Operations Standards Specialist (High Speed)

Department Name: CT NR (High Speed) Ltd - Safety, Health & Environment

Location: Ashford, GB

About Network Rail

Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter. At Network Rail, we are dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you are part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway.

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we will do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.

If you are ready to make a real difference, we would love to hear from you!

Brief Description

The role

We are excited to be introducing an Operations Standards Specialist into our Operations team.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead the development of the HS1 Rule Book (level 1 standard) and prepare and provide rules updates to the industry.
• Lead the ongoing development of operational notices and instructions including Signaller briefings, special operating instructions, Sectional Appendices and interface instructions in association with all relevant internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide guidance and expert specialist knowledge regarding rules, regulations and instructions; advise on interpretation and implementation of rules regulations and instructions both internal to Network Rail High Speed as well as working alongside our industry partners.
• Undertake specific analysis across the Network Rail (High Speed) business to develop and deliver improvement projects for operations procedures.
• Lead the System Review Panel (SRP) sub groups, challenging existing practices, rules, regulations and instructions and present the recommendations to SRP.
• Lead the review of all Network Rail (High Speed) operation Standards, both internal to Network Rail and within the Industry.
• Prepare non-compliance applications where necessary.
• Lead on the evaluation and management of all High Speed operational documentation.
• Manage special traffic arrangements within High Speed and at the interfaces.
• Develop and deliver relevant audit protocols and co-ordinate the response of operational audits and findings.
• Co-ordinate and prepare requests for derogations and Temporary Non Compliances against the requirements of Level 1 Standards.

This is a permanent position, so come and be part of a truly unique business that brings the UK closer to Europe.

We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the passengers we serve. Together, we strive to create a safe and accessible railway for everyone.

The Person

Essential

• Proficiency to communicate clearly in writing and orally.
• Working experience in an environment where focus on safety, business and performance improvements.
• Proven ability to engage with key stakeholders at all levels.
• Flexible and willing to undertake a variety of tasks at a range of locations.
• Good level of office IT skills.
• Good interpersonal, influencing communication and organisation skills.
• Knowledge of Investigation techniques.
• Proven relevant experience in railway operational principles and implementation of relevant standards.
• Good knowledge of operating rules, regulation, standards, principles and guidance.

Desirable

• Knowledge of High Speed operations.
• Member of the Institute of Railways Operations.
• Recognised Management qualification - e.g HND Management Studies.
• Recognised Safety qualification - e.g. NEBOSH certificate or Audit qualification.

Responsibilities

• Re-write the NRHS Electrical Mechanical Management Information Systems (EMMIS) Control Room Instructions.
• Support the VCS rectification project and re-writing the instructions.
• Support the NRHS Operations Management team at meetings such as OPSRAM.
• Support the update of standards such as the Sectional Appendix, EZP, ERS & OCS Limit book, etc.
• Brief and mentor staff on the electrical aspects of NRHS where required.
• Lead on a review and response to the unlabelled assets with no documentation/procedures.

How To Apply

The role is based at Ashford IECC however frequent travel to our other office and site locations along the High Speed line is expected.

What can we offer you in return?

• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays).
• Bonus scheme.
• Excellent choice of pension schemes.
• 75% subsidy on rail season tickets (including London underground).
• 75% off leisure rail travel for you and your family.
• ‘my benefits' – our discounted online shopping site.
• Training, development and employee assistance programme available.
• Two weeks paid reserve leave for our armed forces community.
• 5 days paid volunteering leave.

Closing date and application process

The closing date will be 30th January 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Network Rail High Speed retains the right to close the advert early depending on application volume.

All candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test.

All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.