At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team maintaining the rail network, ensuring safe and smooth operations.
- Company: Network Rail, a top employer focused on teamwork and safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive training, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Work outdoors in all weather, with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in keeping the nation moving every day.
- Qualifications: Teamwork, communication skills, and a willingness to learn are essential.
The predicted salary is between 38482 - 38482 £ per year.
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Employer: Network Rail
Location: Stoke On Trent Depot, Stoke-On-Trent, England
Salary: Competitive
Closing date: 11 Aug 2026
Sector: Engineering, Operations and Facilities Management
Role: Manual Skilled
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Who We Are
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.
Please Note: If successful, there may be a requirement to work on call in this role.
About the role
Operatives can specialise in a range of disciplines. 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.
You matter to your team
The team depends on you. You're the one who shows up first and leaves last, who makes sure the van and equipment are checked and ready for every shift, and who drives the team from site to site. Every day you'll support your team in maintaining equipment and will provide lookout duties to keep the whole team safe.
You matter to us
Your commitment to self-development and continuous learning is hugely important in this role and we'll provide you with all the training to develop both technical skills and non-technical skills. If you're joining us from another industry, the structured training will give you the skills and confidence to move into a rewarding career in rail. Today's operatives are tomorrow's technicians and team leaders, and we offer a clear career path for you.
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
Here's some additional information which might help 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.
Salary: £38,482
Closing date: 11th August 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
What does our recruitment process look like?
Once you have applied, our Recruitment Specialist will look at your CV. If your experience matches what we're looking for, you'll be invited to an interview.
For further information, please contact Jamie Lovegrove.
Operative [Signalling Maintenance] 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]
✨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]
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.
