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- Tasks: Maintain and fix signalling assets to ensure safe rail operations.
- Company: Network Rail connects people and goods across the UK, prioritising safety and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, diverse work culture, and flexible shift patterns.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital team that keeps the railway running smoothly and safely.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a willingness to learn and a driving licence.
- Other info: Work in all weather conditions and be prepared for varied shifts.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 41000 £ per year.
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About Network Rail
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure. Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. When you\’re part of our team, you matter to us and you matter to millions.
Location
Birmingham, GB
Department Name
Saltley Maintenance Depot
About Network Rail
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure. Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. When you\’re part of our team, you matter to us and you matter to millions.
We\’re continuing to build a more diverse and inclusive organisation which is representative of the passengers we serve. To do this, it\’s essential we become a more open, diverse and inclusive organisation, harnessing the skills and expertise of all our people and attracting the best talent to help us have a safe, accessible railway for everyone. We’re an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone!
Brief Description
About our route
We are Central route. We are the Heart of Britain’s Railway. More than a million people rely on us every week, and we help transport nearly a million tonnes of freight every month. But we are more than just tracks and trains, we are a catalyst for jobs and opportunities, a connection to leisure and time with family and friends, and a foundation for communities and neighbourhoods.
We are a key part of the national network, with Birmingham New Street – the busiest station outside of London and the hub of the railway – connecting England, Scotland and Wales, with hundreds of services arriving and leaving every day.
About The Role (External)
What does a Signalling Operative do?
Our rail network carries thousands of passenger trains and freight trains across our miles of track each day.
Our Rail Signalling Operatives keep Britain’s signals (the traffic lights of the track) in tip top condition to keep passengers and freight moving safely and without interruption. No single day is the same, from unexpected weather events to third party damage, you’d be responsible for maintaining and fixing all signalling assets. You’d be looking after a range of assets, including level crossings, switches, track circuits, line side location cases and signals.
To reduce disruption to rail services and to increase safety for maintenance teams, this work is often done at night or over weekends. Being able to work a varied shift pattern is important but we’ll provide your roster in advance so you can make plans with family and friends in good time. You will also need to be prepared to work in all weather conditions, at all times of the year.
Key responsibilities:
- Maintain rail signals
- Identify, diagnose and fix faults such as replacing electrical components in physical signals trackside
- Respond to calls and undertake planned work
- Work as part of a team
- Physically search for faults along the track
- Liaise with different teams, such as Fault Control, to keep passengers safe
- Check signal monitoring systems online
- Measure tracks to ensure correct distance and height
- Use special equipment to check for defects
- Report obstacles, accidents, and issues
Please note you but will be required to live in a 60 minute radius from the location stated on this advert. It is also mandatory for you to hold a category B driving licence.
In order to be successful in this role, we would like you to have/ be…
- Able to work as part of team.
- Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Hold and retain competencies relevant to this post, required by the business need.
- Ideally hold (or be working towards) an NVQ 1 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.
- Able and willing to drive vehicles as required by business need.
How To Apply (External)
Salary: Standard Maintenance Contract: £37,073.00
Closing date: 18th August 2025 – Late applications will not be accepted.
Want to find out more about what fantastic benefits we offer? Click here
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of a range of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information .
We\’re a Disability Confident Leader employer and we’ll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.
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
Management and Manufacturing
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Industries
Rail Transportation
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Operative [Signalling Maintenance] employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Signalling Maintenance]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the signalling systems used by Network Rail. Understanding how these systems work will not only help you in the role but also show your genuine interest during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network Rail values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Think of specific examples where you contributed to a team's success or overcame challenges together.
✨Tip Number 3
Since the role requires working in various weather conditions and at different times, highlight any previous experience you have in similar environments. This will demonstrate your adaptability and commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to research Network Rail's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Being able to articulate how you align with these values can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Signalling Maintenance]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand what a Signalling Operative does. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and skills required, such as maintaining rail signals and diagnosing faults.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any previous work in maintenance or engineering roles, and include any qualifications like NVQ 1 if applicable.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the railway industry. Mention why you want to work for Network Rail and how your values align with their commitment to safety and inclusivity.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and clearly presented.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Signalling Operative does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as maintaining rail signals and diagnosing faults. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your interest in the position.
✨Show Team Spirit
Since working as part of a team is crucial for this role, be prepared to discuss your experiences collaborating with others. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams in the past, especially in challenging situations.
✨Communicate Effectively
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain technical concepts in simple terms, as you may need to liaise with different teams during your work.
✨Be Prepared for Shift Work
As the job requires working varied shifts, including nights and weekends, be ready to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Show that you understand the demands of the role and are willing to adapt your schedule accordingly.