What does an Off Track Operative do?
Every single day our rail network carries 18,000 passenger trains and 1,000 freight trains across 10,000 miles of track. Our Off Track Operatives support the maintenance and repair of the lineside assets. The maintenance of these assets is critical to the functioning of the railway by ensuring drainage systems are functioning correctly, signals and track remain clear of vegetation, lineside boundaries are secure and level crossing are in good condition. Our Off Track Operatives keep all of this in tip top condition to keep passengers and freight moving safely and without interruption.
Using a mix of new technology and manual inspection, Network Rail monitors railway assets around the clock. Maintenance teams are briefed at the start of each shift on the maintenance work to be completed.
As this is an entry level role, Off Track Operatives support and learn from the Off Track Technicians. This will involve using discipline specific tools and plant to maintain lineside assets. Teamwork is a huge part of the job. All Off Track Operatives receive full training and guidance, learning how to use a range of hand tools and heavy machinery safely. Pending successful learning and development, Off Track Operatives can progress to Off Track Technicians.
To reduce disruption to rail services and to increase safety for maintenance teams, this work is often done at night or over weekends. Being able to work a varied shift pattern is important but we’ll provide your roster 4 weeks in advance so you can make plans with family and friends in good time.
What are we looking for?
We’re looking for people with bags of potential who have:
- A full clean driving licence
- Good communication skills
- Willingness and ability to work shift patterns with a mixture of daytime, evening and weekend work
- The ability to undertake physical manual work outdoors, whatever the weather
- Willingness to undertake medical assessment and drug and alcohol testing, as part of our recruitment process and whilst you’re working for us (it’s a safety requirement)
What’s in it for me?
- Competitive starting salary for Off Track Operatives with the potential to increase for Off Track Technicians
- A fresh start - you don’t need to pay for expensive training courses or re-sit any exams, this is an entry level job and full training will be provided
- Development in a range of practical trades and skills to get you to the next career level; many maintenance workers progress to management roles - there’s no stopping you at Network Rail
- Great pension plus the chance to join Network Rail’s leading defined contribution pension scheme after five years’ service
- 75% discount on leisure rail travel for you and your family
- Extra earning potential: 35-hour week with overtime opportunities (there may be a requirement to work on call)
Don’t meet every requirement?
Research suggests that individuals from underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a job if they don't meet all the listed criteria. We are building a diverse and inclusive place to work where people of all backgrounds can thrive. We encourage you to apply for this role.
We’re a Disability Confident organisation and we’ll try our best to adapt to suit individual needs.
Start your career journey with Network Rail and apply now.
