GB Railfreight are looking for a group of highly motivated individuals to join us as Seasonal Operators on a fixed-term contract until 20th December. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain operational experience in the rail industry within a safety-critical environment, providing exposure to a wide range of roles and departments across the business.
What will you be doing?
During the autumn leaf-fall season every year the national network deploys strategic Rail Head Treatment Trains (RHTTs) to maintain safe railhead conditions.
As an RHTT operator you will be responsible for the safe and effective operation of these units while out and about in the region covered. This is a great opportunity for people looking to get a foot in the door within the railway and start a rewarding career.
You will be provided with full training, and will complete your PTS alongside equipment specific training (RHTT). As well as being responsible for carrying out additional tasks such as maintaining locomotive cleaning, sanding and readiness, to ensure the depot is maintained.
Safety conscious; As ever, working on locos and associated RHTT units, safety is always the highest priority, so operators must be steadfast individuals always complying with safety practices.
Comfortable with shift work; These trains run at all hours of the day, seven days a week, and so operators will work a varied shift pattern. An appetite for overtime is also desirable.
Strong work ethic; while carrying out your duties, a strong work ethic is the essential difference between the good operators and the great.
Basic mechanical/technical understanding; as a part of this job, basic fault finding/reporting/rectification will be required. Intuition and the ability to follow prescribed processes will be beneficial. Relevant training will be provided.
Ability to sustain concentration for long periods; trains can run for long periods between stops, and so operators must ensure enduring concentration levels.
Perseverance and flexibility; as any scenario can change at a moment’s notice. The ideal candidates can demonstrate that they have been flexible or persevered to reach an end goal.
Ability to pass industry standard medical; as an operational role in the rail industry, you will be required to pass the industry standard medical.
- Due to the nature of the role, we will be looking for individuals who fit the following criteria:
Essential Criteria
- UK full drivers’ licence (manual), clean
- Successfully complete a pre-employment railway standard medical
- Live within 45 mins of the depot listed
- Must be able to start August/September
About GB Railfreight
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 and annual leave package (aligned to annualised hours), 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.
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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.
