At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team maintaining vital railway signalling systems and ensuring safe journeys.
- Company: Network Rail, a leader in the UK's rail industry with a focus on safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, pension schemes, and discounts on travel and leisure activities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with clear paths for career progression.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a meaningful role that impacts millions of journeys every day.
- Qualifications: No prior rail experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 36342 - 38482 £ per year.
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Location: Victoria S&T
Salary: Competitive
Closing date: 24 Aug 2026
Sector: Engineering, Operations and Facilities Management
Role: Manual Skilled
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Who We Are
Join the Southern Region - where your work truly matters. Covering Wessex, Sussex, and Kent, the Southern Region is one of the busiest and most dynamic parts of the railway. Our teams keep some of the UK's most vital passenger and freight routes moving every single day. This is a place where collaboration, innovation, and resilience are key - and where your contribution will directly impact millions of journeys.
We are entering an exciting new chapter as we integrate with train operating companies under one national leadership, creating even greater opportunities to shape the future of rail. From supporting major modernisation programmes to improving performance for local communities and enhancing safety across complex operational environments, Southern offers a fast-paced, rewarding environment to grow your career and make a real difference.
Join Us in Keeping the Nation Moving
Location: Victoria S&T
Shift Pattern: Days, Nights & Weekends (Safety-Critical Role) (Average 35 hour week)
Salary: IMC3 £36,342 or Standard Maintenance Contract £38,482
About the role
At the heart of the railway network is a dedicated team who ensure every journey - passenger or freight - is safe, reliable, and efficient. As an Operative, you'll play a vital role in that mission, working hands-on with a close-knit team to maintain and support the infrastructure that keeps the railway running smoothly every day. This role is more than a job - it's a gateway to a meaningful, future-proof career in the rail industry. Whether you're just starting out or transferring skills from another sector, we're here to help you grow and succeed.
What You'll Be Doing
- As an Operative in Signalling & Telecoms, you'll be trained to work with the equipment that controls train movements - signals, level crossings, points systems, and more.
- Your work will directly support railway safety and performance, while you develop skills across manual, electrical, and digital systems.
- Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Working with your team to carry out essential maintenance and repairs
- Preparing vehicles and equipment before each shift
- Driving between work sites and transporting tools and materials
- Performing lookout duties to keep your team safe from oncoming trains
- Working outdoors in all weather, sometimes in physically demanding environments
Your experience and skills
What We're Looking For
We welcome people from all backgrounds - no rail experience needed. What matters is your attitude, willingness to learn, and commitment to working safely as part of a team.
Essential Criteria:
- A qualification or demonstrable knowledge in engineering, electrical, or electronic systems
- Experience working in safety-critical environments
- A full UK driving licence (Category B)
- Flexibility to work shifts (days, nights, weekends)
- Ability to commute to your designated location within 35 minutes
- Ability to pass all pre-employment checks (D&A, medical, BPSS clearance)
The Skills That Matter
- Teamwork: Collaboration is essential for safe, efficient maintenance.
- Communication: Clear, respectful communication keeps everyone safe and informed.
- Proactive Planning: Being prepared ensures smooth, efficient operations.
- Calm Under Pressure: You'll work near high-speed trains - focus is key.
- Rule-Following: Safety procedures must be followed confidently and consistently.
- Willingness to Learn: We’ll support your technical and personal development throughout your career.
Your Growth, Your Future
From day one, you'll receive structured training to build your technical and interpersonal skills. Many Operatives progress into roles such as Technician, Team Leader, and beyond. Your career path is clear, and your potential is limitless.
What to Expect from the Application Process
- Pre-Screening Questions designed to assess suitability. Take your time and answer honestly.
- Online Psychometric Testing: If successful, you'll complete approx. 45 minutes of online assessments. Your results are stored for six months for future applications.
Perks That Pack a Punch
We offer excellent benefits, including:
- Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
- Up to 75% off leisure travel.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
- Carer's leave to support those who matter.
- Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
- We offer generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees.
We're All About Inclusion
We believe diversity drives innovation. Whoever you are, however you identify, wherever you're from - if you've got the skills and the spark, we want you on our team. No suits required. Just bring your authentic self.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're passionate about safety, eager to learn, and ready to be part of a team that keeps the country moving, we'd love to hear from you. This is more than a job - it's a chance to build a career with purpose, pride, and possibility.
About Your Application
As part of the application process, you'll be asked to complete your three-year employment history and upload your CV. You'll also answer a short set of questions, which should take around 5-10 minutes.
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 add a note to your application.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Safety and Compliance
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. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety on your application.
Drugs and Alcohol Standard: All prospective candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.
Operative [Signalling Maintenance] [Fast Track] - Victoria S&T in City of Westminster employer: ENGINEERINGUK
ENGINEERINGUK is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative work culture, allowing you to thrive as a Hybrid Brand Executive while contributing to a meaningful charity brand. With generous employee benefits such as 28 days of holiday, enhanced parental leave, and a robust pension scheme, you'll find ample opportunities for personal and professional growth in this dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Signalling Maintenance] [Fast Track] - Victoria S&T in City of Westminster
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Signalling Maintenance] [Fast Track] - Victoria S&T in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch ENGINEERINGUK's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at ENGINEERINGUK. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at ENGINEERINGUK
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at ENGINEERINGUK.
