At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and optimise IT systems, ensuring high performance and security.
- Company: Join Heavy Haul Rail, a pioneering force in UK freight transport.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension scheme, training opportunities, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with room for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of sustainable freight transport.
- Qualifications: Experience with Microsoft technologies and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Together, we move what matters. We are at the start of something powerful. Heavy Haul Rail was created with a simple but transformative belief: the UK deserves a smarter, cleaner, more resilient freight future. And we have the opportunity to build it.
Every role in this business carries purpose. Whether you work in operational delivery, driving trains, engineering, or business support, the work you do contributes directly to reducing emissions, easing road congestion, strengthening supply chains and powering British industry. This is meaningful work, with real impact.
Who we are: Previously operating as Freightliner’s Heavy Haul business, we are now an independent company following CMA CGM Group’s acquisition of Freightliner UK’s Intermodal Logistics business in January 2026. Heavy Haul Rail is the UK’s next-generation rail freight partner built for a sector ready to evolve. We believe it’s time to move differently. Congested roads, rising emissions, fragile supply chains. These aren’t just logistical challenges; they’re environmental and economic wake-up calls. We’re here to lead the modal shift, helping businesses transition from road to rail with confidence, clarity, and measurable impact.
We move 17 million tonnes of freight a year for customers in the industrial, energy and construction markets. The company operates 95 locomotives and over 1000 wagons. Heavy Haul Rail’s team of 950 supports customer deliveries to over 100 locations across the UK, running 250 trains per week. Heavy Haul Rail also supports the renewal and maintenance of the rail infrastructure and supports passenger train operators and rolling stock companies, including the provision of drivers and route conducting services. But none of this happens without us, its people.
What You’ll Do: The IT Systems Technologist role is to implementation, manage, secure, support and optimisation of the organisation’s systems. Covering networks, servers and cloud platforms, ensuring high availability, high performance, and security of IT systems while aligning with IT strategy and business objectives.
- Support and manage a broad range of IT services across the business, including:
- Microsoft 365 and Azure environments
- Windows Server infrastructure
- Network services
- System integrations and interoperability
- Cyber security platforms and toolsets
- Proactively monitor IT systems, identifying and resolving issues before they impact users or business operations.
- Help ensure our IT services remain secure, resilient and highly available.
- Work closely with colleagues across IT and the wider business to deliver effective technology solutions.
- Support the implementation and ongoing management of system, security and governance controls.
- Contribute to the successful delivery of IT projects and service improvement initiatives.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and third-party suppliers to ensure timely resolution of technical issues.
- Evaluate and introduce new technologies that enhance business performance, security and user experience.
- Create and maintain clear, accurate technical documentation and system records.
- Support compliance with relevant IT policies, standards and regulatory requirements.
- Play an active role in continually improving the performance, reliability and security of our IT environment.
What We're Looking For: We're looking for a well-rounded IT professional with strong technical expertise and a passion for delivering reliable, business-focused technology solutions. You'll bring:
- Experience working with Microsoft technologies, including Microsoft 365 and Azure.
- Strong understanding of cloud technologies and modern IT infrastructure.
- Experience supporting and administering security solutions and cyber security best practices.
- Knowledge of system integrations and interoperability between business platforms.
- Broad technical knowledge across infrastructure, systems and support environments.
- A track record of delivering stable, reliable IT services that meet business needs.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.
- The ability to explain technical concepts clearly and confidently to non-technical audiences.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- A methodical approach to problem solving and a strong attention to detail.
- Experience producing and maintaining technical documentation.
- A flexible and adaptable approach, with a willingness to travel when required.
Behavioural Competencies: We're looking for someone who:
- Brings energy, enthusiasm and determination to achieving goals and delivering results.
- Takes initiative and proactively identifies opportunities to improve systems, services and processes.
- Enjoys solving problems and embraces new challenges with a hands-on approach.
- Sets high standards and consistently delivers high-quality work.
- Demonstrates integrity, professionalism and accountability in everything they do.
- Has a passion for technology, innovation and continuous improvement.
- Works collaboratively with colleagues across IT and the wider business.
- Values different perspectives, communicates openly and contributes positively to team success.
- Takes pride in delivering excellent service and making a meaningful contribution to the organisation's success.
This post is subject to standard pre-employment checks including employment references, medical & D&A screening, and successful DBS background checks.
Why Join Us? Here, you’re not one small part of a big machine. You’re a key contributor with national significance and real-world impact. We want our colleagues to feel proud of the work they do, connected to our mission and empowered to shape the future of this business. As part of Heavy Haul Rail, you can expect:
- Purpose that matters. Your work contributes to a cleaner, more efficient freight industry.
- Opportunity to shape what’s next. We’re new, agile and ready to do things differently, your ideas help build our future.
- A team that moves forward together. Collaboration, respect and shared ambition define how we work.
- A commitment to excellence. We deliver with pride, precision and professionalism.
- Room to grow. Your development fuels our momentum.
Our perks and benefits: Our people are our most important asset. We strive to empower our employees, ensuring they are trained and competent, fit for work, always informed, and completely engaged in our culture that places safety and wellbeing firmly at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles. In return we can offer considerable career progression, and a rewarding career in an award-winning team alongside:
- Competitive pay
- Fantastic final-salary pension scheme after an initial qualifying period
- Enhanced maternity & paternity pay
- Opportunities for ongoing training and development.
- Access to the company's life assurance scheme
- A range of benefits to make your own so you can get the most of your work and home life which will also help save you money and hassle.
We know where we’re heading. We know why it matters. Now, it’s time to move, to make it real, together. For queries contact careers@heavyhaulrail.co.uk
Shaping tomorrow. Starting today. The future we want to build won’t happen on its own, we have to move it forward, together. Heavy Haul Rail has the purpose, the ambition and the opportunity to reshape how Britain moves. Whatever our roles, we are collaborators, creators and custodians of a better future. This journey starts with what we choose to do today, tomorrow and every day after that.
Our values are:
- Make Every Mile Matter: We act with intention and responsibility, knowing our work shapes a cleaner, stronger future for the UK.
- Build Boldly: We use our entrepreneurial spirit to challenge legacy thinking and design better ways forward, for our customers, our industry and each other.
- We move as one: We collaborate with trust, respect and shared momentum, because progress is a team sport.
- Deliver with certainty: We stand behind our work. We’re reliable, precise and accountable in everything we do.
- Fuelling The Future: We invest in our people and our potential, championing learning, curiosity and continuous improvement.
System Technologist in Birmingham employer: Heavy Haul Rail Limited
At Heavy Haul Rail, we are not just another employer; we are a community dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the UK's freight industry. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and personal growth, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our mission of creating a cleaner, more efficient future. With competitive pay, a fantastic pension scheme, and ongoing training opportunities, we provide a supportive environment where your career can thrive while you help shape the future of rail freight.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land System Technologist in Birmingham
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what Heavy Haul Rail Limited values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges Heavy Haul Rail Limited might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at Heavy Haul Rail Limited!
✨Direct Apply to Heavy Haul Rail Limited
Let's not forget to apply directly through the Heavy Haul Rail Limited website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace System Technologist in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at Heavy Haul Rail Limited.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Heavy Haul Rail Limited. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heavy Haul Rail Limited
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.