Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter.
At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
Scotland's Railway is part of this large family and it covers a large geographical area from the Borders to Thurso at the far tip of the North East of Scotland, accounting for almost 20 per cent of the UK rail network. We provide rapid access along busy commuter routes to our seven cities, servicing the varied needs of our business and leisure commuter services, including cross border services and rural services. Our ambition to be responsive to passengers and freight users drives us every day and we're empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network. We actively challenge unsafe practices and take responsibility for addressing risks, resolving issues and protecting safety and wellbeing.
Brief Description
Get your career on track
With a starting salary of £30k* and no experience needed, a career in the Rail Testing & Lubrication team is one that pays. Whether you’re a school leaver, looking for a career change, or returning to work after some time out, we want to hear from you. No skills or qualifications required, here at Network Rail we’re looking for potential.
So, what’s the catch? Well, life trackside is challenging, it’s physical, you need determination, but the rewards are worth it. Our Rail Testing & Lubrication Operatives work outdoors and around the clock to check for rail defects and maintain the trackside lubrication units that keep Britain moving. Have you got what it takes?
*Internal candidates – please see the ‘how to apply’ section to see the applicable salaries for this role.
As part of the application process, you will be required to complete some pre-screening questions. Please read each question carefully before responding.
About the role (External)
What does a Rail Testing & Lubrication Operative do?
Every single day our rail network carries 18,000 passenger trains and 1,000 freight trains across 10,000 miles of track, resulting in natural wear and tear that our Operatives repair.
Carrying millions of people daily, the track is made up of rails, railway ties (sleepers), fasteners, railway switches, ballast and foundations. These components of the railway track play different roles in providing support for trains. Our RTL Operatives keep all this in tip top condition to keep passengers and freight moving safely and without interruption.
Using a variety of ultrasonic inspection techniques and specialist tools to check for rail defects and maintenance of trackside lubrication units. Inspection and maintenance teams are briefed at the start of each shift on the work to be completed.
As this is an entry level role, RTL Operatives support and learn from the wider RTL team. This can involve fetching, carrying and using maintenance tools. Teamwork is a huge part of the job. All RTL Operatives receive full training and guidance, learning how to use a range of tools and equipment safely. Pending successful learning and development, RTL Operatives can progress to RTL 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:
1. A full clean driving licence
2. A strong safety ethic
3. Willingness and ability to work shift patterns with a mixture of daytime, evening and weekend work
4. The ability to undertake physical manual work outdoors, whatever the weather
5. 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 RTL Operatives with the potential to increase for RTL 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
· 30 days' annual leave
· Extra earning potential: 35-hour week with overtime opportunities (there may be a requirement to work on call)
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.
How to apply (External)
Please click apply to submit your CV and complete the pre-screening questions.
Keeping people safe on the railway is at the heart of everything we do, safe behaviour is therefore a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should demonstrate their personal commitment to safety in their application.
All applicants must complete and pass the pre-screening questions in order to be considered for this vacancy.
Grade – Former IMC Terms and Conditions (IMC25)
Closing date: Tuesday 14th January 2025 - late applications will not be accepted.
We retain the right to close the advert before the listed closing date (based on application volumes) so if you are interested in this vacancy, we encourage you to make your application as early as possible.
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