Who We Are
Join the Southern Region - where your work truly matters.
Covering Wessex, Sussex, and Kent, the Southern Region is one of the busiest and most dynamic parts of the railway. Our teams keep some of the UK's most vital passenger and freight routes moving every single day. This is a place where collaboration, innovation, and resilience are key-and where your contribution will directly impact millions of journeys. We are entering an exciting new chapter as we integrate with train operating companies under one national leadership, creating even greater opportunities to shape the future of rail. From supporting major modernisation programmes to improving performance for local communities and enhancing safety across complex operational environments, Southern offers a fast-paced, rewarding environment to grow your career and make a real difference.
Off-Track Operative - Keep Britain Moving, One Mile at a Time!
Location: Hither Green
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: IMC19 - £30386 (already holds NWR Contract or Standard Maintenance Contract - £32639
Hours: Days, Nights, Weekends (Safety Critical)
About The Role
Love working outdoors? Want a role where every day makes a difference? As an Off-Track Operative, you'll be part of the team that keeps the railway safe and efficient‑not just on the tracks, but alongside them. From vegetation management to drainage and structures, you'll make sure the land around the railway is in top condition.
No rail experience? No problem! We're looking for attitude, teamwork, and commitment. We'll give you all the training you need to build a rewarding career in rail.
What You'll Do
- Maintain and manage: Keep the land alongside the tracks safe and clear.
- Repair and restore: Fix issues before they become problems.
- Work outdoors: Rain or shine, day or night‑you'll be out there making a difference.
- Drive and deliver: Check the van, transport kit, and keep the team moving.
- Stay safe: Provide lookout duties and follow safety rules at all times.
What We're Looking For
- Team player with great communication skills.
- Punctual and proactive‑always ready for the next job.
- Calm under pressure and safety-focused.
- Willing to learn and grow.
- Full UK driving licence.
Why You'll Love It Here
- Impact: Your work keeps Britain moving.
- Training: We'll give you the skills to succeed.
- Career Path: Today's operatives are tomorrow's technicians and leaders.
- Team Spirit: Work with people who care about making a difference.
Perks That Pack a Punch
- Generous annual leave (28 days + statutory days).
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
- Up to 75% off leisure travel.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
- Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to Work + more.
- Generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
We're All About Inclusion
We believe diversity drives innovation. Whoever you are, however you identify, wherever you're from - if you've got the skills and the spark, we want you on our team. No suits required. Just bring your authentic self.
Important Info
- Shifts include days, nights, and weekends.
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Safety-critical role: drug/alcohol testing, medical checks, hearing and eyesight tests.
- Must live within 60 minutes of your depot.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Safety and Compliance
Keeping people safe on the railway is at the heart of everything we do. Safe behaviour is therefore a requirement of working for Network Rail. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety on your application.
Drugs and Alcohol Standard
All prospective 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 positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.
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Operative [Off Track] - Hither Green employer: NETWORK RAIL
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