At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to maintain the railway, ensuring safe and smooth operations.
- Company: Network Rail keeps the UK connected, prioritising safety and efficiency for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, comprehensive training, and a clear career path in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing valuable skills in a dynamic outdoor setting.
- Qualifications: No rail experience needed; just bring your teamwork, communication, and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Roles involve varied shifts and outdoor work; driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 41000 £ per year.
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.
If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!
Brief Description
You’ll help keep our nation moving every single day. A critical part of the work we do is the daily upkeep of the rail network. As an operative, you’ll work outdoors in a small team, supporting essential maintenance to keep the railway running safely and smoothly for passengers and freight users.
Our operative community comes from a variety of different backgrounds, and this might be the first time that you’ve even considered a career in rail. We’re focused on your transferable skills and behaviours and if you can demonstrate that, then we will provide you with all the necessary training to have you working safely and competently out on the network.
And if you make the grade then you can look forward to a rewarding and fulfilling career with a company that recently joined the top 50 in Glassdoor's 2021 Best Places to Work.
About The Role
Operatives can specialise in a range of disciplines but for this role you’ll become a specialist in Signalling & Telecoms. You’ll be working with equipment including signals that control when trains can run, level crossings, and points systems. With your willingness to learn, you’ll develop a huge range of technical skills across a range of manual, electrical and digital equipment.
Our operatives work outside in all conditions, at all times of the year, day or night. You’ll be involved in demanding manual work, often with the need to transport kit, across tricky terrain. Being safety focused, respectful of rules and a team player will be critical as you’ll often be working next to moving trains travelling at high speed.
Your Skills Matter
- Team-working: Our maintenance teams depend on each other and you’ll be able to work closely with the team to deliver safe and efficient work delivery.
- Communication: You’ll have good communication skills so you can work safely and effectively.
- Proactive planning: Being punctual, having the van and equipment ready and anticipating the needs of the team are essential to keeping our passengers and freight moving.
- Working under pressure: Working outdoors in all conditions, and with trains passing close by means you’ll need to remain calm under pressure.
- Following rules and instructions: It is important that you understand and respect the rules, but also feel confident to challenge if you see a situation is unsafe.
- Willingness to learn: You’ll consistently develop your skills and competencies relevant to your discipline, keeping up to date with new standards, procedures, and instructions.
It matters that this is the right role for you
Shifts Operative roles involve a changing shift pattern including days, nights, and weekends. Outdoor working - Our operatives work outside in all weathers and so you’ll be comfortable working in different conditions. Safe working - offers of employment are subject to drug and alcohol testing and passing of the relevant medical assessment and BPSS pre-employment checks. This will include a hearing and eyesight examination. Driving - As an operative you’ll also need a driving licence (category B) so you can drive Network Rail vehicles. Commute times – You’ll also need to be within a 60-minute commute of the location that you’re applying for.
How To Apply
Salary: £37,073. Closing date: 24/06/25. Late applications will not be accepted. Click apply now to apply.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Operative, Leeds Holbeck, X2 Roles Available employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative, Leeds Holbeck, X2 Roles Available
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the basics of railway operations and safety protocols. Understanding the environment you'll be working in will not only boost your confidence but also show your commitment to the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience that demonstrates your ability to work as part of a team, especially in challenging conditions. Network Rail values teamwork highly, so sharing relevant examples can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your proactive planning skills. Think of instances where you've anticipated needs or solved problems before they escalated, as this is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency on the railways.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to demonstrate your willingness to learn and adapt. Network Rail offers extensive training, so showing enthusiasm for personal development and a readiness to embrace new challenges will resonate well with recruiters.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative, Leeds Holbeck, X2 Roles Available
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and skills required for the Operative role. Highlight your transferable skills that align with the requirements, such as teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Operative position. Emphasise any previous experience in manual work, teamwork, or roles that required following safety protocols.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you want to work for Network Rail and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for the Operative position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Network Rail values collaboration, so share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in previous roles or projects.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to highlight your understanding of safety protocols. Discuss any past experiences where you prioritised safety and followed rules diligently.
✨Be Ready for Outdoor Work
Since the job involves working outdoors in various weather conditions, express your comfort and willingness to work in such environments. Mention any relevant experiences that showcase your adaptability.
✨Highlight Your Willingness to Learn
Network Rail is keen on developing its employees. Share your enthusiasm for learning new skills and how you’ve approached personal development in the past, especially in technical areas.