A team of recruits are embarking on an exciting new career in Sunderland as Northumbrian Water expands its Regional Control Centre (RCC).
Acting as the eyes and ears of the water company, the RCC, which is based in Washington, monitors the networks around the clock to keep the water flowing for customers.
The team, which will include 13 new network controllers, respond to alarms and manage flows to ensure water is delivered where it is needed most.
The expansion marks a major upgrade in how Northumbrian Water manages it’s infrastructure and responds to incidents at any time of day or night.
The new recruits bring a wide range of experience from demanding, high-pressure environments, like the fire service and ambulance - which is helpful when reacting under pressure or when dealing with concerned customers who sometimes call out of hours.
Cheryl Squires, who joined Northumbrian Water as a Network Controller after previous roles in the police service and housing sector, said: “Before joining Northumbrian Water, I worked as a police control room operator, dealing with emergency situations where you have to think quickly and stay calm.
“Having previously worked as a housing officer, I've seen first-hand how distressing property emergencies can be. When customers call us overnight with a burst pipe or leak, they're not just reporting a problem, they're looking for reassurance. Understanding their situation and helping them feel supported is incredibly important.”
Cheryl, who started in the control room at Leat House earlier this year, said she was made to feel welcomed as soon as she stepped through the doors.
She added: “There isn’t a ‘typical’ shift, the weather alone can change everything in minutes. We’re trained to deal with all sorts of conditions and system issues.
“You don’t realise how complex it is until you’re in the role, but what we’re doing ensures people can turn on the tap or flush the toilet, something we all take for granted. It sounds simple, but it really isn’t, there is so much work that goes into having essential services in our homes and that’s what makes the job so rewarding.”
Andrew Lineham, Head of Regional Control Centre at Northumbrian Water, said: “Providing an around the clock control room function is essential to us, keeping those systems and processes working for our customers is of paramount importance.
“We’re very pleased to have 13 new members in the team and believe that their experience is going to really help deliver a quality service.”
In 2025, the control room took an important step forward, expanding its responsibilities beyond water to include wastewater network management.
The team’s skills and experience will help shape the future of how Northumbrian Water protect our networks, support customers and deliver for the environment.
For information on future opportunities with Northumbrian Water, visit: Careers