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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to build project schedules and support real engineering projects.
- Company: Join Network Rail, a leader in railway improvements.
- Benefits: Earn £27,500, enjoy study support, mentorship, and career growth.
- Why this job: Kick-start your planning career with hands-on experience and professional development.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above, including English and Maths.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for travel and learning.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1167 £ per month.
Overview
Location: Manchester, GB; Hybrid role with minimum three days per week in the office. Other TRU locations (York, Leeds, Huddersfield, Manchester) with occasional travel to additional sites as needed.
Contract Type: Permanent opportunity for new entrants to Network Rail only
Start date: September 2026
About Network Rail
Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is a programme to improve the railway between York and Manchester via Leeds and Huddersfield. This role is within the TRU Planning team and employer is Network Rail.
Key Information
- Salary: £27,500 per annum
- Location: York, Leeds or Manchester
- Office requirement: Hybrid role with in-office presence and occasional travel
- Study support: 20% of working hours for off-the-job learning; Network Rail covers study costs
- Mentorship and career development: Ongoing mentorship and opportunities within Planning
Entry Requirements
- 5 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above to apply, including English and Maths.
- Education Provider: Academy4PM.
- Further course details: Academy4PM - Associate Project Manager (Level 4).
Selection Process
- Video response to questions (motivational and role specific) if selected
- In-person Assessment Centre at final stage
- Assessment Centre Late April 2026 in York (exact date to be confirmed)
What You’ll Do
- Learn how to build and update project schedules using planning tools
- Help plan safe access for engineering works on the railway
- Track progress and deadlines to ensure timeliness
- Support with reports, meeting notes, and planning documents
- Coordinate with colleagues and internal stakeholders
- Work on real projects and learn from experienced planners
The Role and Benefits
- On-the-job experience across planning requirements and governance
- Study support with dedicated time for apprenticeship study
- Mentorship and career development to become a planning professional
- Permanent employment with Network Rail upon completion of apprenticeship
If you’re ready to kick-start your career in Planning, apply now and join us on this journey.
Candidate Profile
- Motivated, eager to learn, and ready to grow into a future project leader
- Time management, problem-solving, attention to detail
- Logical thinking, communication skills, and collaboration
- Willingness to learn and develop professionally (APM qualification)
- Integrity and accountability
We encourage cover letters to explain why you are passionate about joining the TRU team.
Right to work in the UK requires sponsorship considerations where applicable.
How to Apply
We are an inclusive employer and welcome applications. Refer to available accessibility support if needed and contact TRUResourcing@networkrail.co.uk for reasonable adjustments. All offers are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Some roles may require Drugs & Alcohol testing as part of the offer process.
Closing Date
Closing date: 22 February 2026. Late applications may not be accepted. Network Rail reserves the right to close the advert early depending on application volumes.
Project Planning Apprentice x 2 roles in Manchester employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Planning Apprentice x 2 roles in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role and the company! Research Network Rail and the Transpennine Route Upgrade programme. Knowing the ins and outs will help you stand out during interviews and show your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your video responses! Since you'll need to answer motivational and role-specific questions, grab a mate and do some mock interviews. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when it’s your turn.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. Building relationships can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and resources to help you ace the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Planning Apprentice x 2 roles in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let us know why you're excited about joining the TRU team. Share your enthusiasm for project planning and how you see yourself growing in this role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter is specific to the Project Planning Apprentice role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for, like time management and problem-solving.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to understand your motivations and qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps streamline the process. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you understand the Project Planning Apprentice role thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. This will help you tailor your answers to show how your background aligns with what Network Rail is looking for.
✨Prepare for Video Responses
Since there's a video response component, practice answering common motivational and role-specific questions. Record yourself to see how you come across on camera. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Planning
In your cover letter and during the interview, express why you're excited about joining the TRU team. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest in project planning. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the projects you'll be working on. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
