At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team maintaining the railway tracks and ensuring safe train operations.
- Company: Network Rail, dedicated to a greener and better railway experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, overtime pay, discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Work outdoors, flexible shifts, and potential for permanent position.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in keeping the country moving safely and sustainably.
- Qualifications: Technical knowledge and teamwork skills; NVQ level 2 or 3 preferred.
The predicted salary is between 38482 - 38482 £ per year.
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure 24/7, 365 days a year. Our purpose is to connect people and goods with where they need to be and our vision is for a simpler, better, greener railway. Our North West route covers Cheshire to Cumbria, including key cities like Liverpool and Manchester, and destinations such as Blackpool and the Lake District. Major stations include Crewe, Liverpool Lime Street, Preston, and Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria. This busy region sees 1.3 million daily passengers and moves 700,000 tonnes of freight weekly, with 571 stations making up a quarter of Britain's rail network.
In the North West & Central Region, we're proud to be building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We know that inclusive teams make better decisions, drive innovation, and help us create a safer, more accessible railway for everyone. Even if you don't meet every single requirement, we encourage you to apply. If you're passionate about making a difference and believe you have the skills or potential to thrive in this role, we'd love to hear from you. We're committed to creating an open, supportive environment where everyone feels they belong. Your unique perspective and experience could be exactly what we need to keep Britain moving safely and sustainably.
About the role: Play a vital role in keeping the country moving. Maintaining the rail network is a key part of what we do every day. As a railway Technician, you'll work outdoors as part of a close-knit team, carrying out essential maintenance on the tracks to ensure trains run safely and reliably for both passengers and freight. From establishing safety arrangements to checking the quality of work, you'll direct and inspire the success of a team involved in everything from inspection, faulting, vegetation maintenance and fencing installation. The role involves carrying out chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting, and the felling and processing of trees up to 380mm. You will also undertake tree climbing, aerial rescue, vegetation management and the safe use of a chainsaw from a rope and harness. This role is for a 6 month secondment / fixed-term contract, but may have the potential to become permanent.
Please Note: There may be a requirement to work on call in this role if you opt to take the Standard Maintenance Contract.
Salary and benefits: Salary: £38,482 plus additional benefits (overtime, weekend, on-call, night rates). Pro-rata annual leave entitlement (28 days). 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 choice of contributory pension schemes. 2 weeks paid reserve leave for our Armed Forces community. Network Rail adheres to a structured pay framework; any salary offered will be within the pay range advertised.
Closing date: 23rd September 2026. Assessment Centres will take place in October. We reserve the right to close the advert early if there is a high number of applicants. Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision. We will endeavour to offer a diverse interview panel wherever possible. You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.
Your experience and skills: You matter to your team. The team depends on you. You're the one who will check that vehicles, plant, tools, equipment and materials under your control are fit for use and are used, stored and disposed of correctly. You will also maintain, inspect and repair the land alongside the track network to keep the railway safe and efficient. This includes vegetation management, drainage and ancillary structures.
You matter to us: Teamworking - Our maintenance teams rely on your hard work and you will play an important role within the team. Being able to organise and control the safe and efficient delivery of work is vital. Communication - A variety of clear communication skills to deliver instructions to the team and other colleagues are essential so work can be completed safely and effectively. Working under pressure - Working outdoors in all conditions, and with trains passing close by means you'll need to remain calm under pressure. Technical skills - you must have technical knowledge of the discipline you are applying for and know about construction management processes. Systems and standards would be advantageous, as well as previously achieved (or be working towards) an NVQ level 2 or 3 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject or gained through equivalent relevant experience, will help you excel in the role.
It matters that this is the right role for you. Here's some additional information which might help you:
- Shifts - Technician roles involve a changing shift pattern including days, nights and weekends.
- Outdoor working - Our technicians work outside in all weathers and so you'll be comfortable working in different conditions.
- Driving - As a technician 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.
Key Information: Number of Positions: 1. Contract Type: Fixed-Term. Hours: Full Time. Location: Guide Bridge Off Track Depot, Manchester. Geographical Area: North West England. Closing Date: 23-SEP-2026. Job Category: Site based Maintenance. Function: North West & Central Region. Organisation: BF SM(OT) Manchester North Direct (854216).
Technician [Off Track] in Manchester employer: NETWORK RAIL
Network Rail is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to vital infrastructure projects in the UK. The supportive culture and commitment to maintaining accurate data ensure that your role as a Data & SharePoint Support Specialist is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technician [Off Track] in Manchester
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Local Events
Look for local trade fairs or skilled trades expos in your area. These gatherings are perfect for networking and meeting potential employers like NETWORK RAIL who might be looking for temporary workers. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase your skills directly!
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Joining local trade associations can be a game changer. Not only do they often have job boards, but they also run events where employers are seeking temporary talent in the skilled trades field. It’s a chance to meet people who know about upcoming vacancies personally!
✨Leverage Online Job Boards Specific to Your Trade
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✨Apply Quickly and Show Up in Person
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We think you need these skills to ace Technician [Off Track] in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:In the skilled trades, it’s all about showcasing your hands-on abilities. Make sure your CV highlights specific trade skills you’ve mastered, along with any relevant certifications or training programmes you've completed. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Since this is a temporary role, we want you to focus on your most relevant experience. Tailor your CV to emphasise the projects or roles that align with the specific skills needed for the position at NETWORK RAIL. Less fluff, more actionable details!
Mention Your Availability:In your cover letter, let us know your availability and willingness to start right away. Since this is a temporary position, we want to hear how you can jump in and make an impact quickly. Be clear about when you can start and how flexible you can be.
Share Your Work Portfolio:If you've got a portfolio or evidence of past projects, include it! We love to see the tangible results of your skilled work. Whether it's photos or detailed descriptions of your previous jobs, sharing this with us can really set you apart from the competition.
How to prepare for a job interview at NETWORK RAIL
✨Show Off Your Skills
Since you’re diving into a temporary position in skilled trades, make sure to highlight your relevant hands-on experience. Bring along a portfolio of your past projects or photos showing your skillset in action. This isn’t just about what you say; it’s about showing what you can do as well!
✨Prepare for Practical Assessments
Get ready for some on-the-job assessment during the interview. Be prepared to demonstrate your technical skills, whether it’s through a practical test or skills assessment. Brush up on common tools and techniques specific to your trade, so you can showcase your competence confidently.
✨Flexibility is Key
Since this is a temporary role, companies often look for candidates who can hit the ground running. Be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different projects or working conditions. Emphasize your eagerness to learn quickly and make a positive impact right away.
✨Communicate Your Team Spirit
In skilled trades, being part of a team is often crucial. Make sure to talk about your past experiences working collaboratively with colleagues. Whether it's sharing a tool or problem-solving on site, show that you understand the importance of teamwork in getting the job done efficiently at NETWORK RAIL.
