March 2010
The Energy and Utilities Sector
Energy & Utility Skills is the Sector Skills Council for the gas, power, waste
management and water industries
Contents
UK, England and English Regions
1. The Energy & Utility Sector
2. Power
3. Gas
4. Waste Management
5. Water
1. The Energy & Utility Sector
1.1 Sector information – a brief description of what the sector covers at UK level
The energy and utility sector covers the following broad industries of the UK economy:
• Power
Including the generation, transmission, regional distribution and metering aspects
of the industry
• Gas
Including the distribution of gas through the mains and the fitting/maintenance of
gas equipment within the customers’ property
• Waste Management
Including the collection, transport, treatment and final management of waste and
recyclables
• Water
Including the supply of clean water to customers and the collection and treatment
of waste water
The number of people employed across the sector and in each industry is shown in the table
below:
UK
England
Power
87,000
62,500
Gas (Transmission & Distribution)
18,500
15,000
Gas (Utilisation)
123,700
105,800
Waste Management
141,000
110,000
Water
166,500
139,500
Total
536,200
432,800
Source: Energy & Utility Skills’ Labour Market Investigations of Electricity (2004), Water (2004) and Waste
Management (2006), Annual Business Inquiry (2007), Corgi Register (2006).
NOTE: The totals of some rows and columns may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
Examples of occupations at each level which are relevant to the energy and utility sector are:
1. Managers and Senior Officials – e.g. production managers, functional managers,
etc. These provide strategic direction and co-ordination to the business and/or are
responsible for operate of specific functions. Significant knowledge and experience is
needed.
1
2. Professionals – e.g. chemists, biochemists, physicists, civil engineers, mechanical
engineers, electrical engineers, chemical engineers, design engineers, Waste
Managers etc. These employees are highly skilled (degree or equivalent) in a
particular field of expertise and often apply extensive theoretical knowledge.
3. Associate Professionals and Technical – e.g. electrical technicians, engineering
technicians, building and civil engineering technicians, draughtspersons, etc. These
roles require experience and knowledge of principles and practices necessary to
assume operational responsibility and to give technical support to Professionals and
Managers and Senior Officials.
4. Administrative and Secretarial – e.g. secretaries, receptionists, credit controllers,
book-keepers, stock control clerks, telephonists, etc. A good standard of general
education is required, while certain occupations require further additional vocational
training or professional occupations to a well-defined standard.
5. Skilled Trades – e.g. welders, pipe fitters, tool makers, production and maintenance
fitters, electrical fitters, telecomms engineers, lines repairers and cable jointers,
plumbers, vehicle technicians etc. These roles involve performing complex physical
duties that normally require a degree of initiative, manual dexterity and other practical
skills. The main tasks of these occupations require experience with, and
understanding of, the work situation, the materials worked with and the requirements
of the structures, machinery and other items produced. Most occupations in this
major group have a level of skill commensurate with a substantial period of training,
often provided by means of work-based training programme.
6. Personal Service – involves the provision of a service to customers, whether in a
public protective or personal care capacity. There are no occupations in this group
which are relevant to the energy and utility sector.
7. Sales and Customer Service – e.g. telephone salespersons, call centre operators,
customer care occupations, etc. These occupations require the knowledge and
experience necessary to sell goods and services, accept payment in respect of sales,
and provide information to potential clients and additional services to customers after
the point of sale.
8. Process, Plant and Machine Operatives – e.g. energy plant operatives, substation
attendant, water and sewage plant operatives, sewerman, turncock, riggers, HGV/
lorry/ tanker drivers, mobile machine drivers, refuse collection vehicle drivers, mobile
plant operators etc. These roles require the knowledge and experience necessary to
operate and monitor industrial plant and equipment and to drive and assist in the
operation of various transport vehicles and other mobile machinery. Most occupations
in this group do not specify that a particular standard of education should have been
achieved but will usually have an associated period of formal experience related
training. Some occupations require licences issued by statutory or professional
bodies.
9. Elementary – e.g. labourers, recycling operative, refuse collector, etc. These
occupations require the knowledge and experience necessary to perform mostly
routine tasks, often involving the use of simple hand-held tools and, in some cases,
requiring a degree of physical effort. Most do not require formal educational
qualifications but will usually have an associated short period of formal experiencerelated training.
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2. Power (industry formerly referred to as Electricity)
2.1 A brief description of what the sub-sector covers at UK level
The power industry covers the activities associated with the production, transmission and
distribution of electricity. Essentially, the industry starts at the point of production and ends at
(and including) the meter on the customers’ property. The means of production and the fuel
used to generate electricity can vary – whether generated by conventional methods (e.g. gasfired power stations) or by renewable resources (e.g. wind or wave power).
Activities which are undertaken prior to production (e.g. raw materials extraction, manufacture
of plant and equipment, etc.) or take place past the meter (i.e. inside of the customers’
property) lie outside of the industry’s remit.
•
Production of electricity (SIC2003 40.11; SIC2007 35.11)
Operation of generation facilities that produce electricity from gas, coal-fired and
hydroelectric power stations and various renewable sources.
The operation of nuclear power stations is outside of our remit and is the
responsibility of Cogent SSC. However, there will be some overlap between the
occupations employed in nuclear power stations and those employed in other
areas of electricity generation, particularly in terms of connecting to the national
grid.
•
Transmission of electricity (SIC2003 40.12; SIC2007 35.12)
The operation of high voltage transmission networks that convey electricity from
the generation facility to the distribution networks. This is primarily the operation
and maintenance of the national grid network.
•
Distribution and trade of electricity (SIC2003 40.13; SIC2007 35.13 and 35.14)
The operation of regional distribution networks that convey electricity from the
high voltage transmission network to the consumer. Also included is the retail
sale of electricity to the customer, otherwise known as “supply”.
The number of people employed in the industry is shown in the table below:
Power
Generation
Distribution and Transmission
Supply
Corporate Functions
Estimated Additional Self-Employed
UK
87,000
18,000
38,000
21,500
6,500
3,000
England
62,500
13,500
27,000
15,500
4,500
2,000
Source: Energy & Utility Skills Labour Market Investigation of the UK Electricity Industry, 2004
NOTE: The totals of some rows and columns may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
2.2 Information on careers available and new emerging jobs, transferability of skills
career paths and opportunities for progression
There are careers in two specific areas of electricity:
• Generation – the operation and maintenance of power station apparatus
• Distribution & Transmission – the installation and maintenance of the network that
supplies electricity from power stations to homes, industry and businesses.
Jobs available in the Generation industry include:
• Control and Instrumentation Engineer
• Operations Technician
• Maintenance Technician
• Electrical Engineer
• Supervisor
3
Jobs in the Transmission and Distribution industry include:
• Overhead Line Worker
• Cable Jointer
• Electrical Fitter
• Electrical Engineer
• Supervisor
Jobs in the Supply industry include:
• Meter Operative
• Meter Technician
• Supervisor
Many of the jobs in the power industry are highly skilled and in demand in a wide range of
engineering, science and technology based industries. There is an increasing need for skilled
people to work in UK engineering and technology businesses, so that the UK can compete
successfully in the world economy.
A handout is available outlining pathways, progression etc and can be found by following the
link: http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=498
2.3 Information on pay scales in the sector
Starting salaries for young people and graduates entering the power industry range from
£11,000 to £25,000. Upon completion of training these salaries can increase to between
£26,000 and £45,000, depending upon the occupation.
Average basic salaries (excluding overtime and bonuses) for a selection of occupations found
in the electricity industry include:
Electrical Engineer
£42,000
Civil Engineer
£38,000
Design Engineer
£37,000
Mechanical Engineer
£35,000
Overhead Linesworker
£33,000
Electrical/Engineering Technician
£30,000
Cable Jointer
£24,000
Meter Fixer
£21,000
Salaries can vary between employers and locations within the UK.
2.4 Information on entry requirements, application processes (e.g. Apprenticeships)
The best way to start a career is to apply directly to an employer and secure employment or
work experience with them. This can be supplemented with training such as an S/NVQ or
college based qualifications that could lead to a nationally recognised qualification.
An apprenticeship in the industry is a great opportunity to achieve a recognised qualification,
gain experience and develop transferable skills. There is currently one Apprenticeship
available in the Power Industry with 4 Pathways (Generation, Transmission, Distribution and
Renewables. (Renewables pathway Wind turbine Servicing – launching September 2010)
Details of Apprenticeships (in the Power Sector) can be found at the following link:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=204
It is worth noting that National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) will not be required as part of
Apprenticeships from August 2010. For additional information on Apprenticeships please
contact Helen White, Apprenticeship Manager on 0845 0777034 or
helen.white@euskills.co.uk
Additional information may be found at the following link:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=211
4
2.5 Qualifications
Summary of Electricity Qualifications available
Qualificatio
n
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering NVQ Lead
Overhead
Lines Person
(QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 2
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Overhead
Lines (QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Overhead
Lines (QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 2
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Substation
Plant (QCF)
Summary
Link to information
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power
transmission sector and is designed for lead persons
working on overhead lines in a transmission context.
There are three mandatory units that assess the
candidates working safely, protecting the environment
during transmission maintenance activities as well as
maintaining safety from the electrical system. The
candidates then undertake a number of optional skill
units. The units range from inspection and
maintenance activities on overhead line transmission
towers and conductors through to earthing, switching
and emergency response then, candidates are free to
choose one of five non-technical skill-based units
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. Four
mandatory units assess the candidates working in a
safety context, communicating technical information
and dealing with customers. The candidates then
undertake a mandatory skill unit where they are
assessed moving overhead line plant and apparatus.
Following this there are a number of optional skill units
in two separate optional groups, of which candidates
need to select a minimum of one from one group and
five from another. The units cover the range of
installation, maintenance and dismantling of overhead
line plant and apparatus, along with testing, inspecting
and fault repair.
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. There are
three mandatory units that assess the candidates
organising resources, controlling working parties and
dealing with technical information. Following this there
are a number of optional skill units, of which
candidates need to select a minimum of two. The units
cover the range of switching operations, live line work,
hotstick and hotglove operations, installation and fault
repair, as well as earthing and erection of steel tower
structures.
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. There are
four mandatory units that assess the candidates
working in a safety context, communicating technical
information and dealing with customers. The
candidates then undertake mandatory skill units where
they are assessed moving plant and apparatus and
also entering, exiting and movement in a general
around the substation. There are then a number of
optional skill units, of which candidates need to select
a minimum of five. The units cover the range of
installation, maintenance and dismantling of plant and
apparatus, along with testing and fault repair.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50080076.seo.aspx
5
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073254.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073187.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073229.seo.aspx
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Substation
Plant (QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 2
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Single and
Three Phase
Metering
(Whole
Current) (QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Current
Transformer /
Voltage
Transformer
Metering
(QCF)
City & Guilds
Level 2
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Underground
Cables (QCF)
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for supervisor operatives
working in substation plants as either fitters or the like.
There are three mandatory units that assess
candidates organising resources, controlling working
parties and producing, communicating and recording
technical information. The candidates then undertake
a number of optional skill units, of which candidates
need to select a minimum of two. The units cover the
range of switching operations, diagnostic and pressure
testing as well as installation of various plant and
apparatus.
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. There are
four mandatory units that assess the candidates
working in a safety context, communicating technical
information and dealing with customers. Candidates
must then complete two mandatory skill units covering
the installation and changing of single phase meters
and associated equipment. Following this there are a
number of optional skill units, of which candidates
need to select a minimum of two. The units cover the
range of installation and changing of multi-phase
meters.
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. There are
four mandatory units that assess the candidates
organising resources, controlling working parties and
dealing with technical information, as well as
customers. Following this there are a number of
optional skill units, of which candidates need to select
a minimum of two. The units cover the range of
installation and changing of high voltage and current
transformer meters.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073230.seo.aspx
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for operatives working in
substation plants as either fitters or the like. There are
four mandatory units that assess the candidates
working in a safety context, communicating technical
information and dealing with customers. The
candidates then undertake two mandatory skill units
where they are assessed locating and identifying
underground utility services and accessing and
movement within the working area. Following this
there are two optional skill groups, the first of which
requires the candidate to choose a minimum of one
unit from a range of six jointing units. The second
requires the candidate to select a minimum of two
units from a range including electrical testing,
excavation activities, installation of underground
cables and various jointing units.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073205.seo.aspx
6
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073618.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50072109.seo.aspx
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Underground
Cables (QCF)
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for supervisor operatives
working in substation plants as either fitters or the like.
There are three mandatory units that assess the
candidates organising resources, controlling working
parties and dealing with technical information. The
candidates then undertake a minimum of two optional
skill units covering a range of switching operations,
fault location and diagnosis, fibre optic fusion splicing,
phasing out cables and inspecting oil and gas filled
cable systems.
City & Guilds
Level 2
Certificate in
Electrical
Power
Engineering Single Phase
Metering
(Whole
Current) (QCF)
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power distribution
sector and is designed for meter operatives working in
the power sector. There are four mandatory units that
assess the candidates working in a safety context,
communicating technical information and dealing with
customers. Candidates must then complete two
mandatory skill units covering the installation and
changing of single phase meters and associated
equipment.
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering NVQ Lead
Substation
Crafts Person
(QCF)
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power
transmission sector and is designed for lead crafts
persons working in substation plants in a transmission
context. There are three mandatory units that assess
the candidates working safely, protecting the
environment during transmission maintenance
activities as well as maintaining safety from the
electrical system. The candidates then undertake a
number of optional skill units, some in a coordinating
context. The units range from maintenance activities
on a number of transmission plant and apparatus
through to testing, switching and emergency
response. Following this, candidates are free to
choose one of five non-technical skill-based unit.
This work-based qualification has been developed in
conjunction with employers from the Power
transmission sector and is designed for lead persons
working on overhead lines in a transmission context.
There are three mandatory units that assess the
candidates working safely, protecting the environment
during transmission maintenance activities as well as
maintaining safety from the electrical system. The
candidates then undertake a number of optional skill
units, some in a coordinating context. The units range
from inspection and maintenance activities on
overhead line transmission towers and conductors
through to earthing, switching and emergency
response.
Following this, candidates are free to choose one of
five non-technical skill-based units.
City & Guilds
Level 3
Diploma in
Electrical
Power
Engineering NVQ Lead
Overhead
Lines Person
(QCF)
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50073242.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50080064.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50079712.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50080076.seo.aspx
A number of existing qualifications are being phased out and from August 2010 will no longer
be available due to the transition to the new Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF)
7
Over the past 3 years Energy and Utility Skills have been involved in the development in 4 of the
17 new Diplomas, academic learning applied in real industry contexts.
Three of these diplomas, Engineering – Construction and the Built Environment – Environmental
and Land Based Studies, are currently being delivered in schools and colleges across England
with many power and utility companies working with teachers to deliver the qualification. Science is
due to be offered from 2011. Currently, Local Authorities have been able to ‘opt in’ to offer the
diplomas with national entitlement coming in 2013.
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=205
2.6 Data on employment and labour market trends and forecasts
Gender
The figure below shows the proportion of employees who are female within each occupational
group in the electricity industry and compares them to the England average.
Proportion of female employees in the power industry by occupation (England)
90
80
Percentage of Workforce
70
60
50
England
EU Skills
40
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
Waste Management
30
Water
20
10
0
Managers &
Senior Officials
Professionals
Associate
Professional &
Technical
Admin &
Secretarial
Skilled Trades
Sales &
Customer
Service
Process, Plant &
Machine
Operatives
Elementary
Occupational Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001.
In general terms, there is a strong gender bias within the power industry, with high
concentrations of male workers across all of the managerial, engineering and technical
occupations.
Female workers are concentrated in administrative and secretarial and sales and customer
service roles. Only around 20% of managerial employees are female, compared to around
34% across the UK economy. Females make up 67% of the workforce within the
administrative and secretarial occupations but only 12% of professionals and 27% of
associate professionals.
Within power generation companies, it is estimated that just 10% of the total workforce are
female.
8
Age
The figure below shows the age profile of the workforce currently employed in the power
industry in England.
Age profile of the workforce in the power industry (England)
35
30
Percentage of Workforce
25
England
20
EU Skills
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
15
Gas (Downstream)
Waste Management
Water
10
5
0
16-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
64+
Age Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001 and CORGI Register.
These data (the yellow column) suggest that, in general terms, the age profile in the power
industry is similar to that of the whole UK workforce, although it does employ slightly fewer
16-24 year-olds and more 35-54 year-olds. This is likely to be a reflection of the industry’s
restriction in terms of under 18 year-olds working on generation, transmission and distribution
systems and its desire to recruit a more experienced and mature individual into, what can be,
dangerous roles and situations.
However, our research shows that there is evidence that in some of the higher-level technical
and engineering occupations there is an issue related to the high number of workers who are
due to retire within the next 15 years, and for whom replacements may be difficult to find in
sufficient numbers.
The future
Over the next decade the total number of people employed in the power industry is forecast to
remain fairly stable. With a number of power stations (fuelled by gas, coal and nuclear)
coming towards the end of their operational lives, new facilitates will be built to replace them.
Add to this the need to increase the amount of power generated to need the future demands
of the UK as a whole, and the employment prospects within the power industry are bright.
As well as extensive investment in power stations, new workers will need to the recruited to
replace and upgrade the overhead lines transmission and distribution networks. This is a key
element of the future success of the power industry, especially as a growing number of
renewable energy plants need to be connected to these networks – many of them in remote
locations or off-shore.
9
Forecasts made by Oxford Economics suggest that around 2,000 new workers per year will
be required by the power industry between 2008 and 2017 and that 34% of these will need to
be graduates.
The occupations where demand for new recruits will be largest include:
• Unit Operator/Controller
(Level 3)
(Generation)
Responsibility for the operation of plant, equipment at ‘unit level’. Controls and directs
resources to configure and operate plant processes, equipment and instrumentation
to sustain and maintain commercial supply.
•
Cable Jointers
(Level 3)
(Distribution)
Undertake routine cable jointing activities such as repair, replacement and
termination.
•
Electrical Fitters
(Level 3)
(Distribution)
Carries out activities such as fault investigation, whilst also controlling and directing
resources.
•
Overhead Linesperson
(Level 3)
(Transmission and Distribution)
Conducts routine overhead line activities such as condition assessment, fault repair,
maintenance, quality assurance, refurbishment and dismantlement.
•
Resource Team Leaders
(Level 3)
(Distribution)
Management of day-to-day resources within the infrastructure to enable works to
continue in an effective and efficient manner.
•
Project Manager/Engineer
(Levels 4&5)
(Distribution)
Delivers complex very high value network/infrastructure projects incorporating the
responsibility for internal resource, quality assurance and a variety of external factors
relating to resource, finance, 3rd parties, regulatory and/or other considerations.
•
1
(Level 3)
(Metering)
Meter Fixers
Install and change whole current single phase and 3 phase meters.
2.7 Skill shortages
The main skill shortages that exist in the power industry at the moment are:
• Project Manager
• Station Manager
• Shift/Group Leader
• Cable Jointers/ Overhead Linesperson
• Control and Instrumentation Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Plant Process Engineer
• Commissioning Engineer
Due to the lack of graduates and other suitably skilled people looking for employment
opportunities in the power industry and the significant capital investment programmes that are
currently underway and being planned, it is highly unlikely that these skills shortages will be
resolved any time soon.
The shortage of commissioning engineers, project managers, cable jointers and overhead
linespersons is particularly severe at the moment due to (i) the age profile of the existing
workforce means that many workers will retire over the next ten years and (ii) a major renewal
programme of the electricity transmission and distribution network is underway and will last
for several years.
1
Install/ change whole current single phase and 3 phase meters.
10
2.8 Information on opportunities for adults changing career direction
GENERATION:
Generation of electricity refers to the operation and maintenance of power station apparatus.
Operators work in gas, oil or coal-fired, nuclear or hydro-electric power stations or wind
farms. They can work directly with the machinery or remotely from a control room. Their
duties include:
•
diagnosing faults and resolving them
•
maintaining safety procedures and environmental good practice
•
handling materials required for the generation system
•
carrying out routine testing
•
following contingency plans (e.g. isolating or shutting down a system)
Maintenance crews carry out repairs on mechanical, electrical or control and instrumentation
equipment. They may strip down or rebuild machinery (e.g. turbines, pumps or transformers)
or remove it to a workshop. At other times, they can install new equipment or replace faulty
wiring and components.
Skills and Interests
To become an electricity generation worker you should;
•
have a methodical approach to fault finding
•
be able to understand technical drawings and manuals
•
have a practical aptitude for mechanical processes
•
have a mature and responsible attitude
•
be able to work as part of a team and also act on your own initiative
•
have good communication skills
•
be safety conscious and environmentally aware
Training and Qualifications
You will be trained on the job with some formal instruction in a training centre. S/NVQs
that are available for this area of the industry are:
•
S/NVQ Engineering Technology Operations Level 1, 2 and 3
•
S/NVQ Engineering Technology Maintenance Level 2 and 3
TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION:
Power distribution workers install and maintain the network that supplies power from power
stations to homes, industry and businesses. There are three main occupational areas;
•
overhead lines and pylon work
•
underground cable work
•
substation work
Transmission and Distribution workers conduct repairs in high and low voltage environments.
Their duties include;
•
carrying out preventative maintenance and switching operations
•
installing and dismantling equipment (e.g. transmission cables)
•
assembling or removing components
•
adjusting and configuring electrical systems
•
inspecting, testing and diagnosing faults
Skills and Interests
To be a power transmission or distribution worker you should:
•
be able to apply yourself practically
•
be physically fit
•
be patient, mature and responsible
•
have a basic knowledge of physics and maths to understand the principles of
electricity transmission and distribution
•
have good communication skills
•
have the ability to solve problems
•
have the ability to work on your own without supervision
•
have knowledge of safety regulations
11
Training and Qualifications
You will be trained on the job with some formal instruction in a training centre. S/NVQs
available for this area of the industry are:
•
S/NVQ Electricity Systems Technology Engineering Level 2 and 3
•
S/NVQ Electricity Systems Technology Engineering Level 2 and 3
SUPPLY:
The power supply industry refers to the supply, installation, operation and maintenance of
electricity meters. Training is normally done “in house” with an electricity distribution
company.
What do I do next?
Please contact a customer service advisor at Energy & Utility Skills on 0845 077 9922 for
further careers guidance on the power industry or visit our website www.euskills.co.uk.
Further Steps:
Contact regional electricity companies or large electrical contractors in your area to secure a
work placement or employment.
Additional information is available on a handout which can be found at the following link:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=498
2.9 Information on points of entry or transfer into a sector from another area sector.
The best way to start a career is to apply directly to an employer and secure employment or
work experience with them. This can be supplemented with training such as an S/NVQ or
college based qualifications that could lead to a nationally recognised qualification.
An apprenticeship in the industry is a great opportunity to achieve a recognised qualification,
gain experience and develop transferable skills.
Additional information can be obtained from the handout which can be found at:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=501
2.10 Job profiles
Energy & Utility Skills hold details of various jobs in the industry including the following.
Position
Cable Jointer
Electrical Fitter
Overhead Lineworker
Electricity Generation Worker
Electrical Engineering Technician
Production Technician
Electrical Maintenance Technician
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=229
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=230
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=231
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/electricity-job-profiles/electricalgeneration-worker/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/electricity-job-profiles/electricalengineering-technician/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/electricity-job-profiles/productiontechnician/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/electricity-job-profiles/electricalmaintenance-technician/
Additional careers information can be found on the Energy & Utility Skills website by
visiting http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=212
12
2.11 Case studies
Person
Terry Cochrane
Apprentice
Electrical Fitter
Oliver Shakespere
Apprentice
Overhead
Lineworker
Employer
Scottish Power
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=
288
E.On
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=
293
Eamonn Maynes
Apprentice Cable
Jointer
Northern Ireland
Electricity
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=
295
Steve Kenzie,
Engineer
Scottish & Southern
Energy
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/a-day-in-the-lifeof/case-studies/steve-kenzie-engineer-scottishsouthern-energy/
13
2.12 FAQs
The majority of enquiries that come in to Energy & Utility Skills are processed by our Business
Support function. Each member of the team has a portfolio of information which contains
information designed to answer incoming enquiries. The information for the power industry
can only be reached via an internal link on our website therefore a hard copy of the details
have been included with the paper copy of this submission.
Q) What training is available in the electricity sector?
A) The following is a list of recognised trainers used in the sector
Morgan Est
• Telephone: 07976181527
• Email: les.o'hara@morganest.com
• Regions: East Midlands
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Enterprise
• Telephone: 07887823129
• Email: martin.ohara@enterprise.plc.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, South East, South West, West Midlands
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
John C O'Brien Associates
• Telephone: 07985 493424
• Email: john@johnobrien8.wanadoo.co.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes:, Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity),
HSTC
•
•
•
•
Telephone: 01733564260/07563 731313
Email: mick.wright@ntlworld.com
Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Exova
•
•
•
•
Telephone: 07711208972
Email: steve.gordon@exova.com
Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
Schemes:, Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
A B Safetybiz
• Telephone: 07787290616
• Email: aidan.best@yahoo.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Utility & Construction Training Ltd
• Telephone: 0161 7764186
• Email: steve.sharp@uctraining.co.uk
• Regions: North West, North East, Yorkshire and The Humber, West Midlands
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
14
Independent
• Telephone: 07800613893
• Email: mark.kelly2@bbusl.com
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Safology Ltd
• Telephone: 07765 252249
• Email: simon@safology.com
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Long O'Donnell
• Telephone: 01606359200
• Email: robertsharpe@longodonnell.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Morrow Group
• Telephone: 07719732406
• Email: tommy.irwin@btinternet.com
• Regions: Northern Ireland
• Schemes:, Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
K M H Pipeline Services
• Telephone: 07854975717
• Email: mandyh02@hotmail.co.uk
• Regions: East of England, London
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity),
Risk Compliance
• Telephone: 07525 901698
• Email: Joe.murphy@riskcompliance.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity),
Dutton Contractors Ltd
• Telephone: 07790 932983
• Email: markridsdale@duttoncontractors.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Training With JWL
• Telephone: 07774 646279
• Email: john.larner@homecall.co.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity),
15
Powell Engineering UK Ltd
• Telephone: 01724712904
• Email: rob.johnson@poweng.net
• Regions: East Midlands, London, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Heddon Safety & Environmental Services Ltd
• Telephone: 01661853367
• Email: robin.wilkes@heddon.org.uk
• Regions: East of England, North East, North West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Yorkshire
and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Inexus Services Ltd
• Telephone: 07717 619662
• Email: ken.marsh@inexus-services.net
• Regions: Wales
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
AMEC
•
•
•
•
Telephone: 07801 925170
Email: ron.forder@amec.com
Regions: London, South East, South West, West Midlands
Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
E & P Construction Skills
• Telephone: 07971 614529
• Email: steve@epconstructionskills.co.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Scotland,
South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Utility & Construction Training-Electricity
• Telephone: 07717684310
• Email: ian.cleminson@uctraining.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Sterling Power Training
• Telephone: 01215854504
• Email: rob.waldron@sterling-power.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Scottish & Southern Energy
• Telephone: 01903 718653
• Email: bob.smith46@gmail.com
• Regions: South East, South West
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Kefax Ltd
• Telephone: 07517 427076
• Email: andrew.walters53@ntlworld.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
16
Laing O'Rourke
• Telephone: 07500785954
• Email: sjdunn@laingorourke.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Advance Safety Ltd
• Telephone: 01709 763430
• Email: tbrennan@advancesafety.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Construction Safety Training Services Ltd
• Telephone: 07500098725
• Email: larnerdean@aol.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Northern
Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The
Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
SPG Safety
• Telephone: 07515851211
• Email: spguzzie@ntlworld.com
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Independent
• Telephone: 07891825720
• Email: andyperchard@hotmail.co.uk
• Regions: South West
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Balfour Beatty Utility Solutions
• Telephone: 0870 600 5577
• Email: training@bbusl.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Scotland,
South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Basic Electrical Safety Competence, Utility Safety Health and Environmental
Awareness (Electricity)
Ron Forder
• Telephone: 07528175688
• Email: ron@ronforder.orangehome.co.uk
• Regions: London, South East, South West
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Brookson 5984D Ltd
• Telephone: 01792515414
• Email: lewisdasafety@yahoo.co.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, South West, Wales, West Midlands
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
17
Safety Advisory Services
• Telephone: 07903 199417
• Email: dave9rum@yahoo.co.uk
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Connolly Training Solutions
• Telephone: 07970 487217
• Email: info@connollytrainingsolutions.com
• Website: www.connollytrainingsolutions.com
• Regions: Channel Islands, East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North
West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Enterprise Managed Services
• Telephone: 07970121488
• Email: alan.gough@enterprise.plc.uk
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, South West, Wales, West Midlands,
Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Kefax Limited
• Telephone: 01623 422099
• Email: douglas.ogram@kefax.co.uk
• Regions: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, North West, North East, Yorkshire and The
Humber, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South West, South East,
London
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity), Basic
Electrical Safety Competence
Heddon Safety
• Telephone: 07875554979
• Email: telmc@tiscali.co.uk
• Regions: North East
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Bethell Construction Ltd
• Telephone: 07754209445
• Email: lee.onslow@bethell.co.uk
• Regions: North West, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes:, Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
PNCTraining
• Telephone: 07734 412793
• Email: pnctraining@hotmail.com
• Regions: East Midlands, East of England, London, North East, North West, Scotland,
South East, South West, Wales, West Midlands, Yorkshire and The Humber
• Schemes: Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Electricity)
Electrical Safety Training Ltd
• Telephone: 0114 2400399
• Email: electricalsafety@btconnect.com
• Regions: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, North West, North East, Yorkshire and The
Humber, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South West, South East,
London
• Schemes: Basic Electrical Safety Competence
18
Integral Training Services
• Telephone: 02380 665544
• Email: natasha.carlin@trant.co.uk
• Regions: South West, South East, London
• Schemes: Basic Electrical Safety Competence
Q)
Which areas of the power industry are Energy & Utility Skills
responsible for?
A)
Generation of electricity from coal, gas and an increasing range of renewable
energy sources; transmission onto the national grid, and distribution from the
transmission substation up to the meter and supply (metering) to the customer.
Q)
A)
What Training Schemes are available in the industry?
Energy & Utility Skills support many schemes in the power industry including:
•
Basic Electrical Safety Competence (BESC)
•
National Grid Electrical Contractor
•
Plant for Utilities Scheme
•
SF6 Gas Handling
•
Utility Excavations
•
Utility Network Construction Supervisor
•
SHEA (Electricity)
Full details of these courses can be found at http://www.eusr.co.uk/schemes
Q)
What is the National Skills Academy for Power?
A) The National Skills Academy for Power will be crucial to delivering the fast changing
training and development needs of the industry in the coming years. It is the result of
collaboration between Power Sector employers and Energy & Utility Skills – the Sector
Skills Council for gas, power, waste management and water. The aim of the Skills
Academy is to help tackle skills shortages in areas from electricity generation (including
renewables and fossil fuels) through to power transmission, distribution and metering.
More information can be found at http://www.nationalskillsacademy.co.uk/
2.13 Sources of additional information, web-links etc
To start a career in the industry it is recommended that you contact a local electricity
distribution company or a transmission company. Details of these companies can be found
on the following link: http://2010.energynetworks.org/energy-industry-careers-info/
Learn more about the power industry by viewing the following websites:
• The IET Power Academy is an Engineering Scholarship Fund for students that
would like to study Electrical Engineering at Cardiff, Imperial College London,
Strathclyde, Manchester, Southampton or Queens University Belfast.
• The Association of Electricity Producers (AEP) is the leading trade association
for the UK electricity market.
• Scenta is a portal for science, engineering and technology (SET) careers
information.
• RIG Energy are a specialist engineering recruitment agency
• Utility Job Search is a job site dedicated to the candidates in the UK utilities
industry
• Just Utilities is a job site advertising vacancies in the utility industry
Additional information on Apprenticeships can be obtained from
http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Be-An-Apprentice/Other-Questions.aspx
19
2.14 Power – Regional Information
2.14.1 Power– East Midlands
In total, some 3,500 people are employed within the power industry in the East Midlands
region in approximately 50 companies; which makes this region the second smallest in
England in terms of the number of people employed in the industry.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
3,500
50
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry’s workforce in the East Midlands are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East Midlands‘ power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.2 Power– East of England
In total, some 5,500 people are employed within the power industry in the East of
England region in approximately 80 companies; which makes this region the fourth
largest in England in terms of the number of people employed in the industry.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
5,500
80
Power
Many of the power industry’s contractors/ supply chain are based in the East of England
region, making it strategically important to the industry.
The age and gender profiles of the power industry’s workforce in the East of England are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East of England‘s
power workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.3 Power – London
In total, some 4,000 people are employed within the power industry in the London region
in approximately 100 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
4,000
100
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry’s workforce in London are very similar
to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in London’s power industry
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.4 Power – North East
In total, some 6,000 people are employed within the power industry in the North East
region in a very small number of companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
6,000
<50
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry’s workforce in the North East are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North East‘s power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
20
2.14.5 Power – North West
In total, some 5,000 people are employed within the power industry in the North West
region in approximately 90 companies; which makes this region the third smallest in
England in terms of the number of people employed in the industry.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
5,000
90
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry workforce in the North West are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North West‘s power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.6 Power – South East
In total, some 7,500 people are employed within the power industry in the South East
region in approximately 120 companies; which makes this region the second largest in
England in terms of the number of people employed in the industry.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
7,500
120
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry workforce in the South East are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South East‘s power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.7 Power – South West
In total, some 7,000 people are employed within the power industry in the South West
region in approximately 90 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
7,000
90
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry workforce in the South West are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South West‘s power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.8 Power – West Midlands
In total, some 11,500 people are employed within the power industry in the West
Midlands region in approximately 75 companies; which makes this region the largest in
England in terms of the number of people employed in the industry.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
11,500
75
Power
The age and gender profiles of the power industry workforce in the West Midlands are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the West Midlands‘ power
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
2.14.9 Power – Yorkshire and the Humber
In total, some 6,000 people are employed within the power industry in the Yorkshire and
Humber region in approximately 70 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
6,000
70
Power
21
The age and gender profiles of the power industry workforce in Yorkshire and Humber
are very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in Yorkshire and Humber‘s
power workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
22
3. Gas
3.1 A brief description of what the sub-sector covers at UK level
The term “beach to burner” aptly summarises the breadth of this industry as it primarily covers
the activities associated with the distribution of gas and the fitting/maintenance of gas
equipment within the customers’ property. However, it excludes the extraction of natural gas.
The gas industry can be split into two sub-sectors: Transmission & Distribution and Utilisation.
Transmission & Distribution
This consists of the transportation of gas from the beach terminals through the National
Transmission System, into the Local Distribution System, and then up to, and including, the
main control valve adjacent to the customers’ property.
This sub-sector also covers the storage and re-gasification of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG),
following its importation. Also covered is the manufacture and distribution of Liquefied
Petroleum Gas (LPG) and other bottled gases and the operation and maintenance of network
infrastructure (e.g. pipe laying, repair, maintenance and storage).
There are other areas of the industry which are of interest, for example the wholesale of solid,
liquid and gaseous fuels and related products in terms of the sale and distribution of LPG.
Similarly, we have an interest in the wholesale of chemical products.
Utilisation
This area consists of all activities which take place on the customers’ side of the main control
valve (including the meter). The major element of this sub-sector is gas fitters/installers (i.e.
Gas Safe registered gas installers).
The number of people employed in the gas industry is shown in the table below:
UK
England
Gas (Transmission & Distribution)
18,500
15,000
40.21, Manufacture of gas
6,000
5,500
40.22, Distribution and trade of gaseous fuels
11,500
8,500
through mains
Estimated Additional Self-Employed
1,000
500
Gas (Utilisation)
123,700
105,800
Gas Safe registered gas operatives
123,700
105,800
Source: Annual Business Inquiry (2007) and Corgi Register (2006)
NOTE: The totals of some rows and columns may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
3.2 Information on careers available and new emerging jobs, transferability of skills
career paths and opportunities for progression
Skills and Interests
To be a gas network operative you should:
• have a keen interest in and aptitude for practical tasks
• be able to read technical instructions and follow diagrams
• be both logical and methodical
• be polite, friendly and professional
• have drive and determination
• be aware of safe working practices
• be able to work alone or as part of a team
• be committed to self development
Occupations
The four main occupations in the network area of the industry are:
• Operatives – Assistant to a Team Leader (under instruction)
• Team Leader Main Layer – Installing and maintaining main gas pipe work
• Team Leader Service Layer – Installing and maintaining pipe work
from a main gas pipe to the meter
• Technician – Controls resources and involved with complex technical jobs
23
3.3 Information on pay scales in the sector
Starting salaries for young people and graduates entering the gas industry range from
£16,000 to £25,000. Upon completion of training these salaries can increase to between
£26,000 and £40,000, depending upon the occupation.
Average basic salaries (excluding overtime and bonuses) for a selection of occupations found
in the gas industry include:
Civil Engineer
£38,000
Commercial Gas Engineer
£30,000
Pipe Fitters
£33,000
Emergency Services Engineer
£30,000
Mains Layer
£30,000
Operatives
£24,000
Salaries can vary between employers and locations within the UK.
3.4 Information on entry requirements, application processes (e.g. Apprenticeships)
Training and Qualifications
To demonstrate knowledge and practical competence the training that you will need to
undertake with an employer will lead to completion of S/NVQ Gas Network Operations
(City & Guilds scheme number 6029) at either Level one or Level two. New entrants to
the industry will normally begin an S/NVQ at Level 1 and can progress onto higher
levels as part of their career development.
• Gas Network Operations Level 1
- Operative
• Gas Network Operations Level 2 (Service laying) - Team Leader
• Gas Network Operations Level 2 (Main laying) - Team Leader
• Gas Network Operations Level 3
- Technician
• Gas Network Engineering Management Level 4. - Front Line Management
Do I have to find an employer for the course?
You need to secure employment with a company working in the gas networks industry
to gain necessary work experience to complete the S/NVQ.
What do I do next?
Please contact a customer service advisor at Energy & Utility Skills on 0845 077 9922 for
further careers guidance for the gas networks industry or visit our website www.euskills.co.uk.
Further Steps:
Contact gas network companies in your area to secure a work placement or employment.
Additional information can be found on careers, getting started in the industry, career
pathways and progression on a electronic handout which is available by following the link to
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=499
An Apprenticeship in the gas industry is a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised
qualification, gain work experience and develop transferable skills.
Details of Apprenticeships in the Sector can be found at the following link:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=204
It is worth noting that National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) will not be required as part of
Apprenticeships from August 2010. For additional information on Apprenticeships please contact
Helen White, Apprenticeship Manager, on 0845 077 7034 or helen.white@euskills.co.uk
Additional information is available on a handout to be found at
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=499
24
Over the past 3 years Energy and Utility Skills have been involved in the development in 4 of the
17 new Diplomas, academic learning applied in real industry contexts. Three of these diplomas,
Engineering – Construction and the Built Environment – Environmental and Land Based Studies,
are currently being delivered in schools and colleges across England with many power and utility
companies working with teachers to deliver the qualification. Science is due to be offered from
2011. Currently, Local Authorities have been able to ‘opt in’ to offer the diplomas with national
entitlement coming in 2013.
3.5 Qualifications
Summary of Gas Qualifications available
Title of
Summary of Qualification
Qualification
Level 2 Utilities
This qualification has been designed for those
Control Centre
working in Utilities Control Centre Operations. To
Operations
achieve the award candidates must complete three
mandatory units which cover co-ordinate
communications for operational activities on utility
networks and assets; contribute to the handling of
incidents and resources; and contribute to an
effective and safe working environment.
Candidates must also complete one optional unit
from each of the optional groups.
Level 2 Utilities
Metering
Operations
This qualification is designed for those working in
Utilities Metering Operations. Candidates are
required to complete two mandatory units which
cover: ensure your own actions reduce risks to
health and safety: and solve problems for
customers. Candidates must also complete three
optional units from two optional groups, one of
which must be taken from Group B1. Group B1
contains units which cover: carry out meter reading
activities; remove install and commission meters;
and conduct metering surveys. Group B2 contains
units which include: rectify minor metering
installation defects; and conduct ancillary
operations for metering purposes.
Level 4 Utilities
Network Planning &
Management
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Utilities Network Planning and
Management, seeking to minimize the performance
of utilities networks. To achieve the award
candidates must complete six mandatory units
which include develop a strategy for operating,
maintaining and developing the utility network and
assets; evaluate and determine options for
operating, maintaining and developing the utility
network and assets; plan and implement
operational, maintenance and development
activities on the utility network and assets.
Candidates must also complete one unit from each
of the two optional groups.
25
Link
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10015917.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/Q1053270.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/1002301X.seo.aspx
Level 1 Gas
Network Operations
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Gas Network Operations. To achieve
the award candidates must complete eight
mandatory units which include assist in locating
and avoiding supply apparatus and sub-structures;
working under supervision excavate hole and
trenches in ground and pavement structures; assist
in preparing for re-instatement of excavation and
pavement surfaces; working under supervision,
contribute to an efficient and effective work
environment; and working under supervision,
contribute to Health, Safety and Environment in the
workplace. Candidates must also complete one
optional unit from a choice of two.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10020421.seo.aspx
Level 2 Domestic
Natural Gas
Installation
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Installation. To
achieve the award candidates must complete five
mandatory units which cover install natural gas
systems and components; commission and
decommission natural gas systems; maintain a
safe working environment for all natural gas related
work; establish, maintain and develop effective
working relationships with others for all natural gas
related work; and apply gas safety measures to
domestic natural related work activities.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019157.seo.aspx
Level 2 Domestic
Natural Gas
Installation &
Maintenance (ACS)
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Installation and
Maintenance. To achieve the award candidates
must complete six mandatory units which cover
install natural gas systems and components;
commission and decommission natural gas
systems; service and maintain natural gas systems
and components; maintain a safe working
environment for all natural gas related work; and
establish, maintain and develop effective working
relationships with others for all natural gas related
work. These qualifications have been developed to
align with the ACS and upon completion will give
eligibility for registration on Gas Safe Register
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019169.seo.aspx
Level 2 Domestic
Natural Gas
Maintenance
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Maintenance. To
achieve the award candidates must complete five
mandatory units which cover commission and
decommission natural gas systems; service and
maintain natural gas systems and components;
maintain a safe working environment for all natural
gas related work; establish, maintain and develop
effective working relationships with others for all
natural gas related work; and apply gas safety
measures to domestic natural gas related work
activities.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019170.seo.aspx
26
Level 2 Gas
Network Operations
– Mainlaying
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Gas Network Operations – Mainlaying.
To achieve the award candidates must complete
nine mandatory units which include locate and
avoid supply apparatus and sub-structures during
gas network operations (mainlaying); excavate
holes and trenches in ground and pavement
structures to access the gas network (mainlaying);
re-instate excavation and pavement surfaces after
gas network operations (mainlaying); and
contribute to an efficient and effective work
environment during gas network operations
(mainlaying). Candidates must also complete four
optional units from three optional groups.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10020445.seo.aspx
Level 2 Gas
Network Operations
Servicelaying
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Gas Network Operations –
Servicelaying. To achieve the award candidates
must complete nine mandatory units which include
locate and avoid supply apparatus and substructures during gas network operations
(servicelaying); excavate holes and trenches in
ground and pavement structures to access the gas
network (servicelaying); re-instate excavation and
pavement surfaces after gas network operations
(servicelaying); and contribute to an efficient and
effective work environment during gas network
operations (servicelaying). Candidates must also
complete four optional units from three optional
groups.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10020433.seo.aspx
Level 3 Domestic
Natural Gas
Installation
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Installation. To
achieve the award candidates must complete nine
mandatory units which include design natural gas
systems; plan the work activities for natural gas
systems and components; commission and
decommission natural gas systems; maintain a
safe working environment for all natural gas related
work; apply gas safety measures to domestic
natural gas related work; install complex natural
gas systems and components; specify programmes
for working on natural gas systems; and specify
programmes for working on natural gas systems.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019182.seo.aspx
Level 3 Domestic
Natural Gas
Installation &
Maintenance (ACS)
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Installation and
Maintenance. To achieve the award candidates
must complete ten mandatory units which include
design natural gas systems; specify programmes
for working on natural gas systems; plan the work
activities for natural gas systems and components;
install complex natural gas systems and
components; commission and decommission
natural gas systems; and service and maintain
complex natural gas systems and components.
These qualifications have been developed to align
with the Accredited Certification Scheme-ACS; for
gas operatives and upon completion will give
eligibility for registration on Gas Safe Register.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019194.seo.aspx
27
Level 3 Domestic
Natural Gas
Maintenance
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Domestic Natural Gas Maintenance. To
achieve the award candidates must complete nine
mandatory units which include design natural gas
systems; specify programmes for working on
natural gas systems; plan the work activities for
natural gas systems and components; commission
and decommission natural gas systems; service
and maintain complex natural gas systems and
components; maintain a safe working environment
for all natural gas related work; and establish,
maintain and develop effective working
relationships with others for all natural gas related
work.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10019200.seo.aspx
Level 3 Gas
Emergency Service
Operations (ACS)
This very specific and specialist gas award is
unique to a certain group of gas engineers primarily
working for gas utility companies nation wide in
areas that cover matters of critical gas health and
safety situations.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/50015382.seo.aspx
They have to cover incidents and gas related call
outs that require rapid determination of factors that
can relate to life and death situations culminating in
rapid actions to minimize the risk to life and people
in the close vicinity of these real or potential gas
leakage situations.
Level 3 Gas
Network Operations
– Craft
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Gas Network Operations – Craft. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
twelve mandatory units which include locate and
avoid supply apparatus and sub-structures in
diverse situations; excavate holes and trenches in
ground and pavement structures in diverse
situations; re-instate excavation and pavement
surfaces in diverse situations; contribute to an
efficient and effective work environment in diverse
situations; and contribute to health, safety and
environment in the workplace in diverse situations.
Candidates must also complete a total of five
optional units from three optional groups.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10020457.seo.aspx
Level 4 Gas
Network
Engineering
Management
This qualification provides an industry standard for
Gas Engineering Managers. It is an NVQ based
directly on NOS, developed on the basis of
research by the SSB (EU Skills).
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/1003349X.seo.aspx
28
OU Level 4
Engineering
Surveying, Systems
or Services
This qualification has been designed as a high
level inspection award which recognises the
responsibility, integrity and personal authority
vested in an Engineer Surveyor. The level 4 award
has been equated to the membership requirements
of an Incorporated Engineer for the Professional
Engineering Institutions. The qualification
recognises the common functionality between
surveying engineering equipment, systems or
services and provides a qualification for engineers
involved in one or more of these areas of activity,
ensuring the fitness of purpose and their conformity
with safety and statutory regulations. The
qualification also has wider application to engineers
responsible for the management and compliance of
engineering equipment, Systems or Services with
health, safety and environmental and other
legislative or regulatory frameworks.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10031133.seo.aspx
OU Level 4
Pipelines (Oil &
Gas) Engineering
Management
No description available contact awarding body for
details
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10033488.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
2 Certificate in
Domestic Natural
Gas Installation and
Maintenance
This qualification has been designed for those
working/starting out in the Domestic Natural Gas
Installation and Maintenance sub sector of the gas
Industry. To achieve the Certificate learners must
complete units which include: specify programmes
for working on natural gas systems; plan the work
activities for natural gas systems and components;
install natural gas systems and components;
commission and decommission natural gas
systems; and service and maintain natural gas
systems and components.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10047852.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
3 Certificate in
Complex Domestic
Natural Gas
Installation and
Maintenance
This qualification has been designed for those
working in the Domestic Natural Gas Installation
and Maintenance sub sector of the gas Industry. To
achieve the Certificate at Level 3 learners must
complete units which include: design of systems:
specify programmes for working on complex
natural gas systems; plan the work activities for
complex natural gas systems and components;
install complex natural gas systems and
components; commission and decommission
natural gas systems; and service and maintain
natural gas systems and components.
This qualification has been developed to align with
the Accredited Certification Scheme-ACS; for gas
operatives in terms of underpinning knowledge and
gas safety requirements.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10047864.seo.aspx
29
City & Guilds Level
3 Certificate in Gas
Emergency Service
Operations
This qualification has been designed for those
working in the Natural Gas Emergency Service
Provsiosn-ESP sub sector of the gas Industry.
This qualification has been developed to align with
the Accredited Certification Scheme-ACS; for gas
operatives in terms of underpinning knowledge and
gas safety requirements. Combined with the gas
NVQ-ESP this qualification upon successful
completion will give learners eligibility for Gas Safe
Register standard gas operative national
registration (legal requirement). The main
advantage of this is that learners do not have to be
double assessed against further external gas
safety assessments; these are combined in the
national GAS NVQs and VRQs.
http://www.accreditedqual
ifications.org.uk/qualificati
on/10047876.seo.aspx
A number of existing qualifications are being phased out and from August 2010 will no longer
be available due to the transition to the new Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF)
3.6 Data on employment and labour market trends and forecasts
Gender
The figure below shows the proportion of employees who are female within each occupational
group in the gas (Transmission & Distribution) industry and compares them to the England
average. No data is available on the number of females working in the gas (Utilisation)
industry.
90
80
Percentage of Workforce
70
60
50
England
EU Skills
40
Electricity
Gas (Trans & Dist)
Waste Management
30
Water
20
10
0
Managers &
Senior Officials
Professionals
Associate
Professional &
Technical
Admin &
Secretarial
Skilled Trades
Sales &
Customer
Service
Process, Plant &
Machine
Operatives
Elementary
Occupational Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001.
In general terms, there is a strong gender bias within the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry, with high concentrations of female workers in administrative and secretarial and
sales and customer service roles.
Only around 25% of managerial employees are female, compared to around 34% across the
UK economy. Females make up 67% of the workforce within the administrative and
secretarial occupations but only 17% of professionals and 25% of associate professionals.
30
Age
The figure below shows the age profile of the workforce currently employed in the electricity
industry in England.
Age profile of gas industry workforce (England)
35
Percentage of Workforce
30
25
England
20
EU Skills
Electricity
Gas (Trans & Dist)
15
Gas (Utilisation)
Waste Management
Water
10
5
0
16-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
64+
Age Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001 and CORGI Register.
The data shown above (dark blue column) suggests that the gas (Transmission &
Distribution) industry has a similar age profile to that of the UK as a whole; with only slightly
more 35-54 year-olds. One reason for this is the high proportion of admin/ secretarial and
sales and customer service occupations that are employed by the industry.
EU Skills’ own research shows that in many of the higher-level technical and engineering
occupations there is an issue related to the high number of workers who are due to retire
within the next 10-to-15 years, and for whom replacements may be difficult to find in sufficient
numbers.
The age profile of the gas (Utilisation) industry is significantly older than average, with almost
half of the workforce being aged over 45 years and just one-quarter aged under 34 years old.
The future
In 2002 the three companies that distribute gas around England (National Grid, Wales West
Utilities and Northern Gas Networks) started a 30-year programme to replace all of the old
iron gas mains that are within 30 metres of a property. This is a huge investment programme
for the industry which will replace in the region of 3,000km of pipeline each year through to
2032.
Forecasts made by Oxford Economics suggest that around 600 new workers per year will be
required by the gas industry between 2008 and 2017 and that 18% of these will be graduates.
The occupations where demand for new recruits will be largest include:
• Emergency – First Call Operatives
(Level 3)
The role includes a response to emergency calls and first line investigation.
•
Repair Team Leaders
(Level 3)
Their main responsibility is to repair damaged mains and services.
•
Operations First Line Managers
(Level 3)
31
Responsible for the cost-efficient operation of gas supply within the local work team.
Health & safety and environmental issues are key factors.
•
Maintenance Craftpersons
(Level 3)
Responsible for the technical aspects of installation and maintenance at craft level.
3.7 Skill shortages
In 2007, the Gas Distribution Networks worked with EU Skills to develop a dynamic workforce
planning model enabling the industry to gain a national 15 year view of recruitment and
training needs across key technical and engineering skill sets. The outputs of the model
were instrumental in securing £72m of investment in skill development through Ofgem, the
economic regulator.
The main skill shortages that exist in the gas (Transmission & Distribution) industry at the
moment are for gas engineers, both at Chartered level (NVQ level 4) and maintenance/
installation levels (NVQ level 3).
Due to the lack of graduates and other suitably skilled people looking for employment
opportunities in the gas (Transmission & Distribution) industry and the significant capital
investment programme that is currently underway, it is highly unlikely that these skills
shortages will be resolved any time soon.
These skills shortages are particularly severe at the moment due to (i) the age profile of the
existing workforce means that many workers will retire over the next ten years and (ii) the
workforce requirements of the 30-year iron gas mains replacement programme which started
in 2002.
The industry has now committed to updating the workforce planning model during the
financial year 2010/11, and to providing a far more comprehensive view of the industry as a
whole by engaging with contractor organisations to assess the impact of planned investment
on their workforce requirements. Similar to the exercise undertaken in 2007, this will provide
crucial information on the volume of apprentices and new trainees needed on a regional
basis, potentially identifying key areas of focus for IAG providers.
There are currently no skills shortages identified in the gas (Utilisation) industry.
3.8 Information on opportunities for adults changing career direction
The best way to start a career in the gas industry is to apply to an employer in the industry
and secure employment or work experience with them. The work experience element is
essential for working in the gas industry but this can be supplemented by relevant training
such as an S/NVQ or off-the-job college based qualifications; such as a Technical Certificate
that may lead to a nationally recognised qualification.
Additional information can be found on careers, getting started in the industry, career
pathways and progression on a electronic handout which is available by following the link to
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=499.
3.9 Information on points of entry or transfer into a sector from another area sector.
The best way to start a career in the gas industry is to apply to an employer in the industry
and secure employment or work experience with them. The work experience element is
essential for working in the gas industry but this can be supplemented by relevant training
such as an S/NVQ or off-the-job College based qualifications. For example, a Technical
Certificate may lead to a nationally recognised qualification. An Apprenticeship in the gas
industry is a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification and gain work
experience.
32
3.10 Job profiles
Position
Gas Service Engineer
Gas Network Engineer
Network Operative
Technician
Engineering Assistant
Network Officer
Network Operations Manager
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=233
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=234
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/gas-job-profiles/network-operativetransmission-distribution/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/gas-job-profiles/technician-transmissiondistribution/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/gas-job-profiles/engineering-assistanttransmission-distribution/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/gas-job-profiles/network-officertransmission-distribution/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/gas-job-profiles/network-operationsmanager-transmission-distribution/
3.11 Case studies
Name
Ivan Bell –
Commercial
Operations
Director
Chris Black Apprentice
Gas Service
Engineer
Paula Smith Apprentice
Employer
Phoenix
Natural
Gas
Position
Commercial
Operations Director
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=294
Scottish
Gas
Apprentice Gas
Service Engineer
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=40
8
Scottish
Gas
Apprentice
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=28
9
3.12 FAQs
The majority of enquiries that come in to Energy & Utility Skills are processed by our Business
Support function. Each member of the team has a portfolio of information which contains
information designed to answer incoming enquiries. The information for the Gas sector can
only be reached via an internal link on our website therefore a hard copy of the detailed
information has been included with the paper copy of this submission.
Q) What jobs are available in the Gas Sector?
Many of the jobs in the gas industry are highly skilled and are in huge demand in a wide range of
engineering, science and technology based industries. There is an increasing need for skilled
people to work in UK engineering and technology businesses so that the UK can compete
successfully in the world economy. We then provide details of the role of Gas Service Engineer
and Gas Network Engineer.
Q) What Apprenticeships are available in the Gas Sector?
An Apprenticeship in the gas industry will involve you undertaking one of the following NVQ's with
an employer:
•
•
•
•
•
Domestic Natural Gas Installation and Maintenance Level 2 or Level 3
Domestic Natural Gas Installation Level 3
Domestic Natural Gas Maintenance Level 3
Domestic Natural Gas Emergency Service Operations Level 3
Gas Network Operations Level 2 or Level 3
It is worth noting that National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) will not be required as part of
Apprenticeships from August 2010. For additional information on Apprenticeships please contact
Helen White, Apprenticeship Manager on 0845 077 7034 or helen.white@euskills.co.uk
33
You will be given the chance to develop expertise and knowledge through on-the-job assessment
as well gaining vital skills such as team work and problem solving.
You will learn new skills at both the training centre and on-the-job as well as completing a
Technical Certificate in the same subject plus achieving key skills. You need to be employed to be
able to undertake an Apprenticeship. Energy & Utility Skills do not recruit Apprentices for the
sector however we can give you information on what next steps you can take such as lists of
employers offering apprenticeships. Energy & Utility Skills can provide this information by region
i.e. England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Q) What courses are available in the Gas sector?
Energy & Utility Skills run the following schemes for the sector:
• SHEA Gas
• Multi Layered Pipe
• Network Construction Operations (Gas)
• Plant for Utilities Schemes
• Safe Control of Operations
• Safe Control of Operations (NI)
• Utility Safety Health & Environmental Awareness (Gas)
• Cross Country Pipelines Health & Safety Passport
• Utility Excavations
• Utility Network Construction Supervisors
Details of the schemes can be found by using the following link
http://www.eusr.co.uk/schemes?status=1465&type=0&industry=1473&submit3.x=22&submit3
.y=9
3.13 Sources of additional information, web-links etc
Learn more about the gas industry by viewing the following websites:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) independent body serving
the gas industry.
Ofgem regulates the electricity and gas markets in Great Britain
Gas Safe provides technical expertise and support for its members
Scenta is a portal for science, engineering and technology (SET) careers information.
City & Guilds offers learners over 500 qualifications in 28 industry areas
RIG Energy are a specialist engineering recruitment agency
Utility Job Search is a job site dedicated to the candidates in the UK utilities industry
Just Utilities is a job site advertising vacancies in the utility industry
3.14 Gas – Regional Information
3.14.1 Gas – East Midlands
In total, around 1,000 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the East Midlands region in a very small number of companies.
Just over 12,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 5,700
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
1,000
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
12,200
5,700
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the East Midlands are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East Midlands’ gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
34
3.14.2 Gas – East of England
In total, around 2,500 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the East of England region in a very small number of companies.
Almost 10,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 4,300
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
2,500
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
9,700
4,300
Many of the gas industry’s contractors/ supply chain are based in the East of England
region, making it strategically important to the industry.
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the East of England are very similar
to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East of England‘s gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.3 Gas – London
In total, around 1,500 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the London region in a very small number of companies.
Just over 11,000 workers are also employed in the gas (downstream) industry in 5,200
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
1,500
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
11,100
5,200
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in London are very similar to those
seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in London‘s gas workforce
are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.4 Gas – North East
In total, around 1,000 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the North East region in a very small number of companies.
Just over 12,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 5,700
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
1,000
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
5,100
1,800
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the North East are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North East’s gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.5 Gas – North West
35
In total, around 1,500 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the North West region in a very small number of companies.
Almost 15,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 5,800
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
1,500
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
14,900
5,800
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the North West are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North West’s gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.6 Gas – South East
In total, around 3,500 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the South East region in a very small number of companies.
Almost 11,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 5,000
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
3,500
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
10,600
5,000
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the South East are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South East’s gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.7 Gas – South West
In total, around 1,500 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the South West region in a very small number of companies.
Just over 20,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 7,800
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
1,500
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
20,200
7,800
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the South West are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South West’s gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.8 Gas – West Midlands
In total, around 4,000 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the West Midlands region in a very small number of companies.
36
Around 11,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 4,400
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
4,000
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
11,000
4,400
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in the West Midlands are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the West Midlands’ gas
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
3.14.9 Gas – Yorkshire and the Humber
In total, around 2,000 people are employed in the gas (Transmission & Distribution)
industry in the Yorkshire and Humber region in a very small number of companies.
Around 11,000 workers are also employed in the gas (Utilisation) industry in 4,400
companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
Gas (Transmission &
Distribution)
2,000
<50
Gas (Utilisation)
11,000
4,400
The age and gender profiles of the gas workforce in Yorkshire and Humber are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in Yorkshire and Humber‘s
gas workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
37
4. Waste Management
4.1 A brief description of what the sub-sector covers at UK level
This industry is primarily concerned with the collection, transport, treatment and final
management of waste and recyclables. Once waste is generated from other sectors of the
economy, it is collected and passed through a series of processes which result in either
valuable or non-valuable outputs which exit the sector in an appropriate manner. Nonvaluable outputs, which consist of materials that are unsuitable for recovery and reuse, are
either sent to landfill or incinerated to produce energy, heat or power. Valuable outputs (such
as paper, glass, plastics, metals, etc.), once they have been dismantled and sorted, then
leave the waste management sector and can be remade/recycled into a new product; this
process is considered to be outside of the waste management sector because it is essentially
a manufacturing operation.
As with the process of remaking/recycling of waste materials into new products, there are
other, sometimes indistinct boundary lines between this sector and other areas of the
economy, particularly in the production of electricity and gas. Energy-from-waste plants (or
Energy Recovery Facilities) are becoming increasingly common as the drive away from
landfill continues. This process results in the production of electricity, heat or power and is
becoming to be regarded as part of the renewable energy agenda. Technologies used such
as Pyrolysis, Incineration etc have been taken into account with the provision of the
information here. Also, a common by-product of landfill sites is the production of methane gas
which can be tapped and used, primarily on-site. However, as energy-from-waste plants and
landfill sites are primarily concerned with the handling of waste rather than the production of
electricity, heat, power or gas, they are considered part of the waste management sector.
The number of people employed across the sector and in each industry is shown in the table
below:
UK
England
Waste Management
141,000
110,000
Integrated Waste Management Companies
29,000
22,500
Public Waste Collection, Disposal Authorities
60,000
47,000
and LAWDCs
SMEs – Collection, Processing and Disposal
45,000
35,000
Support Services - Consultants
1,000
500
- Contractors
3,000
2,500
- Plant/Equipment
2,000
1,500
Others, including Regulators
500
*
Source: Energy & Utility Skills Labour Market Investigation of the UK Waste Management Industry, 2006
NOTE: The totals of some rows and columns may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
* Denotes numbers are suppressed to maintain confidentiality.
A basic introduction to the Sector can be found by visiting the following link
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=218
4.2 Information on careers available and new emerging jobs, transferability of skills
career paths and opportunities for progression
Energy & Utility Skills provide information on the following job roles:
• Recycling Officer - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=236
• Recycling Operative - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=237
• Refuse Operative - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=238
• Waste Management Officer - www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=239
• Transfer Station Labourer - www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=240
• Energy from Waste Engineer - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-managementjob-profiles/energy-from-waste-engineer/
• Environmental Engineer - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/environmental-engineer/
• Landfill Gas Technician - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/landfill-gas-technician/
• Energy from Waste Plant Operator - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/wastemanagement-job-profiles/energy-from-waste-plant-operator/
38
The roles on the careers section of the Energy & Utility website are constantly reviewed to
ensure the needs of the industry are met and as such are updated on a regular basis to
reflect changes in technology and terminology.
The format of the added roles differs from previous entries. This was discussed with
employers in November 2009 as part of ongoing consultation with industry.
Each of the links to these roles contains additional information on starting in the role, training,
progression and salary information. Many jobs in the waste management industry are with local
authorities or private waste management companies so we also provide information on this at the
following link - http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=241
Over the past 3 years Energy and Utility Skills have been involved in the development in 4 of the
17 new Diplomas, academic learning applied in real industry contexts. Three of these diplomas,
Engineering – Construction and the Built Environment – Environmental and Land Based Studies,
are currently being delivered in schools and colleges across England with many power and utility
companies working with teachers to deliver the qualification. Science is due to be offered from
2011. Currently, Local Authorities have been able to ‘opt in’ to offer the diplomas with national
entitlement coming in 2013.
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=205
4.3 Information on pay scales in the sector
Starting salaries for people entering the waste management industry range from £16,000 to
£25,000. Graduates entering a company’s graduate programme can start on as much as
£21,000. Upon completion of training these salaries can increase to between £26,000 and
£35,000, depending upon the occupation.
Average basic salaries (excluding overtime and bonuses) for a selection of occupations found
in the waste management industry include:
Recycling/Refuse Disposal Manager
£31,000
Environmental Engineer
£30,000
Energy from Waste Engineer
£30,000
Assistant Waste Manager
£29,000
Recycling Officer
£28,000
Landfill Gas Technician
£20-25,000
Materials Buyer
£18,000
Refuse Operatives
£18,000
Energy from Waste Plant Operator
£15,000
Salaries can vary between employers and locations within the UK.
4.4 Information on entry requirements, application processes (e.g. Apprenticeships)
Additional information on waste management, including 14-19 Diplomas, research reports,
training providers and Apprenticeships can be found by following the link to
http://www.euskills.co.uk/waste/index.php?pageID=419
The best way to start a career in the industry is to apply to an employer; these include your local
authority and private waste management companies. An employer may then support you with the
relevant training such as S/NVQ. Entry requirements to jobs in the waste management industry
range from no formal qualifications, through to Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Degrees.
Throughout any career in the waste management industry you will be provided with the necessary
on and off-the-job training, including refresher training and new skills training, to enable you to
carry out your job competently. You can also become a member of the Chartered Institution of
Wastes Management (CIWM). Energy & Utility Skills is currently formalising Apprenticeships at
Levels 2 and 3 in Waste Management and it is hoped that both will become available from
September 2010.
The generic homepage for Apprenticeships can be found via the following link:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=211
39
4.5 Qualifications
Summary of Waste Qualifications available
Title of
Summary of Qualification
Qualification
City & Guilds Level No details available – contact awarding body
1 NVQ in Recycling for details
Operations
Link
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10060406.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
1 in Waste
Management
Operations
The purpose and aim of this qualification is to
provide a nationally recognised qualification at
this level for new entrants to the sector; the
waste management industry
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
Q1051037.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
2 NVQ in Recycling
Operations
No description available – contact awarding
body for details
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10060418.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
2 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations
Derived from units developed by the lead
body for the waste management industry, this
qualification comprises six mandatory units in:
contributing to the maintenance of
organisation's work and a healthy and safe
working environment, maintain working
relationships, maintain information systems.
Candidates must also complete four optional
units to complete this award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
Q1051038.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
3 NVQ in the
Management of
Recycling
Operations
The aim of the qualification is to provide the
candidate with recognition of their
competence in the recycling environment
relating to the individuals job role
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
Q1051038.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
3 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations: Civic
Amenity Site
This qualification was designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Civic Amenity. To achieve the award
candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which cover the reception of civic
amenity wastes; control the movement,
sorting and storage of civic amenity wastes;
monitor procedures to control risks to health
and safety; control work activities on a civic
amenity site; control the transfer of recovered
and waste materials from civic amenity sites;
ensure protection of the environment on civic
amenity sites; and create effective working
relationships.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022296.seo.aspx
40
City & Guilds Level
3 Waste
Management
Operations: Closed
Landfill
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Closed Landfill. To achieve the award
candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which include site operations on closed
landfill sites; control maintenance of other
engineering operations; support the efficient
use of resources; ensure protection of the
environment on closed landfill sites; and
create effective working relationships.
Candidates must also complete one optional
unit
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022302.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
3 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations: Inert
Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Inert Waste. To achieve the award candidates
must complete four mandatory units which
cover monitor procedures to control risks to
health and safety; control maintenance and
other engineering ops.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022284.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
3 in Waste
Management
Supervision
Derived from units developed by the lead
body for the waste management industry, this
qualification comprises 7 mandatory units to
be completed in: meet waste management
requirements, efficient use of resources,
develop and maintain effective working
relationships to achieve these objectives,
manage information, ensure compliance with
health and safety legislation, deal with
emergencies. Candidates must also complete
two optional units to achieve this award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
Q1051039.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 Management of
Recycling
Operations
The aim of the qualification is to provide the
candidate with recognition of their
competence in the Recycling environment
relating to the individuals job role
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50014584.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in the
Management of
Recycling
Operations: Small
Scale Operations
The aim of the qualification is to provide the
candidate with recognition of their
competence in the Recycling environment
relating to the individuals job role
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
5001464X.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Incineration
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Incineration. To achieve the award
candidates must complete 11 mandatory units
which include control the reception of
hazardous waste; control site operations on a
waste incineration facility; control
maintenance of other engineering operations;
control improvements to waste management
operations and create effective working
relationships. Candidates must also complete
one optional unit. Candidates may complete
the additional unit although this is not a
requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022272.seo.aspx
41
City & Guilds Level
4 in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Landfill
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Landfill Hazardous Waste.
Candidates must complete 7 mandatory units
which include monitor procedures to control
risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and engineering operations; and
ensure protection of the environment on
landfill sites. Candidates must also complete
five optional units from five optional groups.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022211.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Landfill
Non-Hazardous
Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Landfill Non-Hazardous Waste.
Candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which include monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; control improvements to waste
management operations; and ensure
protection of the environment on landfill sites.
Candidates must also complete five optional
units from five optional groups. Candidates
may complete the additional unit although this
is not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022223.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Transfer
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Transfer Hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
eight mandatory units which include control
the reception of hazardous waste; control the
movement, sorting and storage of hazardous
wastes; monitor procedures to control risks to
health and safety; control maintenance and
other engineering operations; and control
improvements to waste management
operations. Candidates must also complete
four optional units from four optional groups.
Candidates may complete the additional unit
although this not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022259.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Transfer
Non Hazardous
Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Transfer Non-hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
eight mandatory units which include control
the reception of non-hazardous waste; control
the movement, sorting and storage of nonhazardous wastes; monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; and control improvements to
waste management operations. Candidates
must also complete four optional units from
four optional groups. Candidates may
complete the additional unit although this is
not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022260.seo.aspx
42
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Treatment
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Treatment Hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
eight mandatory units which include control
the reception of hazardous waste; control the
movement, sorting and storage of hazardous
wastes; monitor procedures to control risks to
health and safety; control maintenance and
other engineering operations; and control
improvements to waste management
operations. Candidates must also complete
four optional units from four optional groups.
Candidates may complete the additional unit
although this not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022235.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Treatment of Non –
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Treatment Non-Hazardous Waste.
To achieve the award candidates must
complete eight mandatory units which include
control the reception of non-hazardous waste;
control the movement, sorting and storage of
non- hazardous wastes; monitor procedures
to control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; and control improvements to
waste management operations. Candidates
must also complete four optional units from
four optional groups. Candidates may
complete the additional unit although this is
not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022247.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 1
in Cleaning and
Support Services
This qualification is designed for those
providing cleaning and support services
including street cleansing services.
Candidates must complete three mandatory
units which cover maintain service delivery;
ensure your own actions reduce risks to
health and safety; and work as a member of a
team. Candidates must also complete three
optional units from a choice of seven.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10023227.seo.aspx
43
WAMITAB Level 1
Recycling
Operations
This new qualification will replace the
recycling options that are currently included in
the Waste Management Operations NVQ
Level 1. This qualification will be more
appropriate to recycling operatives and more
accurately reflect the scope of their job roles.
Additionally this qualification will provide a
structured development pathway for recycling
operatives which will lead to improved
motivation of staff and help to reduce the high
levels of turnover in this occupation. This new
qualification provides option routes, through a
mix of mandatory and option units, to qualify
employees in every part of this functional
area. It reflects the full range of activities and
responsibilities carried out by recycling
operatives in the public, private and
community sectors and covers the full range
of tasks that are carried out in materials
recycling and processing.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10061666.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 1
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations.
To achieve the award candidates must
complete five units which cover contribute to
the maintenance of a healthy and safe
working environment; comply with emergency
procedures; work in a team; contribute to the
maintenance of the quality of the
organisation's work; and maintain effective
working relationships. Candidates must also
complete three optional units.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10027774.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 2
NVQ in Cleaning
and Support
Services (Highways
and Land)
The qualification is aimed at Street Cleaning
personnel who are required to use driver or
pedestrian controlled vehicles or other
equipments for cleansing of highways and
land. The qualifications provides flexibility in
choice of Option Units to meet the particular
requirements of the employee in accordance
with employer needs
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10023215.seo.aspx
44
WAMITAB Level 2
Recycling
Operations
This new qualification will replace the
recycling options that are currently included in
the Waste Management Operations NVQ
Level 2. This qualification will be more
appropriate to recycling operatives and more
accurately reflect the scope of their job roles.
Additionally this qualification will provide a
structured development pathway for recycling
operatives which will lead to improved
motivation of staff and help to reduce the high
levels of turnover in this occupation. This new
qualification provides option routes, through a
mix of mandatory and option units, to qualify
employees in every part of this functional
area. It reflects the full range of activities and
responsibilities carried out by recycling
operatives in the public, private and
community sectors and the full range of tasks
that are carried out in materials recycling and
processing.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10061678.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 2
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations.
To achieve the award candidates must
complete six mandatory units which cover
promote and maintain quality of the
organisations’ work; contribute to the
maintenance of a healthy and safe working
environment; develop and maintain effective
working relationships; comply with emergency
procedures; work in a team; and maintain
information systems to support work.
Candidates must also complete four optional
units.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10027816.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 3
NVQ in the
Management of
Recycling
Operations
Recycling materials is at the heart of
sustainable development policy and practice
across the UK and Europe. The recycling
industry is in a period of rapid growth and
extends from the community sector to very
large multi-national organisations with
employees in both the public/private sectors.
This new qualification covers the functions
required to ensure effective management of
recycling operations. It is suitable for those
moving into first line management posts within
this occupational area.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
5001299X.seo.aspx
45
WAMITAB Level 3
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations: Civic
Amenity Site
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Civic Amenity. To achieve the award
candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which cover control the reception of civic
amenity wastes; control the movement,
sorting and storage of civic amenity wastes;
monitor procedures to control risks to health
and safety; control work activities on a civic
amenity site; control the transfer of recovered
and waste materials from civic amenity sites;
ensure protection of the environment on civic
amenity sites; and create effective working
relationships. Candidates must also complete
one optional unit.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026484.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 3
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations: Closed
Landfill
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Closed Landfill. To achieve the award
candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which include control site operations on
closed landfill sites; control maintenance of
other engineering operations; support the
efficient use of resources; ensure protection of
the environment on closed landfill sites; and
create effective working relationships.
Candidates must also complete one optional
unit. Candidates may complete the additional
unit although this not a requirement for the
award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026496.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 3
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations: Inert
Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Inert Waste. To achieve the award candidates
must complete four mandatory units covering
risks to health and safety, control
maintenance, control improvements to waste
management operations and create effective
working relationships. Candidates must also
complete six optional units from six optional
groups. Candidates may complete the
additional unit although it is not a requirement
for the award
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026502.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 3
NVQ in Waste
Management
Supervision
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Supervision.
To achieve the award candidates must
complete seven mandatory units which
include maintain activities to meet waste
management requirements; support the
efficient use of resources on waste
management facilities; develop and maintain
effective working relationships on waste
management facilities; lead the work of teams
and individuals to achieve objectives; manage
information for action on waste management
facilities; and ensure compliance with health
and safety protection of the environment and
other legislation. Candidates must also
complete two optional units.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10027828.seo.aspx
46
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in the
Management of
Recycling
Operations
Recycling materials is at the heart of
sustainable development policy and practice
across the UK and Europe. The recycling
industry is in a period of rapid growth and
extends from the community sector to very
large multi-national organisations with
employees in both the public and private
sectors. This new qualification covers
functions required for effective management
of medium to large recycling facilities.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50012988.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in the
Management of
Recycling
Operations: Small
Scale Operations
The aim of the qualification is to provide the
candidate with recognition of their
competence in the Recycling environment
relating to the individuals job role
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
5001464X.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Managing
Waste Collections
Operations
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Managing Waste Collection
Operations. To achieve the award candidates
must complete ten mandatory units which
include control the collection of wastes;
ensure compliance with operating procedures;
maintain effective response to waste
collection emergencies; control working
operations for waste collection and transport;
control improvements in waste collection
operations; ensure protection of the
environment in waste collection; and
recommend, monitor and control the use of
resources on waste management facilities.
Candidates must also complete three optional
units.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10027841.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Incineration
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Incineration. To achieve the award
candidates must complete eleven mandatory
units including the control of reception of
hazardous waste; control site operations on a
waste incineration facility; control
maintenance of other engineering operations;
control improvements to waste management
operations; and create effective working
relationships. Candidates must also complete
one optional unit. Candidates may complete
the additional unit although this is not a
requirement for the award
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026538.seo.aspx
47
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Landfill
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Landfill Hazardous Waste.
Candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which include monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; control improvements to waste
management operations; and ensure
protection of the environment on landfill sites.
Candidates must also complete five optional
units from five optional groups. Candidates
may also complete the additional unit
although this not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
1002654X.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Landfill
Non-Hazardous
Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Landfill Non-Hazardous Waste.
Candidates must complete seven mandatory
units which include monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; control improvements to waste
management operations; and ensure
protection of the environment on landfill sites.
Candidates must also complete five optional
units from five optional groups. Candidates
may complete the additional unit although this
is not a requirement for the award.
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026551.seo.aspx
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Transfer
Hazardous Waste
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Transfer Hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award the candidates must
complete eight mandatory units which include
control the reception of hazardous waste;
control the movement, sorting and storage of
hazardous wastes; monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; and control improvements to
waste management operations. Candidates
must also complete four optional units from
four optional groups. Candidates may
complete the additional unit although this is
not a requirement for the award
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026563.seo.aspx
48
WAMITAB Level 4
Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing Transfer
of Hazardous
Waste
WAMITAB Level 4
NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Treatment
Hazardous Waste
City & Guilds Level
4 NVQ in Waste
Management
Operations:
Managing
Treatment Non –
Hazardous Waste
WAMITAB Level 3
Award in the
Principles and
Practices of
Sustainable Waste
Management
WAMITAB Level 4
Award in Waste
Treatment
Technologies
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Transfer Non-hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
eight mandatory units which include control
the reception of non-hazardous waste; control
the movement, sorting and storage of nonhazardous wastes; monitor procedures to
control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; and control improvements to
waste management operations. Candidates
must also complete four optional units from
four optional groups. Candidates may
complete the additional unit although this is
not a requirement for the award.
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Treatment Hazardous Waste. To
achieve the award candidates must complete
eight mandatory units which include control
the reception of hazardous waste; control the
movement, sorting and storage of hazardous
wastes; monitor procedures to control risks to
health and safety; control maintenance and
other engineering operations; and control
improvements to waste management
operations. Candidates must also complete
four optional units from four optional groups.
Candidates may complete the additional unit
although this not a requirement for the award.
This qualification has been designed for those
working in Waste Management Operations:
Managing Treatment Non-Hazardous Waste.
To achieve the award candidates must
complete eight mandatory units which include
control the reception of non-hazardous waste;
control the movement, sorting and storage of
non- hazardous wastes; monitor procedures
to control risks to health and safety; control
maintenance and other engineering
operations; and control improvements to
waste management operations. Candidates
must also complete four optional units from
four optional groups. Candidates may
complete the additional unit although this is
not a requirement for the award.
The qualification aims to support the move
away from heavy reliance on landfill and
incineration within the UK, towards a culture
of resource management and efficiency
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026575.seo.aspx
This is aimed at providing professionals within
the waste industry with a detailed
understanding of the practical aspects of
advanced treatment processes
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
50016921.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10026587.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
10022247.seo.aspx
http://www.accreditedqualifi
cations.org.uk/qualification/
5001691X.seo.aspx
A number of existing qualifications are being phased out and from August 2010 will no longer
be available due to the transition to the new Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF)
49
4.6 Data on employment and labour market trends and forecasts
Gender
The figure below shows the proportion of employees who are female within each occupational
group in the waste management industry and compares them to the England average.
90
80
Percentage of Workforce
70
60
50
England
EU Skills
40
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
Waste Management
30
Water
20
10
0
Managers &
Senior Officials
Professionals
Associate
Professional &
Technical
Admin &
Secretarial
Skilled Trades
Sales &
Customer
Service
Process, Plant &
Machine
Operatives
Elementary
Occupational Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001.
In general terms, there is a strong gender bias within the waste management industry, with
high concentrations of female workers in administrative and secretarial and sales and
customer service roles. Around 18% of managerial employees are female, compared to
around 34% across the UK economy. Females make up 72% of the workforce within the
administrative and secretarial occupations but only 15% of professionals and 31% of
associate professionals.
Age
The figure below shows the age profile of the workforce currently employed in the electricity
industry in England.
50
Age profile of the workforce in the waste management industry (England)
35
30
Percentage of Workforce
25
England
20
EU Skills
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
15
Gas (Downstream)
Waste Management
Water
10
5
0
16-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
64+
Age Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001 and CORGI Register.
The waste management industry has a considerably older workforce than the UK average
(the dark red column above).
There seems to be two main contributory factors behind the under-representation of young
people in the industry, firstly, the poor image that the industry has among this age group leads
many of them to reject it as an attractive long-term career option, and secondly, from an
employer’s perspective it can be a difficult and costly exercise in gaining adequate insurance
to cover young people working in what can be a dangerous environment, leading them to
seek a more experienced and mature employee.
It should be noted, however, that treating the waste management industry as one
homogeneous industry in terms of age profile can be misleading. For example, in some
specialist recycling and treatment operations, where the workforce is generally skewed
towards associate professional occupations, the average age of the workforce is somewhat
younger.
However, there is evidence which suggests that in some of the higher-level technical and
engineering occupations there is an issue related to the high number of workers who are due
to retire within the next 10-to-15 years, and for whom replacements may be difficult to find in
sufficient numbers.
The future
Forecasts made by Oxford Economics suggest that around 9,000 new workers per year will
be required by the waste management industry between 2008 and 2017 and that 16% of
these will be graduates.
The main source of this demand for new workers is the recycling industry. With landfill
coming to an end, and significant advances being made in alternative waste disposal
methods (e.g. recycling, incineration, energy from waste, etc.), new workers will be needed to
design, operate and maintain these facilities. Although many of the new jobs will not require
graduate-level skills, there will be strong demand for people with science and environmental
skills and knowledge.
51
The occupations where demand for new recruits will be largest include:
• Kerb-side Collector
(Level 2)
Essentially a manual handling role and part of a collection team.
•
Sorter, Picker, Refurbisher
(Level 2)
This is normally a manual occupation and involves the abstraction of selected
materials from mixed waste.
•
Refuse/ Recycling Collection Drivers
(Level 3)
Manages safely and effectively the on-site operation of the refuse collection vehicle
and crew.
•
Environmental Technicians
(Level 4)
This specialist role involves the sampling, testing and analysis of materials on sites
that do or may present a hazard risk.
•
Mechanical/ Instrumentation/ Electrical Engineers
(Level 3)
Responsible for the installation, checking and repair of electrical and electronic
systems
4.7 Skill shortages
The main skill shortages that exist in the waste management industry at the moment are for:
• Logistics managers
• Environmental scientists, technicians and engineers
• Electrical fitters and engineers
• Mechanical engineers
Due to the lack of graduates and other suitably skilled people looking for employment
opportunities in waste management and recycling industry and the significant levels of
research and development activity that the industry is undertaking in terms of identifying new
methods to recycle and dispose of waste materials, as well as recovering value from it (e.g.
heat), it is highly unlikely that these skills shortages will be resolved any time soon.
4.8 Information on opportunities for adults changing career direction
The best way to start a career in the industry is to apply to an employer; these include your local
authority and private waste management companies. An employer may then support you with the
relevant training such as S/NVQ. Entry requirements to jobs in the waste management industry
range from no formal qualifications, through to Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Degrees.
4.9 Information on points of entry or transfer into a sector from another area sector.
This area has been covered in the section above in terms of accessing the sector etc
4.10 Job profiles
Energy & Utility Skills hold the details of the following roles in the careers section of the
website:
Position
Recycling Officer
Recycling Operative
Refuse Operative
Waste Management Operative
Transfer Station Labourer
Energy from Waste Engineer
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=236
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=237
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=238
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=239
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=240
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/energy-from-waste-engineer/
52
Environmental Engineer
Landfill Gas Technician
Energy from Waste Plant Operator
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/environmental-engineer/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/landfill-gas-technician/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/waste-management-jobprofiles/energy-from-waste-plant-operator/
4.11 Case studies
Person
David Beadle
– Managing
Director
Jason Bratt –
Recycling
Operative
Andy Firman –
Managing
Director
Anna Wardell Waste Policy &
Promotions
Manager
Becca Silver –
Refuse
Operative
Employer
Norfolk
Environmental
Waste Services
Newport Waste
savers
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=298
AJF Waste
Management
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=296
Bromsgrove
District Council
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=287
Cardiff City
Council
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=285
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=290
4.12 FAQs
The majority of enquiries that come in to Energy & Utility Skills are processed by our Business
Support function. Each member of the team has a portfolio of information which contains
information designed to answer incoming enquiries. Common questions are listed below:
Q) What Apprenticeships are available in the Waste Sector?
A) There are no Apprenticeship schemes currently available – however Energy & Utility Skills
will be launching the Waste Management Apprenticeship (working title) in September 2010.
For further information please contact Helen White, Apprenticeship Manager on 0845
0777034 or helen.white@euskills.co.uk
Q) Who is Streetsafe Sam?
A) A series of interactive Health and Safety CDs have been designed to raise awareness of the
potential hazards faced whilst working in the waste management industry. The programme
features a character called Streetsafe Sam and is designed to show the dangers encountered
within the industry. The CDs are being produced in partnership with ESA, other stakeholders, and
a Working Group of representatives from waste management companies. Further details on this
excellent initiative can be found at http://www.euskills.co.uk/waste/index.php?pageID=91
Q) What schemes are available in the waste management industry?
Energy & Utility Skills runs the following scheme:
• SHEA (Waste Management)
4.13 Sources of additional information, web-links etc
Further information on Apprenticeships can be obtained from
http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Be-An-Apprentice/Other-Questions.aspx and
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=211
53
A comprehensive list of careers links can be found at
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=214
This list contains other external sources such as Connexions etc and covers all nations
(England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland). Other companies include:
• Chartered Institute of Waste Management (CIWM)
• Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM)
• Environmental Services Association (ESA)
• Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee (LARAC)
• Wastewatch
• Waste Recycling Group (WRG)
• Environment Agency
• Waste Management Industry Training & Advisory Board (WAMITAB)
• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
4.14 Waste Management – Regional Information
4.14.1 Waste Management – East Midlands
In total, some 13,500 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
East Midlands region in approximately 560 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
13,500
560
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the East Midlands
are very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East Midlands’ waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.2 Waste Management – East of England
In total, some 7,000 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
East of England region in approximately 590 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
7,000
590
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the East of England
are very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East of England’s
waste management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a
whole.
4.14.3 Waste Management – London
In total, some 15,500 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
London region in approximately 460 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
15,500
460
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in London are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in London‘s waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
54
4.14.4 Waste Management – North East
In total, some 7,000 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
North East region in a very small number of companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
7,000
210
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the North East are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North East’s waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.5 Waste Management – North West
In total, some 17,500 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
North West region in approximately 750 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
17,500
750
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the North West are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North West‘s waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.6 Waste Management – South East
In total, some 17,500 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
South East region in approximately 650 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
17,500
650
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the South East are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South East‘s waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.7 Waste Management – South West
In total, some 10,000 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
South West region in approximately 490 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
10,000
490
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the South West are
very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South West‘s waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.8 Waste Management – West Midlands
In total, some 12,000 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
West Midlands region in approximately 620 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
12,000
620
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in the West Midlands
are very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
55
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the West Midlands’ waste
management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
4.14.9 Waste Management – Yorkshire and the Humber
In total, some 10,000 people are employed within the waste management industry in the
Yorkshire and Humber region in approximately 620 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
10,000
620
Waste Management
The age and gender profiles of the waste management workforce in Yorkshire and
Humber are very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in Yorkshire and Humber‘s
waste management workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a
whole.
56
5. Water
5.1 A brief description of what the sub-sector covers at UK level
The water industry is made up of the regulated water utility companies, non-regulated
subsidiary water utility companies (e.g. involved in construction, engineering, consultancy,
laboratory services, etc.) and the supply chain (e.g. contractors, manufacturers, suppliers,
etc.). Together they are responsible for the supply of clean water to customers up to and
including the internal stop valve on the customers’ property and the collection and treatment
of waste water (collected through both public sewers and private drains).
Other relevant aspects of the industry include steam and hot water supply and construction of
water projects (e.g. marinas, dams, etc.).
The number of people employed across the sector and in each industry is shown in the table
below:
UK
England
Water
166,500
139,500
Water Companies and Utilities (Regulated)
37,000
28,500
Support Services - Consultants
15,000
12,500
- Contractors
30,000
23,500
- Plant/Equipment
30,000
25,500
Regulators
6,000
4,000
Others
14,000
12,500
Water Utilities Owned
28,000
27,500
(non-Regulated)
Estimated Additional Self-Employed
6,500
5,500
Source: Energy & Utility Skills Labour Market Investigation of the UK Water Industry, 2004
NOTE: The totals of some rows and columns may not add up to 100% due to rounding.
5.2 Information on careers available and new emerging jobs, transferability of skills
career paths and opportunities for progression
Overall, roles in the sector tend to fall into four categories:
• Plant Operative
• Technician/Supervisor
• Higher Technician and Management
• Specialist Professional
As the individual becomes more qualified and experienced there will be plenty of opportunities
to develop their career. Many of the jobs in the water industry are highly skilled and are in
huge demand in a wide range of engineering, science and technology based industries.
There is an increasing need for skilled people to work in UK engineering and technology
businesses in order for the UK to compete successfully in the world economy.
The training and jobs are covered on a leaflet which can found at:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=501
Details of industry progression can be obtained at the following links:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=344
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=501
Over the past 3 years Energy and Utility Skills have been involved in the development in 4 of the
17 new Diplomas, academic learning applied in real industry contexts. Three of these diplomas,
Engineering – Construction and the Built Environment – Environmental and Land Based Studies,
are currently being delivered in schools and colleges across England with many power and utility
companies working with teachers to deliver the qualification. Science is due to be offered from
2011. Currently, Local Authorities have been able to ‘opt in’ to offer the diplomas with national
entitlement coming in 2013.
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=205
57
5.3 Information on pay scales in the sector
Starting salaries for young people and graduates entering the water industry range from
£16,000 to £25,000. Upon completion of training these salaries can increase to between
£26,000 and £40,000, depending upon the occupation.
Average basic salaries (excluding overtime and bonuses) for a selection of occupations found
in the water industry include:
Civil Engineer
£38,000
Mechanical Engineer
£35,000
Salaries can vary between employers and locations within the UK.
5.4 Information on entry requirements, application processes (e.g. Apprenticeships)
Entry requirements to jobs in the water industry range from no formal qualifications through to
Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Degrees. Some companies offer Apprenticeships,
which are a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, gain work
experience and develop transferable skills. Training is usually provided on the job, under the
supervision of experienced staff. Some companies offer Apprenticeships, which are a great
opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, gain work experience and
develop transferable skills.
Details of entry requirements and starting a career in the industry can be found at the
following links:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=341
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=501
A list of potential companies providing Apprenticeships in the industry can be found at the
following link: http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=211
5.5 Qualifications
Title of Qualification
CABWI Level 1
Network Construction
Operations (Water)
Summary of Qualification
This NVQ is designed to provide a route to
qualification for individuals working as assistant
operatives on the water distribution network,
undertaking activities related to mainlaying and
servicelaying. They assist with construction operations
on the water network, which involves contributing to
the location and avoidance of utilities apparatus and
sub-structures, assisting with excavations and
network construction operations, including the
assembly of components, jointing of pipes and
operation of powered equipment. Throughout these
activities, candidates are expected to ensure that they
follow safe working practices and contribute to health,
safety and environment in the workplace, including
hygiene.
58
Link
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50015758
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Distribution Control
This qualification has been designed for those working
in Distribution Control. To achieve the award
candidates must complete four mandatory units which
cover operate safely on the distribution network;
address and resolve customers' utility-related
enquiries; carry out valve operations on the
distribution network; and determine the exact location
of water loss (acoustic listening techniques).
Candidates must also complete three optional units
from a choice of five.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/10024864
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 in
Leakage Detection
The Level 2 NVQ in Leakage Detection is designed to
allow candidates working in water leakage detection
to demonstrate their operational competence in the
workplace. This covers a specific job role, whose
focus is to identify the location of leaks on the water
supply network, so that water companies and their
contractors can work to minimise the amount of water
lost from the supply. For a full NVQ, the candidate
must achieve four mandatory units, which cover
reducing risks to health and safety, assessing the
configuration of a metered area of the water network,
tracing the route of water pipes and locating surface
fittings, and determining the location of water loss.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036142
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Network Construction
Operations: Mainlaying
(Water)
The NVQ is designed for candidates working as
operatives on the water network, who undertake
mainlaying activities. This involves location and
avoidance of underground apparatus, signing and
guarding the work site, excavation, polyethylene pipe
jointing on water mains, installation of products and
assets, and replacement of components on water
mains. Candidates must be able to operate powered
tools and equipment, and must follow safe working
practices throughout their activities, while contributing
to health, safety, environment and hygiene in the
workplace. Candidates may also select from a variety
of optional units, covering both technical and soft
skills, as appropriate to their job role, to complement
the mandatory requirements of the award.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/5001593X
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Network Construction
Operations:
Servicelaying (Water)
The NVQ is designed for candidates working as
operatives on the water network, who undertake
servicelaying activities. This involves location and
avoidance of underground apparatus, signing and
guarding the work site, excavation, installation of
products and assets, and replacement of components
on water services. Candidates must be able to
operate powered tools and equipment, and must
follow safe working practices throughout their
activities, while contributing to health, safety,
environment and hygiene in the workplace.
Candidates may also select from a variety of optional
units, covering both technical and soft skills, as
appropriate to their job role, to complement the
mandatory requirements of the Level 2 NVQ in
Network Construction Operations (Water)
(Servicelaying).
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50015928
.seo.aspx
59
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Operating Process
Plant: Sludge
This NVQ is designed to allow candidates working in
sludge treatment operations to demonstrate their
operational competence in the workplace. The award
has two core mandatory units, covering Health &
Safety in the working environment and developing
productive working relationships. They must
undertake three mandatory units, covering sampling,
testing, and receiving and storing sludge for
processing, and will then select one unit in
maintaining the quality of sludge treatment operations,
according to the size of treatment plant and number
and complexity of treatment processes in which they
are involved. To complete a full award, candidates
must select one further unit, covering either the use of
chemicals and reagents or plant and equipment
maintenance.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50029034
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Operating Process
Plant: Waste Water
This NVQ is designed to allow candidates working in
waste water treatment operations to demonstrate their
operational competence in the workplace. The award
has two core mandatory units, covering Health &
Safety in the working environment and developing
productive working relationships. They must
undertake three mandatory units, covering sampling,
testing, and the plant and equipment maintenance,
and will then select one unit in maintaining the quality
of waste water treatment operations, according to the
size of treatment plant and number and complexity of
treatment processes in which they are involved. To
complete a full award, candidates must select one
further unit, covering either the use of chemicals and
reagents or receiving and storing sludge for
processing.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50028741
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Operating Process
Plant: Water
This NVQ is designed to allow candidates working in
water treatment operations to demonstrate their
operational competence in the workplace. The award
has two core mandatory units, covering Health &
Safety in the working environment and developing
productive working relationships. They must
undertake three mandatory units, covering sampling,
testing, and the use of chemicals and reagents, and
will then select one unit in maintaining the quality of
water treatment operations, according to the size of
treatment plant and number and complexity of
treatment processes in which they are involved. To
complete a full award, candidates must select one
further unit.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50029046
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 2 Utilities
Control Centre
Operations
This qualification has been designed for those working
in Utilities Control Centre Operations. To achieve the
award candidates must complete three mandatory
units which cover co-ordinate communications for
operational activities on utility networks and assets;
contribute to the handling of incidents and resources;
and contribute to an effective and safe working
environment. Candidates must also complete one
optional unit from each of the optional groups.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/10015917
.seo.aspx
60
CABWI Level 2 NVQ in
Utilities Metering
Operations
This qualification is designed for those working in
Utilities Metering Operations. Candidates are required
to complete two mandatory units which cover: ensure
your own actions reduce risks to health and safety:
and solve problems for customers. Candidates must
also complete three optional units from two optional
groups, one of which must be taken from Group B1.
Group B1 contains units which cover: carry out meter
reading activities; remove install and commission
meters; and conduct metering surveys. Group B2
contains rectify minor metering installation defects;
and conduct ancillary operations for metering
purposes.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/Q1053270
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 3 NVQ in
Controlling Process
Operations
The NVQ is designed for candidates who work as
technical supervisory personnel within the water,
waste water or sludge treatment industries. The award
covers the skills required to ensure that the treatment
processes and the performance of related assets and
equipment are monitored and maintained to suitable
standards in a highly regulated industry.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036440
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 3 NVQ in
Leakage Control
This qualification is designed for those working in
operational leakage control activities on the water
supply network. Candidates must complete five
mandatory units which cover reducing risks to health
and safety; determining leakage detection methods
and techniques in response to water loss;
programming, deploying and collecting data from
data-logging equipment; evaluating data to identify
potential leakage; and using and confirming the
performance of measuring equipment on the
distribution network. They must also achieve one
optional unit from a choice of four, subject to the
activities that they cover in their workplace. This could
cover technical activities such as step-testing or
establishing the integrity of a discrete area on the
distribution network, the supervisory skills needed to
provide leadership for their team, or the customer
service skills required to resolve leakage-related
issues with customers.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036270
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 3 NVQ in
Maintain Water Supply
(Network)
Need to contact the Awarding Body (CABWI) directly
for details on this qualification
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/10033828
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 3 NVQ in
Managing & Controlling
Process Operations
The NVQ is designed for candidates who work as
supervisors or managers within the water, waste
water or sludge treatment industries. The award
covers the skills required to ensure that the treatment
processes and the performance of related assets and
equipment are monitored and maintained to suitable
standards in a highly regulated industry. It also covers
the management skills required to provide leadership
for a team, and to allocate and monitor the progress of
the work for which the candidate has responsibility.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036282
.seo.aspx
61
CABWI Level 3 NVQ in
Network Construction
Operations (Water)
The NVQ is designed for candidates who supervise or
manage construction operations on on the water
network (either mainlaying, servicelaying or both).
Mandatory activities for a full award include: carrying
out operational risk assessments and planning for
network construction activities; ensuring that their own
actions reduce risks to Health and Safety and aim to
protect the environment; implementing water network
installation and construction methods and procedures,
and monitoring the installation and construction
process; locating and avoiding underground
apparatus; and monitoring signing, lighting and
guarding and excavation activities in the highway.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50015746
.seo.aspx
CABWI Level 4 NVQ in
Utilities Network
Planning and
Management
This qualification has been designed for those working
in Utilities Network Planning and Management,
seeking to optimise the performance of utilities
networks. To achieve the award candidates must
complete six mandatory units which include develop a
strategy for operating, maintaining and developing the
utility network and assets; evaluate and determine
options for operating, maintaining and developing the
utility network and assets; plan and implement
operational, maintenance and development activities
on the utility network and assets. Candidates must
also complete one unit from each of the two optional
groups.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/1002301X
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Award in Water
Engineering (Sludge
Works) (QCF)*
This specific and specialist Award for the water sector
(Sludge) is unique to water sector
engineers/operatives primarily working for water
sector utility companies and their contractors
nationwide, as well as covering the main job roles and
tasks, this qualification also caters for and covers
matters of water health and safety situations.
Learners have to cover incidents and water related
issues that require rapid determination of factors that
culminate in rapid actions to minimise the risk to life.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50034571
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Award in Water
Engineering (Waste
Water – Simple Works)
(QCF)*
This is a specific and specialist Award for the water
sector and is unique to water sector
engineers/operatives primarily working for water
sector utility companies and their contractors
nationwide, as well as covering the main job roles and
tasks, this qualification also caters for and covers
matters of critical water health and safety situations.
They have to cover incidents and water related issues
that require rapid determination of factors that can
relate to health and safety as well as environmental
factors, culminating in rapid actions to minimise the
risk to life.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50033918
.seo.aspx
62
City & Guilds Level 2
Award in Water
Engineering (Medium
Works) (QCF)*
This specific and specialist Award for the water sector
is unique to water sector engineers/operatives
primarily working for water sector utility companies
and their contractors nationwide, as well as covering
the main job roles and tasks, this qualification also
caters for and covers matters of water health and
safety situations.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/5003442X
.seo.aspx
Learners have to cover incidents and water related
issues that require rapid determination of factors that
culminate in rapid actions to minimise the risk to life.
City & Guilds Level 2
Award in Water
Engineering (Simple
Works) (QCF)*
This very specific and specialist Certificate with for the
water sector is unique to water sector
engineers/operatives primarily working for water
sector utility companies and their contractors
nationwide, as well as covering the main job roles and
tasks, this qualification also caters for and covers
matters of water health and safety situations.
Learners have to cover incidents and water related
issues that require rapid determination of factors that
culminate in rapid actions to minimise the risk to life.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/5003392X
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Sludge
Complex Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036129
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Sludge
Simple Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035447
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Water
Complex Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035484
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Water
Medium Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035460
.seo.aspx
63
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Water
Simple Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035411
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate in Water
Engineering (QCF)*
This qualification will provide assessment and
certification for water industry employees that
underpin the knowledge requirements of the Level 2
NVQs in the water sector and provides a Vocationally
Related Qualification-VRQ for the Water Sector
Apprenticeship framework at this level.
This certificate will qualify water sector employees in
the following pathway (endorsed) routes:
1. Water Networks (Network Construction Operations)
2. Water Networks (Leakage)
3. Water Networks (Distribution Control)
4. Water Supply Operations
5. Waste Water Operations
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50016982
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate in Water
Engineering (Complex
Works) (QCF)*
For Water/Waste Water Operatives: In Complex
Works
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035290
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate in Water
Engineering (Medium
Works) (QCF)*
This very specific and specialist Certificate for the
water sector is unique to water sector
engineers/operatives primarily working for water
sector utility companies and their contractors
nationwide, as well as covering the main job roles and
tasks, this qualification also caters for and covers
matters of critical water health and safety situations.
Learners have to cover incidents and water related
issues that require rapid determination of factors that
can relate to life and death situations, culminating in
rapid actions to minimise the risk to life.
The main purpose and aim of this qualification is to
provide the water sector with a recognised accredited
national qualification for this specific area of the sector
at this level (QCF).
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036257
.seo.aspx
This Qualification Provides a Level 2 Certificate for
Water processing workers in the water sector for
medium works in two pathways:
1. Waste Water
2. Water
City & Guilds Level 2
Certificate in Water
Engineering (Simple
Works) (QCF)*
This very specific and specialist Certificate with
endorsed pathways for the water sector and is unique
to water sector engineers/operatives primarily working
for water sector utility companies and their contractors
nationwide, as well as covering the main job roles and
tasks, these qualifications also cater for and cover
matters of critical water health and safety situations.
They have to cover incidents and water related issues
that require rapid determination of factors that can
relate to life and death situations, culminating in rapid
actions to minimise the risk to life.
64
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50034820
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Diploma for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Sludge
Complex Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50036117
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Diploma for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Waste
Water Complex Works
(QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035381
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Diploma for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Waste
Water Simple Works
(QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035393
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Diploma for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Water
Complex Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50035381
.seo.aspx
City & Guilds Level 2
Diploma for Water
Sector Competent
Operator – Water
Medium Works (QCF)*
The aim and purpose of this qualification is to provide
a competence based qualification that links directly
with the water sector registration passport scheme
that allows all water sector operatives to work legally.
All units are based on current NOS and NVQ units.
This qualification also allows evidence from other
Water QCF awards and certificates to be used as
progression or evidence towards gaining these
competence based QCF qualifications.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/5003540X
.seo.aspx
65
City & Guilds Level 3
Diploma in Water
Engineering (QCF)*
This qualification will provide assessment and
certification for water industry employees that
underpin the knowledge requirements of NVQs in the
water sector and provides a Vocationally Related
Qualification for the Water Sector Apprenticeship
framework.
http://www.accredited
qualifications.org.uk/q
ualification/50016556
.seo.aspx
This diploma will qualify water sector employees in the
following pathway (endorsed) routes:
1. Waste Water Treatment Operations
2. Water Treatment Operations
3. Water Network
4. Sewerage
A number of existing qualifications are being phased out and from August 2010 will no longer
be available due to the transition to the new Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF)
* for details on the QCF please refer to
http://www.euskills.co.uk/water/index.php?pageID=464
5.6 Data on employment and labour market trends and forecasts
Gender
The figure below shows the proportion of employees who are female within each occupational
group in the water industry and compares them to the England average.
90
80
Percentage of Workforce
70
60
50
England
EU Skills
40
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
Waste Management
30
Water
20
10
0
Managers &
Senior Officials
Professionals
Associate
Professional &
Technical
Admin &
Secretarial
Skilled Trades
Sales &
Customer
Service
Process, Plant &
Machine
Operatives
Elementary
Occupational Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001.
In general terms, there is a strong gender bias within the water industry, with high
concentrations of female workers in administrative and secretarial, sales and customer
service roles. Around 21% of managerial employees are female, compared to around
34% across the UK economy. Females make up 70% of the workforce within the
administrative and secretarial occupations but only 18% of professionals and 22% of
associate professionals.
66
Age
The figure below shows the age profile of the workforce currently employed in the electricity
industry in England.
Age profile of the water industry workforce (England)
35
30
Percentage of Workforce
25
England
20
EU Skills
Electricity
Gas (Upstream)
15
Gas (Downstream)
Waste Management
Water
10
5
0
16-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
64+
Age Group
Source: Census of Population, 2001 and CORGI Register.
The water industry employs relatively few 16-24 year-olds and a higher proportion of 35-54
year-olds. The reason for this is likely to be the industry’s relatively high demand for
managers, professionals and associate professionals; most of which required degree-level
qualifications, although vocational routes (e.g. Apprenticeships) are a growing in importance
as a source of new workers.
The future
The asset owning water companies are primarily responsible for operating, maintaining and
constructing the water and wastewater plants and networks. They are supported significantly
in maintenance and construction areas by consultants and contractors. Consequently across
the industry is significant demand for STEM based skills.
The water industry continues to contract-out major elements of its activities and so is
becoming increasingly reliant upon the supply chain. This is being driven by the need to
achieve cost savings for customers.
The industry will remain subject to continued high levels of capital investment in order to meet
the needs of ever more stringent environmental pressures. The industry recognises its
significant role in maintaining a sustainable environment and it will need to develop new and
innovative working practices if it is to operate in a more sustainable and carbon neutral
manner - this will place an even greater demand for STEM skills (science, technology,
engineering and maths), particularly at higher levels.
Investment in the water and sewerage infrastructure will continue to be a major driver of
labour demand in the water industry over the next decade and beyond.
67
Forecasts made by Oxford Economics suggest that around 3,000 new workers per year will
be required by the water industry between 2008 and 2017 and that 31% of these will be
graduates.
The occupations where demand for new recruits will be largest include:
(Level 2)
• Network Construction Operatives 2
Assist with construction activities relating to mainlaying and servicelaying.
•
Network/ Process Technician
(Level 3)
Responsible for the day-to-day operation and optimisation of treatment processes.
•
Mechanical/ Electrical Technicians
(Level 3)
Responsible for installing, maintaining, fault finding and calibrating a wide range of
electrical plant, control systems and instrumentation.
•
Leakage Technician
(Level 3)
Undertakes leakage detection on water mains networks.
•
Incorporated and Chartered Engineers
(Levels 4&5)
Design overall schemes, such as sewer improvement schemes or flood defence
programmes, and associated structures such as pumping stations, pipework and
earthworks.
5.7 Skill shortages
The main skill shortages that exist in the water industry at the moment are for:
• Network Construction Operatives
• Mechanical Technicians
• Electricians
• Leakage Control Technicians
• Design Engineers
• Incorporated and Chartered Engineers
Due to the lack of graduates and other suitably skilled people looking for employment
opportunities in the water it is unlikely that these shortages will be resolved any time soon and
will affect the supply chain (contractors, consultancies, etc) just as much as the water
companies.
These skills shortages are particularly severe at the moment due to (i) the age profile of the
existing workforce means that many workers will retire over the next ten years and (ii) the
workforce requirements of the major mains replacement programmes and continued efforts to
reduce leakage rates.
Also, the water industry is under continued pressure to operate in a more sustainable and
carbon-neutral manner, not least because of evermore stringent environmental regulations.
Therefore, individuals with good STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills
are key to the future of the water industry.
5.8 Information on opportunities for adults changing career direction
The best way in to the water industry is to apply to an employer directly and secure
employment or work experience with them. Many water companies use contractors or
consultants to undertake work on their behalf. Entry requirements range from no formal
qualifications through to Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Degrees.
2
Mains and Service Layers, Network District Inspector, Leakage Inspector, Trunk Mains Inspector
68
The following websites will provide additional information on employers and contractors in the
water industry:
• Water UK – www.water.org.uk
• Society of British Water and Wastewater Industries – www.sbwwi.co.uk
• Additional information can be found on a handout by clicking here:
http://www.euskills.co.uk/download.php?id=501
5.9 Information on points of entry or transfer into a sector from another area sector.
Entry requirements range from no formal qualifications through to Higher National Certificates
(HNCs) and Degrees. Some companies offer Apprenticeships, which are an excellent
opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification and gain work experience at the
same time. Training will normally be supplied by an experienced worker on the job.
The following link provides details on entry requirements to the sector
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=341
5.10 Job profiles
Position
Leakage Operative
Sewerage Operative
Water Network Operative
Water Quality Sampling Officer
Environmental Technician
Mechanical Technician
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=242
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=243
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=244
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/water-job-profiles/waterquality-sampling-officer/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/water-jobprofiles/environmental-technician/
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/water-jobprofiles/mechanical-technician/
5.11 Case studies
Person
Hannah Barratt Apprentice
Neil Legowski Apprentice
Scott Clavering –
Apprentice
Leakage Field
Technician
Jane Youding –
Scientist
Employer
Severn Trent
Link to information
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=292
Scottish Water
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=409
Scottish Water
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/index.php?pageID=286
Wessex Water
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/a-day-in-the-life-of/casestudies/jane-youdan-wessex-water/
Sam Payne –
Trainee
Engineering
Technician
Bristol Water
http://www.euskills.co.uk/careers/a-day-in-the-life-of/casestudies/sam-payne-bristol-water/
5.12 FAQs
The majority of enquiries that come in to Energy & Utility Skills are processed by our Business
Support function. Each member of the team has a portfolio of information which contains
information designed to answer incoming enquiries. Details of the most common enquiries are
listed below:
69
Q) Which schemes are currently running in the water industry?
A) Energy & Utility Skills have a number of schemes available including the following:
• Confined Spaces (Water)
• Leakage Detection & Control
• National Water Hygiene
• Network Construction Operations (Water)
• Plant for Utilities Scheme
• Scottish Water – Distributed Operations Maintenance Strategy
• Utility Excavations
• Utility Network Construction Supervisors
• Utility Safety Health and Environmental Awareness (Water)
Details of all the courses available can be found at
http://www.eusr.co.uk/schemes?status=1465&type=0&industry=1475&submit3.x=17&submit3
.y=5
5.13 Sources of additional information, web-links etc
Energy & Utility Skills have a number of sources that provide additional information:
• Additional information on Apprenticeships can be obtained from
• http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Be-An-Apprentice/Other-Questions.aspx
• Water UK – www.water.org.uk
• Society of British Water and Wastewater Industries – www.sbwwi.co.uk
5.14 Water – Regional Information
5.14.1 Water – East Midlands
In total, some 18,500 people are employed within the water industry in the East Midlands
region in approximately 320 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
18,500
320
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the East Midlands are very similar
to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East Midlands water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.2 Water – East of England
In total, some 13,000 people are employed within the water industry in the East of
England region in approximately 210 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
13,000
210
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the East of England are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the East of England water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.3 Water – London
In total, some 15,000 people are employed within the water industry in the London region
in approximately 120 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
15,000
120
Water
70
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in London are very similar to those
seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the London water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.4 Water – North East
In total, some 9,000 people are employed within the water industry in the North East
region in approximately 70 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
9,000
70
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the North East are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North East water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.5 Water – North West
In total, some 21,000 people are employed within the water industry in the North West
region in approximately 280 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
21,000
280
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the North West are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the North West water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.6 Water – South East
In total, some 16,000 people are employed within the water industry in the South East
region in approximately 270 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
16,000
270
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the South East are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South East water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.7 Water – South West
In total, some 12,000 people are employed within the water industry in the South West
region in approximately 300 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
12,000
300
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the South West are very similar to
those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the South West water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
71
5.14.8 Water – West Midlands
In total, some 21,500 people are employed within the water industry in the West Midlands
region in approximately 210 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
21,500
210
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in the West Midlands are very similar
to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the West Midlands water
workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
5.14.9 Water – Yorkshire and the Humber
In total, some 13,500 people are employed within the water industry in the Yorkshire and
Humber region in approximately 220 companies.
Industry
Employees
Business Units
13,500
220
Water
The age and gender profiles of the water workforce in Yorkshire and Humber are very
similar to those seen across England as a whole.
The occupations, skills shortages and future trends that exist in the Yorkshire and
Humber water workforce are also very similar to those seen across England as a whole.
72