Outstation Depot Engineering Supervisor
Manchester International Depot
Salary: Circa £62,323.00
Every train that leaves a depot on time, safe and ready for service has a team behind it making that happen. As an Outstations Depot Supervisor at Northern, you'll be the person bringing people, planning and engineering expertise together to keep our fleet moving.
This is a hands-on leadership role where no two shifts are the same. You'll work alongside skilled engineers and technicians, making sure maintenance is carried out safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.
From planning workloads and supporting your team to solving problems when things don't go to plan, you'll play a vital part in delivering reliable services for the millions of people who travel with us each year.
What you'll be doing
You'll lead the day-to-day operation of our Manchester International Depot, creating a safe, organised and productive environment where everyone can do their best work.
That means you'll:
- Plan and prioritise maintenance work to keep trains available for service.
- Lead a small team, providing guidance, support and clear direction throughout each shift.
- Make sure all maintenance, servicing, fault finding and repairs are completed safely and signed off to the required standards.
- Take responsibility for the safety of colleagues, contractors and visitors on site.
- Carry out team briefings, safety tours and regular one-to-one conversations to keep everyone informed and engaged.
- Support the development of apprentices, trainees and new starters through coaching and mentoring.
- Investigate incidents, complete the appropriate documentation and help identify improvements.
- Manage leave, support colleague wellbeing and contribute to performance and attendance processes where needed.
- Carry out the roles of Train Describer and Designated Person when required.
About you
Engineering know-how, leadership and a commitment to safety – that's what you'll bring to the role.
You'll have:
- A Level 3 National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in Engineering or a recognised engineering apprenticeship.
- Experience maintaining rolling stock or working in a similar engineering environment.
- A strong understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering, along with the ability to interpret technical schematics.
- A good understanding of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) requirements and safe working practices.
- The confidence to lead a team, make decisions and communicate clearly with colleagues at every level.
- The ability to organise work, solve problems and remain calm when priorities change.
Leadership experience is welcomed, and experience working with Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) or within railway maintenance would be an advantage. If you have the core engineering skills and are ready to step into a leadership role, we'd love to hear from you.
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: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you're in.
- Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That's why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating 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.
