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- Tasks: Lead planning and coordination of service alterations for railway operations.
- Company: Join Northern, the heartbeat of the North, transforming rail travel.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, and tailored career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on customer experience and network efficiency.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and attention to detail required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team where everyone belongs.
The predicted salary is between 36804 - 43771 £ per year.
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Strategic Development
SALARY: £36,804 - £43,771
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
HOURS: 37 per week
LOCATION: Manchester
When major engineering work reshapes the railway or planned changes affect how trains run, getting people where they need to be takes more than a standard timetable. It takes careful analysis, structured planning, and someone who can see how individual changes affect the whole network.
As part of our Service Planning team at Northern, you will play a central role in designing and coordinating service alterations that keep the region moving. While this can include public holidays or occasional major events, the focus of the role is on planned engineering access, timetable changes, and data-led service planning that ensures services remain robust, workable and customer-focused.
It's a role with real visibility and real impact. When complex changes are delivered smoothly and information is accurate, timely and consistent, you will know your work has made the difference.
What You’ll Be Doing
- You will take the lead on planning and coordinating service alterations arising from planned engineering work and other network changes, ensuring proposals are operationally sound and clearly communicated.
- Producing detailed, data-driven service specifications that balance operational constraints with customer needs.
- Managing the Informed Traveller process, using accurate data and strong attention to detail to ensure customers receive clear and timely information.
- Supporting the engineering access planning process, helping keep plans consistent, structured and well-controlled across all Northern routes.
- Working closely with teams across Northern and with industry partners to analyse impacts, resolve issues early, and avoid problems reaching the day of operation.
About You
You will bring strong analytical skills, excellent attention to detail and a good understanding of railway geography. You are comfortable working with large amounts of information, interpreting data, and managing multiple interdependent plans at once. You are methodical, organised and confident coordinating with a wide range of internal teams and external stakeholders. You are able to make well-judged decisions that balance operational requirements with the customer experience.
If you enjoy turning complex information and data into clear, workable plans — and take pride in getting the details right — you will feel right at home here.
What’s in it for you?
- Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
- Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
- Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
- Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
- Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
- Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.
Why Northern?
We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.
Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.
A place for everyone
The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.
We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.
No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob... there’s a place for you here in the railway.
Special Traffic Manager in Manchester employer: Northern rail
Contact Detail:
Northern rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Traffic Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to current employees at Northern. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by knowing your stuff! Research Northern’s recent projects and challenges in service planning. Show them you’re not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to their mission of improving rail travel.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or family member to do mock interviews with you. Focus on articulating your analytical skills and attention to detail, as these are key for the Special Traffic Manager role. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Northern team. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Special Traffic Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Special Traffic Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical skills, don’t shy away from showcasing examples where you've successfully interpreted data or managed complex information. We want to see how you can turn numbers into actionable plans!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Make sure your points are easy to read and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that communicate your ideas effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at Northern!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern rail
✨Know Your Data
As a Special Traffic Manager, you'll be dealing with a lot of data. Make sure you brush up on your analytical skills and understand how to interpret data effectively. Bring examples of how you've used data in past roles to make decisions or improve processes.
✨Understand the Railway Geography
Familiarise yourself with the railway network in the North. Knowing the geography will help you discuss how service alterations impact different routes. You might even want to prepare a few questions about their current operations to show your interest and knowledge.
✨Communicate Clearly
This role requires clear communication with various teams and stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts concisely and confidently. You could even do a mock interview with a friend to refine your communication style and ensure you're conveying your ideas effectively.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex issues in the past. Think of specific examples where you identified a problem, analysed the situation, and implemented a solution. This will demonstrate your ability to manage multiple interdependent plans and make well-judged decisions.