At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and optimise bus routes and timetables for efficient public transport.
- Company: Join First Bus, a leading UK operator embracing innovative bus technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy health perks, discounted travel, flexible working, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team shaping the future of public transport.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable transport while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in network or transport planning.
About First Bus: Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
Reports to: Network Planning Manager
Location: East & Midlands - Norwich preferred
The First Bus Network CoE is responsible for bus service performance and producing the day‑to‑day operating plan for our fleet across the UK. Data and route performance analysis is key in managing our service profitability and reliability. Our core services include designing bus routes and timetables, creating vehicle and driver duties to ensure operational efficiency and complying with regulatory requirements. Using advanced planning systems, the team also prepares contract and tender bids for First, all with the goal of supporting reliable and customer‑focused delivery.
Position Summary: The Network Planner is responsible for designing and delivering high‑quality, efficient, and customer‑focused bus networks within a defined geographic area. Reporting to the Network Planning Manager, they balance commercial viability, operational feasibility, and passenger needs. The role involves tactical and strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and cross‑functional coordination to ensure the network supports business goals and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Intelligent Network Design: Design and optimise bus routes and timetables using planning software, ensuring alignment with customer demand, operational constraints, and commercial targets.
- Tactical Service Change Support: Support the Network Planning Manager with tactical service change delivery, contributing to short and medium‑term modifications in response to local authority requests, punctuality issues, or business priorities.
- Strategic Network Planning: Support the Network Planning Manager and Head of Network with strategic planning activities, providing local insight and data to inform long‑term network strategies, growth opportunities, and franchising readiness.
- Route Profitability Monitoring: Monitor and report on service profitability and drive profitability improvement at route level to relevant stakeholders in the business.
- Financial Evaluations: Support the Network Planning Manager and Head of Network by providing inputs for forecasting, budgeting, and tender submissions, offering accurate modelling and scenario analysis, including for B2B and supported service contracts as required.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including service registrations, BODS, roadside publicity, and internal governance processes.
- Cross Functional Collaboration: Support cross‑functional delivery, working closely with Commercial, Operations, Engineering, and external stakeholders to align on timelines, checkpoints, and service changes.
- Local Stakeholder Engagement: Actively engage with local stakeholders, including LTAs, community groups, and internal depots, acting as a trusted and responsive partner for the relevant geographic location.
- Participating in Network's Operating Rhythm: Contribute to a structured operating rhythm, feeding into planning cycles, performance reviews, and service delivery governance.
- General Network Planning Support: Support the Network Planning Manager for all other reasonable responsibilities, as required.
Skills & Experience required:
- Analytical and Planning Expertise: Strong analytical and data interpretation skills, with experience in network or transport planning.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in network planning software (e.g. Prospective) is desirable.
- Commercial Awareness: Commercial acumen and understanding of cost/revenue dynamics in public transport.
- Communication and Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Local Knowledge: Geographical knowledge of the areas of operation and responsibility is preferred.
- Regulatory Understanding: Knowledge of regulatory requirements for bus operations (e.g., service registration, BODS).
- EV Operations: Understanding of electric vehicle operations and their impact on network planning is an advantage.
- Public Sector Experience: Experience working with or within local authorities or public transport partnerships is desirable.
- Performance Under Pressure: Ability to work in a high‑pressured environment consistently delivering on objectives within timeframe.
- Teamwork and Delivery: Ability to work in a team and meet agreed legislative and internal process timelines.
Rewards:
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice.
- Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support.
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc.
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays.
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares.
- Enhanced maternity / paternity pay.
- Flexible working.
Equal Opportunities: Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.
Network Planner in Chelmsford employer: First Bus
First Bus is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, offering comprehensive health benefits, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture. Located in the vibrant East & Midlands region, employees enjoy unique perks such as discounted train travel and a free bus pass, all while contributing to sustainable public transport solutions that connect communities. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values innovation and inclusivity, ensuring every journey is efficient and customer-focused.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network Planner in Chelmsford
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like First Bus.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by First Bus. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Network Planner in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at First Bus, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at First Bus and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into First Bus. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Bus
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at First Bus.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to First Bus.
