Disruption Controller
Business Function: Control
Salary: £60,593 (90% during training period)
Role Type: On Site
Location: Manchester
Hours: 42
When the railway runs exactly to plan, most people never think about what happens behind the scenes. But when disruption strikes, it's people in Control who keep the network moving.
As part of our Control team, you'd play a key role in keeping customers and colleagues moving across the North. Based at our Manchester Rail Operating Centre (ROC), you'll make real-time decisions that help deliver the best possible service during disruption, balancing safety, performance and customer experience every step of the way.
No two shifts are the same. One moment you'll be coordinating traincrew resources to recover the timetable. The next you'll be working with colleagues across Northern, Network Rail and other train operating companies to minimise delays and keep services running. It's a fast-paced role where calm thinking, teamwork and good judgement make a genuine difference to thousands of journeys every day.
What you'll be doing
You'll be responsible for managing traincrew resources in real time across our Central and West regions whenever disruption occurs. Working alongside Regional Depot Managers, Train Crew Controllers, Train Crew Supervisors and colleagues in Control, you'll help develop practical solutions that keep services moving safely and efficiently.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Managing traincrew deployment during disruption to support the operational train plan.
- Working collaboratively to develop alternative traincrew plans during major incidents.
- Coordinating with Network Rail and other train operating companies to reduce the impact of disruption.
- Supporting colleagues with arranging alternative transport for traincrew when needed.
- Maintaining accurate records through daily event logs and operational reporting.
- Providing coaching, mentoring and support to colleagues where appropriate.
- Between 11pm and 6am, supporting the Customer Service Controller when required.
About you
Keeping a railway moving during disruption takes clear thinking, confidence and great communication. You'll enjoy solving problems under pressure and making decisions that put safety and customers first.
You'll bring:
- Experience and a good understanding of how the operational railway works, particularly passenger train operations and incident management.
- Knowledge of railway rules, regulations and safety standards.
- A good understanding of railway geography and infrastructure across Northern's network.
- The ability to make sound decisions in a fast-moving operational environment.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills, working effectively with colleagues across different teams.
- A good standard of general education.
If you've worked in an operational railway environment and enjoy finding practical solutions when plans change, you'll feel right at home.
What’s in it for you?
At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:
- Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
- Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
- Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
- Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
- Training and Career Development: Tailored training and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications, plus clear career pathways across the business.
- Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate brilliance every day.
Why Northern?
We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,650 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.
Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.
A place for everyone
The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.
At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.
We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.
No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.
