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- Tasks: Join a team maintaining the railway, working outdoors and ensuring safe operations.
- Company: Network Rail keeps the UK connected, prioritising safety and efficiency for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, comprehensive training, and a clear career path.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing skills in a supportive, diverse environment.
- Qualifications: No rail experience needed; just bring teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Shifts include days, nights, and weekends; driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
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Join to apply for the Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] – Cheshunt OHL Depot role at Network Rail
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About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
Location
Hertford, GB
Department Name
DH SM(OLE) Cheshunt Direct (822811) 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: £31,444 spot rate
Closing date: 6th August 2025 . – Late applications will not be accepted.
Click apply now to apply.
What does our recruitment process look like?
- Once you have applied, our Recruitment Specialist will look at your CV.
- If your experience matches what we\’re looking for, you\’ll be invited to an interview
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status. Click here for more information
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
Job function
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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] - Cheshunt OHL Depot employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] - Cheshunt OHL Depot
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of working with overhead line equipment. Understanding the basics of high voltage systems and safety protocols will show your commitment to the role and help you stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in manual labour or outdoor work, as this role involves demanding physical tasks. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in teams and managed challenging conditions.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your proactive planning skills by discussing how you prepare for shifts and ensure that equipment is ready. This will show that you understand the importance of being organised and reliable in a team environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Express your willingness to learn and adapt. Network Rail values continuous development, so be prepared to share examples of how you've embraced new skills or training in past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Overhead Line Equipment] - Cheshunt OHL Depot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Transferable Skills: When writing your application, focus on showcasing your transferable skills that align with the role. Emphasise teamwork, communication, and your ability to work under pressure, as these are crucial for the Operative position.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Operative role at Network Rail. Include relevant experiences, even if they are from different industries, and demonstrate how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you want to work for Network Rail and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your willingness to learn and adapt, which is important for this entry-level position.
Follow Application Instructions: Carefully read and follow all application instructions provided by Network Rail. Ensure that you submit all required documents and meet the deadline to avoid any issues with your application.
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 be ready to 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 understanding of safety protocols. Be prepared to discuss any relevant experiences where you prioritised safety and followed rules, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and consider how you can convey complex information simply, as you may need to do this on the job.
✨Express Willingness to Learn
Network Rail is keen on continuous development. Share your enthusiasm for learning new skills and adapting to new challenges, especially if you're coming from a different industry. Highlight any past experiences where you embraced training or skill development.