The Engineering Access Planner plays a crucial role in supporting various departments within GB Railfreight by providing vital information and contributing to the decision-making process. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth coordination of railway engineering activities and enabling the business to adapt to potential disruptions. The position will focus on maintaining effective communication, tracking, and recording key engineering access information, and working closely with internal teams and external stakeholders, including Network Rail, to drive continuous improvement across the organisation.
This role is based in our Doncaster office. Previous experience in a similar role or a solid understanding of engineering access planning and disruption management within the rail industry is essential.
Closing date: 6th July Please apply early as we may close this role sooner, if we have a high volume of suitable applicants.
Main Responsibilities
To assist in producing and maintaining disruption advice to stakeholders.
To process the recording and tracking of Network Rail Late Notice possessions as well as communicating this to relevant stakeholders within GBRf.
To process DPPP responses and attend DPPP meetings to communicate the views of GBRf whilst also developing strong relations with Network Rail and other operators.
Support the Engineering Access Manager in in any projects to bring improvements to the business.
To support the New Business and Business Implementation teams with Engineering Access information to allow our business to make informed decisions about new business.
To assist with timetable studies, this will involve responding to and keeping track of TT studies affecting GBRf.
To support the Informed Traveller team, who are responsible for adapting train plans around major railway engineering works.
Skills and Experience
Previous experience or a solid understanding of engineering access planning and disruption management, ideally within the rail industry.
Able to effectively communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, both internally and externally. Proficient at relaying complex information clearly and succinctly.
Strong organisational abilities, with the capability to manage multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously. Able to prioritise tasks and handle changing demands in a fast-paced environment.
A proactive approach to problem-solving, with the ability to think critically and make decisions that balance operational needs with business objectives.
Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams, building relationships with colleagues and external partners to achieve common goals.
Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications and familiar with database management and tracking systems. Experience with railway-specific planning tools and software is advantageous.
An understanding of railway operations, engineering access planning, and the impact of possession and disruption management on rail services.
Personal Profile
You are genuinely passionate about your work and take a proactive approach to problem-solving. You are always looking for ways to innovate and improve processes, seeking out creative solutions to complex challenges in the rail industry.
With a forward-thinking mindset, you can anticipate challenges before they arise and formulate effective strategies. You approach your work with a solution-oriented attitude, focusing on long-term improvements while addressing immediate needs.
You possess excellent communication skills, able to clearly convey complex information to a wide range of stakeholders, both internally and externally. Whether delivering disruption advice, discussing plans with Network Rail, or working with internal teams, you can adapt your communication style to suit your audience.
You work effectively within cross-functional teams, building strong relationships with colleagues and external partners. You are able to collaborate seamlessly across different departments, always striving to achieve collective goals and deliver optimal results for the business.
You have strong organisational skills and a keen eye for detail. Whether tracking Network Rail possessions, assisting with timetable studies, or managing project timelines, you ensure that all information is accurately recorded and communicated. You excel in multi-tasking and managing competing priorities.
The rail industry is dynamic, and you are able to quickly adapt to changes and challenges. You remain calm under pressure, especially during periods of disruption or when dealing with last-minute changes, and can think critically to find the best possible solutions.
You are able to balance operational needs with business objectives, ensuring that decisions are both commercially viable and aligned with the company’s strategic goals. You approach tasks with an understanding of how your work contributes to the wider business.
You understand that smooth engineering operations are essential for customer satisfaction. You consistently keep the customer in mind, ensuring that disruptions are minimised and communicated effectively, while maintaining a focus on service quality and reliability.
With a solid grasp of Microsoft Office and railway-specific planning tools, you are comfortable managing and analysing data to inform decision-making. You utilise software and systems to track information accurately and provide clear reports to stakeholders.
Essential Qualifications
3 GCSE's, grades A to C, or equivalent.
Competent IT skills.
The ability to work both independently and within a team.
The ability to prioritise competing demands and meet deadlines.
The ability to communicate at different levels within the organisation.
Good problem solving skills.
GB Railfreight are proud to be one of the UK's fastest-growing rail freight companies, recognised for our reliability, growth, and commitment to delivering high-quality service. For over 20 years, we've been so much more than just trains — we're a dedicated team, committed to working together to deliver reliable, sustainable freight services and build strong partnerships across industries nationwide.
When you join GBRf, you become part of a team that truly values its people, works collaboratively, and takes pride in what we do — keeping goods moving through smarter, greener, and more efficient freight solutions.
We pride ourselves on being genuinely value-driven. Our core values guide everything we do, shaping our culture and actions:
Our Values
- Professionalism – Safety and security are paramount in our business, and we believe this forms the foundation of a high-achieving safety culture.
- Support – We look after our people, and they in turn are encouraged to look after each other.
- Communication – Transparency in our business is valued by both colleagues and customers.
- Trust and Empowerment – We believe openness and honesty create the best relationships, building trust and confidence.
- Enjoyment – Taking pleasure in coming to work at GBRf is actively encouraged, right from the top.
Key Benefits of Working With Us
As well as a competitive salary, annual leave package of 25 days plus bank holidays and enrolment into our Industry-Wide Defined Contribution Pension Scheme, we offer:
- A generous healthcare package
- An online benefits portal offering hundreds of discounts at nationwide retailers
- An electric vehicle scheme (available after your first 12 months)
- Regular social events, including days out for you and your family
- Training and development opportunities, including internal courses and external certifications through our industry-renowned development programs. We prioritise your growth in line with our people-centric culture.
Inclusion Without Exclusion
At GB Railfreight, we recognise that a more diverse range of people leads to greater innovation. We recruit and develop people best suited to the role requirements, regardless of background.
Our aim is to create a diverse workforce that reflects wider society. We champion diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing in the workplace, in alignment with our values.
If you're as passionate about Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as we are, we invite new employees to join our People and Culture working group and contribute to the ongoing work in this area.
