Want a job like Mike from Sewermen? Here’s how in Manchester

United Utilities is searching for an apprentice tanker driver in Greater Manchester to follow in the footsteps of Mike Ball, one of the firm’s stars of its TV documentary Sewermen.

The programme, gives a unique behind the scenes access to United Utilities’ employees to see what it takes to serve 7 million customers every day.

One of the stars of the show is Mike who travels around the north west in his role as a tanker driver.

Mike said: “Being a tanker driver is a dream job for me. I've always had an interest in cars and trucks. From a very young age I had a jeep that I would drive around and set challenges out for, like parking in tight spaces. It’s something that has never worn off and now I like the challenge of parking the truck somewhere tricky.

“The apprenticeship role is ideal for anyone who loves driving like me. United Utilities is a really supportive employer and the training you receive is first-class.”

The successful candidate will be based in Davyhulme and will be part of an essential team of keyworkers who transport sludge to treatment sites and take treated sludge to farmland. They will work towards a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) Driver Level 2 endorsed by the Institute for Apprenticeships.

The water firm, which employs 5,000 people from Carlisle to Crewe, is looking for someone who is customer focused, keen to gain hands on experience, develop practical skills and achieve the standards needed to really succeed in your role. You'll also need to have GCSE in English and Maths or Level 1 equivalent and have a full driving licence.

Apprentices will receive a number of benefits including a competitive starting salary of £12,500, bonus, flexible holiday allowance and career development.

Head of HR & Training Delivery, Louise Higgins added: “Apprenticeships are critical to United Utilities to ensure the company has the right people and skills to run the organisation effectively in the future, with many previous apprentices who have come through the scheme now holding important jobs across the company.

The company has a fantastic retention rate with 98% of apprentices moving into permanent roles across the business upon completion of their apprenticeship.

You can find out more about the role here: www.unitedutilities.com/apprenticeships.

Applications close October 6.