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- Tasks: Join a team maintaining the railway, working outdoors and ensuring safe operations.
- Company: Network Rail keeps the UK moving safely and efficiently, valuing people and connections.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, comprehensive training, and a clear career path.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a rewarding role with a supportive team culture.
- Qualifications: No rail experience needed; just bring your teamwork, communication, and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Shifts include days, nights, and weekends; must be within a 60-minute commute.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
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Join to apply for the Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] – Bletchley role at Network Rail
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
Location
Milton Keynes, GB
Department Name
BO SM(OLE) Bletchley Direct (850811) G1
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
At Network Rail, we\’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you\’re not just part of a team – you\’re 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. Click here to learn more.
We\’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we\’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
If you\’re ready to make a real difference, we\’d love to hear from you!
Brief Description
You\’ll help keep our nation moving every single day.
Acritical part of the work we do is the daily upkeep of the rail network. As an operative you\’ll work outdoors in a small team, supporting essential maintenance to keep the railway running safely and smoothly for passengers and freight users.
Our operative community comes from a variety of different backgrounds, and this might be the first time that you\’ve even considered a career in rail. We\’re focused on your transferrable skills and behaviours and if you can demonstrate that, then we will provide you with all the necessary training to have you working safely and competently out on the network.
And if you make the grade then you can look forward to a rewarding and fulfilling career with a company that recently joined the top 50 in the Glassdoor\’s 2021 Best Places to Work.
Please Note: If successful, there may be a requirement to work on call in this role.
About The Role (External)
Operatives can specialise in a range of disciplines but for this role you\’ll become a specialist in
Overhead lines: Working with high voltage systems you\’ll ensure our railway has the power to run the trains. Working at height is routine, and you\’ll use various types of specialist tools and equipment to measure, adjust, repair, and modify cables and wires that keeps Britain\’s railway running.
Our operatives work outside in all conditions, at all times of the year, day, or night. You\’ll be involved in demanding manual work, often with the need to transport kit, across tricky terrain. Being safety focused, respectful of rules and a team player will be critical as you\’ll often be working next to moving trains travelling at high speed.
You matter to your team
The team depends on you. You\’re the one who shows up first and leaves last, who makes sure the van and equipment are checked and ready for every shift, and who drives the team from site to site. Every day you\’ll support your team in maintaining equipment and will provide lookout duties to keep the whole team safe.
You matter to us
Your commitment to self-development and continuous learning is hugely important in this role and we\’ll provide you with all the training to develop both technical skills and non-technical skills. If you\’re joining us from another industry, the structured training will give you the skills and confidence to move into a rewarding career in rail. Today\’s operatives are tomorrow\’s technicians and team leaders, and we offer a clear career path for you.
Your Skills Matter
Our operatives play a key role in our maintenance teams. You don\’t necessarily need rail experience, but you do need to show how your transferable skills meet the following:
- Team-working Our maintenance teams depend on each other and you\’ll be able to work closely with the team to deliver safe and efficient work delivery.
- Communication You\’ll have good communication skills so you can work safely and effectively.
- Proactive planning Being punctual, having the van and equipment ready and anticipating the needs of the team are essential to keeping our passengers and freight moving.
- Working under pressure Working outdoors in all conditions, and with trains passing close by means you\’ll need to remain calm under pressure.
- Following rules and instructions It is important that you understand and respect the rules, but also feel confident to challenge if you see a situation is unsafe.
- Willingness to learn You\’ll consistently develop your skills and competencies relevant to your discipline, keeping up to date with new standards, procedures, and instructions.
It matters that this is the right role for you
Here\’s some additional information which might help you.
- Shifts Operative roles involve a changing shift pattern including days, nights, and weekends.
- Outdoor working – Our operatives work outside in all weathers and so you\’ll be comfortable working in different conditions.
- Safe working – offers of employment are subject to drug and alcohol testing and passing of the relevant medical assessment and BPSS pre-employment checks. This will include a hearing and eyesight examination.
- Driving – As an operative 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.
How To Apply (External)
Salary: £31,344
Closing date: 28th July 2025. – Late applications will not be accepted.
Click apply now to apply.
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.
Network Rail Benefits – To find out about what benefits we offer, click here
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
- Some of our roles require face to face Drugs & Alcohol testing. Further details will be shared with you as part of your formal offer.****
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
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Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
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Industries
Rail Transportation
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Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] - Bletchley employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] - Bletchley
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the Operative role, especially regarding safety protocols and working with high voltage systems. Understanding these aspects will help you demonstrate your commitment to safety during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your transferable skills, particularly in teamwork and communication. Since this role relies heavily on collaboration and clear communication, be prepared to share examples from your past experiences that showcase these abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Network Rail's values and their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Being able to discuss how your personal values align with theirs can set you apart as a candidate who is not only qualified but also a good cultural fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the physical demands of the job by ensuring you're in good shape and ready for outdoor work in various weather conditions. Mentioning your readiness to handle the physical aspects of the role can show your enthusiasm and suitability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] - Bletchley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required for the Operative role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the tasks mentioned, such as working outdoors and maintaining overhead line equipment.
Showcase Transferable Skills: Even if you lack direct rail experience, focus on transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and proactive planning. Provide specific examples from previous jobs or experiences that demonstrate these skills in action.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the requirements of the job. Emphasise any experience related to manual work, safety protocols, or working under pressure. Make sure to include your driving licence status, as it's a requirement for this role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you want to work for Network Rail and how you can contribute to their mission of keeping the railway safe and efficient.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work well in a team. Network Rail values collaboration, so share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in previous roles or projects.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to highlight your commitment to safety. Discuss any past experiences where you prioritised safety and followed protocols, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Be Ready for Outdoor Work
Since the job involves working outdoors in various weather conditions, express your comfort and willingness to work outside. Mention any relevant experiences that showcase your adaptability to different environments.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
While prior rail experience isn't necessary, be prepared to discuss any technical skills or knowledge related to overhead line equipment. Familiarise yourself with basic concepts and tools used in the industry to show your eagerness to learn.