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- Tasks: Join us as an Off Track Operative, maintaining vital railway assets outdoors.
- Company: Network Rail keeps the UK rail network running smoothly and safely for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a starting salary of £31k, flexible shifts, and 30 days' annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the railway while developing practical skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your potential, teamwork spirit, and a full clean driving licence.
- Other info: We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for everyone.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
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About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
Location
Inverkeithing, GB
Department Name
Scotland
About Network Rail
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. Click here to learn more.
We\’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. 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!
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. We have up to 50 freight services operating every day and we are steadily building capacity for this to grow. 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
£31k* starting salary
With a starting salary of £31k* and no experience needed, a career in Off Track at Network Rail 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 Off Track Operatives work outdoors and around the clock to maintain drainage, fencing, vegetation and level crossings to help keep Britain’s trains 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 an Off Track Operative do?
Every single day our rail network carries 18,000 passenger trains and 1,000 freight trains across 10,000 miles of track. Our Off Track Operatives support the maintenance and repair of the lineside assets. The maintenance of these assets is critical to the functioning of the railway by ensuring drainage systems are functioning correctly, signals and track remain clear of vegetation, lineside boundaries are secure and level crossing are in good condition. Our Off Track Operatives keep all of this in tip top condition to keep passengers and freight moving safely and without interruption.
Using a mix of new technology and manual inspection, Network Rail monitors railway assets around the clock. Maintenance teams are briefed at the start of each shift on the maintenance work to be completed.
As this is an entry level role, Off Track Operatives support and learn from the Off Track Technicians. This will involve using discipline specific tools and plant to maintain lineside assets. Teamwork is a huge part of the job. All Off Track Operatives receive full training and guidance, learning how to use a range of hand tools and heavy machinery safely. Pending successful learning and development, Off Track Operatives can progress to Off Track 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:
- A full clean driving licence
- Problem solving skills
- Good communication skills
- Teamwork skills
- A strong safety ethic
- Willingness and ability to work shift patterns with a mixture of daytime, evening and weekend work
- The ability to undertake physical manual work outdoors, whatever the weather
- 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 Off Track Operatives with the potential to increase for Off Track 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)
Don’t meet every requirement?
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.
We\’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from everyone!
Network Rail is a Disability Confident Leader and we’ll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.
You can visit Evenbreak’s Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you’re unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please contact ScotlandResourcing@networkrail.co.uk .
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
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.
Network Rail Benefits – To find out about what benefits we offer, click here
All applicants must complete and pass the pre-screening questions in order to be considered for this vacancy.
Grade – Maintenance Grade Terms and Conditions (Standard Maintenance Contract)
Salary: £31,444
Closing date: Midnight on Monday 21st July 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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Operative [Off Track] employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Off Track]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Network Rail's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to safety and community will help you align your responses during any interviews or discussions, showing that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your teamwork skills. Since the role involves working closely with others, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past experiences, even if they are from school or other jobs.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your problem-solving abilities. Think of situations where you've had to think on your feet or overcome challenges, as this will demonstrate your potential to handle the physical and demanding nature of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the pre-screening questions by reviewing common safety practices and demonstrating your understanding of the importance of safety in a physical work environment. This will show your commitment to maintaining a safe workplace.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Off Track]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Operative [Off Track] position. Understand the responsibilities and requirements, especially the emphasis on teamwork, safety, and physical work outdoors.
Tailor Your CV: When crafting your CV, highlight any relevant skills or experiences that align with the role. Even if you lack direct experience, focus on transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
Complete Pre-Screening Questions Thoughtfully: Pay close attention to the pre-screening questions during the application process. Take your time to answer each question carefully, demonstrating your understanding of the role and your commitment to safety.
Show Your Potential: In your application, emphasise your willingness to learn and grow within the company. Network Rail is looking for candidates with potential, so express your enthusiasm for developing new skills and progressing in your career.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Network Rail values passion and commitment. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and the railway industry during the interview. Share why you want to be part of a team that keeps the railways running smoothly.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
As an Off Track Operative, you'll be working closely with others. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before. This will demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively in a challenging environment.
✨Emphasise Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount at Network Rail. Be ready to talk about your understanding of safety protocols and your personal commitment to maintaining a safe working environment. This could include any relevant experiences or training you've had.
✨Prepare for Shift Work Discussion
Since the role involves varied shift patterns, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to work nights and weekends. Highlight any previous experience you have with shift work or your adaptability to different schedules.
