Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Rail Signalling Operative, maintaining vital railway signals and ensuring safe travel.
- Company: Network Rail connects millions across the UK, prioritising safety and efficiency in rail transport.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £37k starting salary, 30 days' leave, and discounts on leisure rail travel for you and your family.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working outdoors; no experience needed, just determination and teamwork.
- Qualifications: A full clean driving licence and problem-solving skills are essential; no prior qualifications required.
- Other info: Flexible shift patterns with a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 41000 £ per year.
4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
Location
Inverkeithing, GB
Department Name
Scotland
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!
Scotland\’s Railway is part of this large family and it covers a large geographical area from the Borders to Thurso at the far tip of the North East of Scotland, accounting for almost 20 per cent of the UK rail network. We provide rapid access along busy commuter routes to our seven cities, servicing the varied needs of our business and leisure commuter services, including cross border services and rural services. We have up to 50 freight services operating every day and we are steadily building capacity for this to grow. Our ambition to be responsive to passengers and freight users, drives us every day and we\’re empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network. We actively challenge unsafe practices and take responsibility for addressing risks, resolving issues and protecting safety and wellbeing.
Brief Description
Get your career on track
£37k* starting salary
With a starting salary of £37k* and no experience needed, a career in rail signalling is one that pays. Whether you’re a school leaver, looking for a career change, or returning to work after some time out, we want to hear from you. No skills or qualifications required, here at Network Rail we’re looking for potential.
So, what’s the catch? Well, life trackside is challenging, you need determination, but the rewards are worth it. Our rail Signalling Operatives work outdoors and around the clock to battle everything from power outage emergencies to repairing storm damaged equipment to keep Britain moving. Have you got what it takes?
- Internal candidates – please see the ‘how to apply’ section to see the applicable salaries for this role.
As part of the application process, you will be required to complete some pre-screening questions. Please read each question carefully before responding.
About The Role (External)
What do Rail Signalling Operatives do?
Our rail network carries 18,000 passenger trains and 1,000 freight trains across 10,000 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 (yes, you guessed it) 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 4 weeks in advance so you can make plans with family and friends in good time.
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
What are we looking for?
We’re looking for people with bags of potential who have:
- A full clean driving licence
- Problem solving skills
- Good communication skills
- Teamwork skills
- A strong safety ethic
- Willingness and ability to work shift patterns with a mixture of daytime, evening and weekend work
- The ability to undertake physical manual work outdoors, whatever the weather
- Willingness to undertake medical assessment and drug and alcohol testing, as part of our recruitment process and whilst you’re working for us (it’s a safety requirement)
What’s in it for me?
- Competitive starting salary of for Signalling Operatives with the potential to increase for Signalling Technicians
- A fresh start – you don’t need to pay for expensive training courses or re-sit any exams, this is an entry level job and full training will be provided
- Development in a range of practical trades and skills to get you to the next career level; many maintenance workers progress to management roles – there’s no stopping you at Network Rail
- Great pension plus the chance to join Network Rail’s leading defined contribution pension scheme after five years’ service
- 75% discount on leisure rail travel for you and your family
- 30 days\’ annual leave
- Extra earning potential: 35-hour week with overtime opportunities (there may be a requirement to work on call)
Don’t meet every requirement?
Research suggests that individuals from underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a job if they don\’t meet all the listed criteria. We are building a diverse and inclusive place to work where people of all backgrounds can thrive. We encourage you to apply for this role.
We’re a Disability Confident organisation and we’ll try our best to adapt to suit individual needs.
Start your career journey with Network Rail and apply now.
How To Apply (External)
Please click apply to submit your CV and complete the pre-screening questions.
We\’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from everyone!
Network Rail is a Disability Confident Leader 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.
You can visit Evenbreak’s Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you’re unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please contact ScotlandResourcing@networkrail.co.uk .
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
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. Applicants should demonstrate their personal commitment to safety in their application.
Network Rail Benefits – To find out about what benefits we offer, click here
All applicants must complete and pass the pre-screening questions in order to be considered for this vacancy.
Grade – Maintenance Grade Terms and Conditions (Standard Maintenance Contract)
Salary: £37,073
Closing date: Midnight on Wednesday 20 th August 2025 – late applications will not be accepted.
We retain the right to close the advert before the listed closing date (based on application volumes) so if you are interested in this vacancy, we encourage you to make your application as early as possible.
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
-
Industries
Rail Transportation
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Network Rail by 2x
Get notified about new Maintenance Specialist jobs in Inverkeithing, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Kirkcaldy, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 months ago
Grangemouth, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 months ago
Bathgate, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 days ago
Maintenance Technician – MOXY Edinburgh Fountainbridge
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Alloa, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 days ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Alloa, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 day ago
Newhouse, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Rosyth, Scotland, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Grangemouth, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 hours ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Grangemouth, Scotland, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Newhouse, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Rosyth, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 days ago
Grangemouth, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 6 days ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago
Maintenance Engineer (Electrically Biased)
Musselburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 day ago
Roadside Rescue Mechanic – Linlithgow – Field Based
Linlithgow, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 hours ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 5 days ago
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom 1 month ago
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
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 basics of rail signalling systems. Understanding how signals work and their importance in railway safety can give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network Rail values teamwork and communication skills. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked in a team or communicated effectively to solve a problem.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your willingness to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends. Highlighting your flexibility shows that you're committed to the role and understand the demands of working trackside.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to safety. Think of instances where you've prioritised safety in your previous roles or daily life, as this is crucial for a position in rail signalling.
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 Rail Signalling Operative does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and skills required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Even if you don't have direct experience, think about transferable skills that relate to the job. Emphasise your problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and commitment to safety in your CV and cover letter.
Complete Pre-Screening Questions Thoughtfully: Pay close attention to the pre-screening questions during the application process. Take your time to answer each question carefully, showcasing your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of its requirements.
Show Your Commitment to Safety: Since safety is a core value at Network Rail, make sure to express your personal commitment to safety in your application. Provide examples of how you've prioritised safety in past experiences, even if they are not directly related to rail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Show Your Safety Commitment
Since safety is paramount in the rail industry, be prepared to discuss your personal commitment to safety. Share examples from past experiences where you prioritised safety, whether in work or daily life.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
The role requires strong problem-solving abilities. Think of specific instances where you've successfully identified and resolved issues. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you approached the challenges.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Working as part of a team is crucial for this position. Prepare to talk about your experiences in team settings, focusing on how you contributed to group success and collaborated with others to achieve common goals.
✨Be Ready for Shift Work Discussion
Since the job involves varied shift patterns, express your willingness and ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays. It’s important to show that you understand the demands of the role and are flexible with your availability.