At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to maintain the railway and ensure safe, efficient travel for millions.
- Company: Network Rail, a leading organisation dedicated to connecting people and goods across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 75% off leisure travel, flexible working hours, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working outdoors in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Teamwork, communication skills, and a proactive attitude are essential; rail experience is not required.
The predicted salary is between 32369 - 32369 £ per year.
Who We Are
At Network Rail, we're part of a large family serving millions of passengers and freight users throughout the UK every day. Our service impacts millions of people and we strive to become more efficient as we enhance, maintain and operate our network. Now is a fantastic time to join our team in Wales and Western region as we finalise the reforms to our maintenance organisation which will deliver:
- A safer and more reliable and punctual service for passengers and employees
- Quicker fault fixes by more agile multi-disciplined response teams
- Individual rostering enabling us to send the right number of people to fix a fault
- Multi-skilling investing in the knowledge and skills of our people so they are better equipped to fix the most common faults themselves
- Accelerated and improved technology deployment with a raft of labour and life-saving technology ready to be rolled out
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.
About our people and the recruitment process
We're an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone! We look for opportunities to offer great opportunities to learn and grow through personal and professional development. If you make the grade, then you can look forward to a rewarding and fulfilling career with a company that joined the top 50 in Glassdoor's 2021 Best Places to Work.
About the role
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.
As a Network Rail employee, you will enjoy a wide range of benefits!
- Privileged staff travel - Leisure travel discount of 75% on all leisure travel and includes family members
- A subsidy of up to 75% on rail and underground season tickets if you travel to work on the train
- Benefits package including healthcare offers, a cycle to work scheme, discounted healthcare club membership, and discounted offers and benefits including childcare, healthcare and online shopping site
- Effectively manage work-life balance with a 35hrs per week contract, with hybrid working, flexible working, and family friendly support
- 5 days paid volunteering leave
- 2 weeks paid reserve leave for the Armed Forces community
- In Wales and Western region, you will have the opportunity to join PROUD, our reward and recognition scheme where you can say thanks and recognise colleagues across the region who have demonstrated outstanding values and behaviours
Salary: £32,369 per annum. Some on call may be required at times.
Closing date: 12th August 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. There are 3 positions available.
The assessment process will consist of a competency and technical 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. Diversity and inclusion are more than just buzz words for us. We're constantly striving to make sure we provide a welcoming and safe environment for everyone. We recognise that certain groups are under-represented within our team and we're working closely with our regional diversity and inclusion networks to make sure we support these groups as best as we can.
We are working in conjunction with the Cultural Fusion team. If you would like support with your application or interview please contact Wales&WesternCulturalFusion@networkrail.co.uk or visit the connect page: Wales and Western Cultural Fusion (sharepoint.com). For all other support please contact your HR Business Partner.
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 Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please contact WesternResourcing@networkrail.co.uk.
Safe behaviour
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. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety within your application.
Your experience and skills
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:
- Teamworking - 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
Railway Maintenance Operative — Outdoor, All-Weather in Swindon employer: NETWORK RAIL
Network Rail is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to vital infrastructure projects in the UK. The supportive culture and commitment to maintaining accurate data ensure that your role as a Data & SharePoint Support Specialist is both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Railway Maintenance Operative — Outdoor, All-Weather in Swindon
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Railway Maintenance Operative — Outdoor, All-Weather in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch NETWORK RAIL's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at NETWORK RAIL. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at NETWORK RAIL
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at NETWORK RAIL.
