Train Running Controller

Train Running Controller

Crawley Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage train services and ensure smooth operations during normal and disruptive events.
  • Company: Network Rail connects people and goods safely, prioritizing diversity and employee well-being.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 28 days of annual leave, flexible work options, and discounts on travel and shopping.
  • Why this job: Join a team that values your growth and offers training in a dynamic, tech-driven environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in operational roles and knowledge of train procedures are essential.
  • Other info: We support diversity and inclusion, ensuring everyone has equal opportunities.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

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Sector: Transport and Logistics
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time

About Network Rail
Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. Watch our video to find out more!
We’re continuing to build a diverse organisation which is representative of the people we serve. We want to harness the skills and expertise of our people and attract the best talent, to enable a safe and accessible railway for everyone. To learn why inclusion is important to us, please click here .

About our people and the recruitment process
We’re an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone! We encourage our colleagues to work flexibly, as we know traditional working patterns don’t always fit. If you want to consider working flexibly, just let us know and we’ll do our best to help and invest in your career with us, whilst you have a healthy work-life balance. We’re also a Disability Confident Leader employer 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.

Brief Description
Manage train services on the network to meet the agreed train plan both during normal operation and disruptive events. Deliver Network Rail targets and Train Operator franchise, PPM and other customer targets. Lead and manage the performance of the daily train plan and take early action to minimise customer disruption ensuring that rolling stock and train crew resources are effectively managed. Communicate effectively regarding train performance and train regulation, within control, with signallers and relevant Train Operators. Define and implement service recovery arrangements.

About the role (External)
As part of the route control team, you’ll manage train services throughout the region, ensuring that trains run as close to real time as possible without compromising safety and according to the agreed train plan. If a situation arises you’ll be responsible for liaising and negotiating with train operating companies to regulate services, whilst trying to keep delays to a minimum, as well as communicating with other key Network Rail staff to ensure the service recovers as quickly as possible.

Key Accountabilities

  1. Work during both normal train running and disruptive events, to deliver the optimum service that meets the differing needs of the rail industry and passengers.
  2. Manage the safe and efficient running of trains over the Route infrastructure.
  3. Make pro-active train regulating decisions using control systems and interpreting incoming information to identify potential disruption and initiate early action to minimise train delays, communicating with signallers and train operators as necessary.
  4. Work closely with the Incident Controller to manage train service delivery during times of perturbation, being the key liaison with representatives of train operators whose services run in the route and other control centres.
  5. Develop and specify during times of disruption, service recovery plans, including discussion with train operator staff regarding resourcing of the plan.
  6. Maintain a daily log of all train running information and events, using the available systems in accordance with the relevant company standards and instructions.
  7. Undertake planning of VSTP train movements to a time horizon of 48 hours and compile a library of regularly used timetable slots to deliver consistency.
  8. Identify regular and frequent requests for short-term movements to the Train Planning Manager to be introduced into the permanent timetable.

Job Skills, Experience and Qualifications

Essential
Knowledge and demonstrable experience of operating procedures, rules and regulations. Operational experience within a control environment or operations role. Understanding of the Route timetable. Knowledge of Train Operating Companies organisational structure and routes. Good geographical knowledge of applicable Route. Demonstrable skill in the use of Microsoft Office package and Control specific software e.g. CCF, TMIS, TRUST, TRUST DA, TOPS, SHEILA, GENIUS, Crews in Genius, P2v2, Nexus Alpha and Alpha Page or other communications/pager system. Good team working skills and ability to make objective decisions. Able to influence others and work under pressure. General understanding of commercial/business picture within Network Rail and TOC’s. Knowledge of Train Service Recovery Plans.

Desirable
Working knowledge of the NRN system and its correct use. Geographical knowledge of adjoining Routes.

Company

Every day, 4.8 million people use our network. Keeping Britain moving and building a better railway for the future is full of challenges – but also tremendous opportunities. From our commitments to your development, our range of benefits and our approach to Diversity & Inclusion, we believe there are many reasons to join the team at Network Rail.

We’re proactive in empowering employees with the knowledge to help them progress. We encourage all our employees to be ambitious, and offer great training and career development opportunities. As the railway becomes bigger and more technologically advanced, it’s crucial that our employees have the right skills to develop their careers and meet the challenges ahead.

We believe that investing in our people is one of the most effective ways of improving the safety, reliability and efficiency of the railway. We also know that it’s vital to get each individual’s training programme just right. As well as helping us to meet our immediate needs, we believe this is an approach that encourages people to stay with us and develop their careers.

Your health, wellbeing and benefits

We believe that safety and performance go hand in hand and this doesn’t just mean safety on the railway! We are committed to the wellbeing of our employees and believe that should come first.

We provide access to support services such as our employee assistance program to help you with finances, family, health and wellbeing. In addition to this, we offer excellent benefits, are sensitive to work-life balance and encourage our employees to use their 5 volunteer days for their favourite causes.

We have a range of benefits including:

  • 28 days annual leave entitlement.
  • My benefits – Our discounted online shopping site.
  • A range of discounted offers including, childcare vouchers, Healthcare offers – cycle to work, healthcare club discounted membership and other benefits.
  • Subsidies of up to 75% on rail and underground season tickets.
  • A range of pension schemes.
  • 2 weeks paid reserve leave for our Armed Forces community.

What Diversity and Inclusion means to us

‘Diversity’ means recognising differences between people while valuing the contribution they make. ‘Inclusion’ means creating safe and welcoming workplaces with fair cultures that encourage innovative and fresh ways of thinking.

Our aspiration is that the behaviours and actions that support diversity and inclusion will come from the conviction of everyone here at Network Rail – making diversity and inclusion a conscious part of how we run our business throughout Britain.

Disability Confident Leader

Network Rail is an accredited Disability Confident Leader. This means, where a disabled applicant meets the essential criteria for any of our vacancies, they will receive an interview.

Find out more about our recruitment process here .

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Train Running Controller employer: ENGINEERINGUK

At Network Rail, we prioritize our employees' growth and well-being, offering a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. As a Train Running Controller, you'll benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a range of excellent benefits, including generous annual leave and substantial subsidies on travel. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the railway industry while enjoying a fulfilling career in a dynamic environment.
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Contact Detail:

ENGINEERINGUK Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Train Running Controller

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarize yourself with the operational procedures and regulations specific to train running. Understanding these will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to safety and efficiency in train operations.

✨Tip Number 2

Network Rail values effective communication, especially during disruptions. Practice articulating how you would manage communication between train operators and signallers in a high-pressure situation to showcase your problem-solving skills.

✨Tip Number 3

Gain a good geographical knowledge of the routes you will be managing. This will not only help you in your role but also impress the interviewers with your proactive approach to understanding the network.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight any experience you have with control systems and software relevant to train operations. Being able to discuss your proficiency with tools like CCF or TRUST can set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Train Running Controller

Operational Procedures Knowledge
Control Environment Experience
Route Timetable Understanding
Train Operating Companies Structure Knowledge
Geographical Knowledge of Route
Microsoft Office Proficiency
Control Software Proficiency (e.g., CCF, TMIS, TRUST)
Teamwork Skills
Decision-Making Under Pressure
Influencing Skills
Commercial Awareness within Network Rail and TOCs
Train Service Recovery Plans Knowledge
Proactive Problem-Solving
Effective Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Train Running Controller. Familiarize yourself with the key accountabilities and skills mentioned in the job description.

Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasize your operational experience, knowledge of train operating procedures, and any specific software you are proficient in.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the transport sector. Mention how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for Network Rail and how you can contribute to their goals.

Highlight Teamwork and Decision-Making Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully worked in teams and made objective decisions under pressure. This is crucial for the role, as it involves managing train services and liaising with various stakeholders.

How to prepare for a job interview at ENGINEERINGUK

✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Train Running Controller's responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with train service management, communication with signallers, and how to handle disruptions effectively.

✨Showcase Your Operational Experience

Highlight any previous experience in a control environment or operations role. Be prepared to discuss specific situations where you successfully managed train services or resolved disruptions.

✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Decision-Making Skills

Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively with others, especially during high-pressure situations. Provide examples of how you've influenced team decisions or contributed to service recovery plans.

✨Familiarize Yourself with Relevant Software

Be ready to discuss your proficiency with control-specific software like CCF, TMIS, or TRUST. If possible, mention any relevant training or certifications that demonstrate your technical skills.

Train Running Controller
ENGINEERINGUK
E
  • Train Running Controller

    Crawley
    Full-Time
    36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-03-20

  • E

    ENGINEERINGUK

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