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- Tasks: Maintain and repair railway tracks to ensure safe train operations.
- Company: Network Rail connects people and goods, operating the UK's railway infrastructure 24/7.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, discounts on travel, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a diverse team, gain hands-on experience, and build a clear career path.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Work outdoors in all weather; driving licence required for Network Rail vehicles.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 £ per year.
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Join to apply for the Operative [Track Maintenance] role at Network Rail
About Network Rail
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure 24/7 365 days a year. Our purpose is to connect people and goods with where they need to be and our vision is for a simpler, better, greener railway.
Location
Blackburn, GB
Department Name
BK SM(Tr) Blackburn Direct (855111) G1
About Network Rail
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure 24/7 365 days a year. Our purpose is to connect people and goods with where they need to be and our vision is for a simpler, better, greener railway.
We\’re proud to be named as one of the Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equity for the fourth year running. Find out more from our people here.
Our North West route covers Cheshire to Cumbria, including key cities like Liverpool and Manchester, and destinations such as Blackpool and the Lake District. Major stations include Crewe, Liverpool Lime Street, Preston, and Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria
This busy region sees 1.3 million daily passengers and moves 700,000 tonnes of freight weekly, with 571 stations making up a quarter of Britain\’s rail network.
We champion diversity and inclusion, creating safe, innovative workplaces. We also support flexible and hybrid working — if it works, we’ll make it happen. Please click here for more information .
Brief Description
Play a vital role in keeping the country moving.
Maintaining the rail network is a key part of what we do every day. As a railway Operative, you\’ll work outdoors as part of a close-knit team, carrying out essential maintenance on the tracks to ensure trains run safely and reliably for both passengers and freight.
Our operatives come from all walks of life—this could be your first time considering a role in the rail industry. We value transferable skills and the right attitude above all. If you can bring those, we’ll provide the training you need to work safely and confidently out on the network.
Please Note: There may be a requirement to work on call in this role if you opt to take the Standard Maintenance Contract
About The Role (External)
You’ll be responsible for maintaining, inspecting, and repairing the track network, (also known as the Permanent Way or P-Way) to keep the railway safe and efficient.This is a very manual role as you’ll be working with rails, sleepers and ballast that support the trains, together with their associated drainage and ancillary structures.
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. Today’s Operatives are tomorrow’s Technicians and we offer a clear career path for you.
Your Skills Matter
Teamworking – Our maintenance teams rely on your hard work and you will play an important role within the team. Being able to organise and control the safe and efficient delivery of work is vital.
Communication – A variety of clear communication skills to deliver instructions to the team and other colleagues are essential so work can be completed safely and effectively.
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 have knowledge of Track inspection, faulting, maintenance and renewal techniques to follow daily work instructions. Being familiar with maintenance standards and procedures would be advantageous.
Technical skills – you must have technical knowledge of the discipline you are applying for and know about construction management processes. Systems and standards would be advantageous, as well as previously achieved (or be working towards) an NVQ level 2 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject or gained through equivalent relevant experience, will help you excel in the role.
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)
We are a Disability Confident Leader and want to make the most of the skills and talents disabled people bring to the workplace -skills and talents we need in our business Click here for more information
Salary and benefits:
- Salary: £31,444 plus additional benefits (overtime, weekend, on-call, night rates)
- Pro-rata annual leave entitlement
- My benefits – our discounted online shopping site
- A range of discounted offers including, childcare vouchers, healthcare offers – cycle to work, healthcare club discounted membership and other benefits
- Subsidies of up to 75% on rail and underground season tickets
- 75% discount on leisure travel
- A choice of contributory pension schemes
- 2 weeks paid reserve leave for our Armed Forces community
Want to find out about what fantastic benefits we offer? Find out here
Network Rail adheres to a structured pay framework, any salary offered will be within the pay range advertised.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
Closing date: 30 th July 2025. Assessment Centre’s will take place in Manchester on 11 th August . We reserve the right to close the advert early if there is a high number of applicants.
Click ‘apply now’ to apply.
Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision
We will endeavour to offer a diverse interview panel wherever possible.
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.
- Some of our roles require face to face Drugs & Alcohol testing. Further details will be shared with you as part of your formal offer.****
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Employment type
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Operative [Track Maintenance] employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operative [Track Maintenance]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the railway infrastructure and maintenance processes. Understanding the basics of track inspection and maintenance will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network Rail values teamwork, so be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Since this role involves outdoor work in various weather conditions, demonstrate your adaptability and willingness to work in all environments. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your resilience.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss safety protocols and your understanding of safe working practices. Network Rail prioritises safety, so showing that you are safety-conscious will make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Operative [Track Maintenance]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Operative [Track Maintenance] role. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as teamwork, communication, and technical knowledge.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Emphasise any transferable skills you have, especially those related to manual work, safety awareness, and teamwork.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your commitment to safety and your willingness to learn and develop within the company.
Highlight Safety Awareness: Given the nature of the role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of safety protocols. Include any previous experience or training related to safety in your application to show you take this aspect seriously.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As an Operative, you'll be part of a close-knit team. Highlight your teamwork skills during the interview by sharing examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles or projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you convey instructions clearly and how you ensure everyone is on the same page, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Emphasise Your Adaptability
Working outdoors in various weather conditions is part of the job. Share experiences where you've adapted to changing circumstances or worked under pressure, showcasing your resilience and flexibility.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Safety Protocols
Safety is paramount in railway maintenance. Research Network Rail's safety vision and be ready to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work, including any relevant training or certifications you may have.
