At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR operations, manage employee records, and assist with recruitment processes.
- Company: Join DFTO, the public sector rail owning group transforming train services in the UK.
- Benefits: Up to £35,000 salary, 25 days annual leave, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a team making a real difference in public transport and employee experience.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualification or willingness to pursue, plus 2+ years in HR or admin roles.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
DFTO is the government’s public sector rail owning group. Its purpose is to bring all currently privately-owned train operators into public ownership in advance of the creation of Great British Railways in 2027 and deliver improvements in the here and now by unifying and integrating train operations under common public ownership. DFTO has over 30,000 employees, runs over 8,500 services a day and delivers over 640 million customer journeys across its networks every year.
The Human Resources Administrator will provide comprehensive administrative support to the HR department, ensuring smooth and efficient HR operations. This role involves managing HR-related documentation, assisting with recruitment administration processes, and maintaining employee records. The ideal candidate will be highly organised, detail-oriented, and have strong communication skills, with a passion for supporting HR functions and self-development.
Key Responsibilities:- Provide day-to-day administrative support to the HR team, including scheduling meetings, preparing documents, and handling general inquiries.
- Maintain and update employee records, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of information.
- Coordinate HR programs and activities, such as onboarding, training sessions, employee recognition, and wellness initiatives.
- Assist in the preparation of HR communications, policies, and other related materials.
- Liaise with business managers to ensure that HR activity takes place, for example, probation reviews and performance management cycle.
- Assist with the recruitment process, including coordinating interviews and communicating with candidates.
- Prepare offer letters, employment contracts, and other documentation for new hires.
- Facilitate the onboarding process, ensuring new hires have a smooth start, including performing compliant right to work checks, arranging induction schedules, and conducting basic orientation.
- Maintain the HR information system (HRIS) and ensure all employee data is up-to-date.
- Handle employee documentation, such as contracts, probationary and performance reviews, and training records.
- Generate HR reports and metrics as needed (e.g., turnover, headcount, employee demographics).
- Assist in managing leave requests and tracking employee absences.
- Assist in drafting, updating, and communicating HR policies and procedures to employees.
- Help ensure compliance with policies and procedures.
- Support the HRBP with audits and compliance-related documentation.
- Maintain accurate and compliant personnel files.
- Coordinate HR-related events, such as training workshops, company events, and employee celebrations as required.
- Support payroll administration by collecting and verifying timesheets, supplying starter, leaver, and change notifications or other pay-related information.
- Assist with employee inquiries via the HR Inbox and redirect them to the appropriate HR team members if needed.
- Note taking in HR People meetings where required.
- Perform other administrative duties as required to support the HR team and office operations.
- Hold a CIPD Qualification or a willingness and ability to complete CIPD to level 3 and/or level 5 under an Apprenticeship.
- 2+ years of experience in an administrative or HR-related role.
- Strong organisational and multitasking skills, with attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritise in a demanding environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with HRIS systems.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle highly sensitive information.
- Duration: Fixed Term contract/secondment until October 2027
- Location: London Waterloo
- Salary: up to £35,000
- Closing date: 12th June 2026
- Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days and rising to an additional day per year of service completed within the first 5 completed years up to a maximum of 5 additional (30 days)
- DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution
- Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry
If you have any questions or reasonable adjustments, please contact jason.blakemore@dftoperator.co.uk.
HR Administrator employer: DfT Operator
The DfT Operator is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the rail sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, generous annual leave, and a robust pension scheme, team members are supported in achieving both personal and professional goals while contributing to the significant transition to Great British Railways. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an attractive opportunity for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Administrator
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at DfT Operator and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at DfT Operator. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at DfT Operator
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at DfT Operator, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that DfT Operator uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at DfT Operator.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at DfT Operator.
