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- Tasks: Craft train timetables and solve complex problems to enhance rail efficiency.
- Company: Join Network Rail, where your work impacts millions of passengers and freight.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, discounts, and a defined benefit pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the railway industry while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and effective communication abilities are essential.
- Other info: Extensive training provided with opportunities for professional accreditation.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 £ per year.
Job Title: Operational Planner (Timetable Planner)
Company: Network Rail
Location: Milton Keynes, GB
Department: HR Employee Experience (348120) G5
Job Type: Full‑time, Permanent, Office‑based at The Quadrant: MK (must live within 75 minutes)
Band & Salary: Band 5, Fixed starting salary £27,650 with a £2,500 increase upon achieving Level 2 competency
Duration: Permanent
Overview
As a Timetable Planner you will shape the timetable that keeps Britain moving, analysing complex information, solving operational challenges, and ensuring passengers and freight customers receive reliable service.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse large sets of timetable data daily to assess service feasibility and balance safety, maintenance, and performance constraints.
- Balance critical factors to optimise capacity and meet reliability targets.
- Work closely with customers, explaining options, negotiating schedules, and shaping network operations.
- Complete a 6‑month probationary period, achieving Level 1 competency and demonstrating Network Rail behaviours.
- Engage with stakeholders and contribute to industry improvements across Operational Planning.
Essential Criteria
- Good analytical skills.
- Ability to quickly learn sophisticated train planning software.
- Flair for negotiation and persuasion.
- Strong communication skills.
- Customer engagement and relationship building with stakeholders.
- Experience delivering on agreed timelines and standards.
Training & Development
First 14–18 weeks: in‑depth training program covering classroom and on‑the‑job learning. Attain Level 1 competency and then progress to Level 2 professional accreditation with the Chartered Institute of Railway Operators.
Application Process
- Online Technical Assessment
- Online Video Interview
- Face‑to‑Face Competency‑Based Interview
- Offer
- Planned start date: W/C 13 th April 2026
Closing date: 5 th January 2026 (advert may close early).
Benefits
- Flexible/hybrid working after Level 2 competency.
- Generous annual leave (28 days + statutory), option to buy/sell days.
- Station discounts with Network Rail pass.
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75 % subsidy on train tickets.
- Interest‑free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
- Volunteer leave.
Working Conditions & Inclusion
Network Rail values a diverse, inclusive workplace and is a Disability Confident Leader, offering accommodation throughout the recruitment process. Applicants may obtain accessibility support from Evenbreaks Career Hive.
Safe behaviour is required; applicants must demonstrate awareness of the Safety Vision.
Network Rail is not sponsoring under Skilled Worker route; visa sponsorship not available.
Application Assistance
For support with applications, contact details are provided by the advert.
All offers are subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks.
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Operational Planner employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Network Rail and understand their values, especially around safety and customer service. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the online technical assessment by brushing up on your analytical skills and familiarising yourself with train planning software. We recommend using mock tests or online resources to get comfortable with the format.
✨Tip Number 3
Nail that video interview! Make sure you’re in a quiet space, dress professionally, and have a few examples ready that showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to work in a team. Remember, it’s all about showing how you can contribute to the railway's efficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for the role. And don’t forget, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Operational Planner position!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Operational Planner role. Highlight your analytical skills and any experience with train planning software, as these are key to impressing us!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex problems in the past. We love seeing how you approach challenges, especially if it relates to balancing customer needs and operational efficiency.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your communication skills shine through, so make every word count!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We recommend applying as soon as possible since we might close the advert early based on the number of applications. Head over to our website to get started!
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Know Your Timetable Basics
Before the interview, brush up on the fundamentals of train timetabling and the factors that influence it. Familiarise yourself with the key concepts and terminology used in the industry, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've used analytical skills to solve complex problems. Think about times when you had to balance multiple factors or make decisions under pressure, as these experiences will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Practice Your Negotiation Techniques
Since the role involves negotiating schedules with customers, practice articulating your negotiation strategies. Be ready to explain how you would approach a situation where a customer has conflicting needs, demonstrating your ability to find win-win solutions.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in building collaborative relationships with stakeholders. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated with different parties in previous roles, as this will be crucial for success in the Operational Planner position.