of Predictive Wastewater Intelligence
Are you passionate about using AI and machine learning to solve real-world environmental and operational challenges? Do you want to work on projects that directly reduce pollution, predict failures, and improve the performance of wastewater systems?
Southern Water is seeking a Machine Learning & Simulation Modelling Specialist to join our Operational Planning & Improvement (OP&I) team. In this high-impact role, you’ll develop predictive models, digital twins, and simulation tools to help forecast asset failures, optimise treatment processes, and drive smarter, data-led decision-making.
Working closely with engineers, ICA specialists, planners, and our central data team, you’ll help transform sparse and real-time data into actionable insight that supports field operations and enhances regulatory compliance.
What You’ll Be Doing
Build and deploy
machine learning models to forecast pollution events and asset failures. Develop and apply
digital twins and simulation models to evaluate optimisation strategies. Design data pipelines and integrate datasets from
SCADA, telemetry, sensor networks, and operational systems. Convert model outputs into practical dashboards, alerts, and planning tools for engineers and field teams. Work cross-functionally to embed AI models into daily workflows and planning decisions. Use low-data ML techniques to extract insight from poorly instrumented or sparse datasets. Contribute to major improvement initiatives targeting compliance, resilience, and performance. Champion innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing across OP&I and beyond.
What We’re Looking For
Skills & Competencies
Practical experience applying
machine learning and simulation modelling in an operational or industrial setting. Skilled communicator with the ability to explain complex technical ideas clearly to non-technical audiences. Highly collaborative and comfortable working across teams (engineering, ICA, digital, data). Confident in
Python, SQL, and ML frameworks like
scikit-learn, TensorFlow, or PyTorch. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in agile, fast-paced environments. Able to manage
time-series data and deliver scalable, robust ML models.
What You’ll Need
Essential Knowledge & Qualifications
Proven experience developing ML models for
predictive maintenance, anomaly detection, or operational optimisation. Hands-on experience with
digital twins or simulation modelling tools. Background in
SCADA, telemetry, or sensor-based data processing. Degree (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field such as
Data Science, Engineering, Environmental Modelling. Familiarity with
cloud-based platforms like Azure, AWS, or GCP. Awareness of
environmental regulations, permit compliance, and ethical AI principles.
Desirable
Experience working in the
wastewater or utilities sector. Knowledge of modelling tools like
SIMBA or BioWin. Understanding of
data ethics, model transparency, and responsible AI use.
Why Join Southern Water?
Be part of a growing team at the heart of our
digital transformation journey. Work on meaningful projects that protect the environment and improve service delivery. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to innovation in utility operations. Enjoy flexible working, training and development support, and opportunities for career growth.
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