At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to keep trains clean, safe, and welcoming for passengers.
- Company: Northern, the heartbeat of the North, connecting communities through rail.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, exclusive discounts, and career development.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; no prior experience needed, full training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in customer experience while staying active and engaged.
- Qualifications: Reliability, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are key.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 € per year.
People come to Northern for trains they can rely on – clean, comfortable, and ready to take them where they need to be. Behind every smooth journey is a team that takes pride in the details others might overlook. As a Train Cleaner, you play a hands-on role in keeping our fleet ready for service across the North. Your work makes a real difference to how customers feel when they step on board, and to how our colleagues do their jobs every day. If you like practical work, being on your feet, and seeing the results of your efforts straight away, this could be a great fit.
What you’ll be doing
- Cleaning train interiors, including tables, windows, seats, touch-points, and floors.
- Removing litter and emptying bins.
- Restocking toilet supplies such as soap and toilet paper.
- Tackling spillages and more significant cleaning tasks safely and promptly, including biological spills such as blood or vomit.
- Working closely with colleagues to make sure trains are turned around on time and ready for service.
- Taking pride in keeping shared work areas clean and well organised.
About you
- Reliability, care, and attention to detail – those are the three things you’ll bring to this role.
- Comfortable working both outdoors and onboard trains, whatever the weather or time of year.
- Happy to stay active throughout your shift – it’s not unusual to clock up around 10,000 steps a day.
- Confident working as part of a team and building positive working relationships with colleagues from all backgrounds.
- Flexible enough to work a range of shifts, including weekends and bank holidays.
- Keen to learn. You don’t need previous cleaning experience – we’ll give you full training to set you up for success.
This is a safety-critical role, which means you’ll need to meet Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) requirements. To apply, you must:
- Live within a 45-minute car journey of the station you’ll work from.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a safety-critical medical, including drugs and alcohol screening.
- Have normal colour vision.
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: 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: Tailored training, recognised qualifications, and clear pathways across the business.
- Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate the brilliant work our people do 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 2,650 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’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, you’ll be offered an interview.
We automate parts of our screening process to remove unconscious bias and make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers are 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.
Train Cleaner - Days in Sheffield employer: Northern Trains Limited
At Northern, we pride ourselves on being more than just a train operator; we are a community-focused employer dedicated to supporting our staff. With generous benefits like unlimited free travel for you and your family, a robust pension scheme, and tailored training opportunities, we foster a culture of growth and recognition. Join us in a role that not only offers practical work but also allows you to make a meaningful impact on the customer experience across the North.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Train Cleaner - Days in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Northern. Understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Think about the key responsibilities of a Train Cleaner and prepare some examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your reliability and attention to detail. Even if you don’t have direct cleaning experience, think of times when you’ve shown these qualities in other jobs or situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to show your teamwork skills! Since you'll be working closely with others, be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated with colleagues in the past. Highlight any experiences where you helped create a positive work environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join the Northern family. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Train Cleaner - Days in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Attention to Detail:As a Train Cleaner, attention to detail is key! Make sure your application highlights any experiences where you've demonstrated this skill, even if it's not in a cleaning role. We love seeing how you take pride in your work!
Be Yourself:We want to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share why you’re excited about the role and how you connect with our mission at Northern.
Highlight Teamwork Experience:Since you'll be working closely with a team, it’s important to showcase any past experiences where you’ve collaborated with others. Whether it’s in a job or a group project, we want to see how you build positive relationships!
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to see your application and get you on board for an exciting journey with Northern!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Trains Limited
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a Train Cleaner involves. Familiarise yourself with the tasks listed in the job description, like cleaning train interiors and restocking supplies. This will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role requires working closely with colleagues, be prepared to discuss your teamwork skills. Think of examples from past experiences where you collaborated effectively. Highlighting your ability to build positive relationships will show that you're a great fit for their close-knit team.
✨Emphasise Reliability and Attention to Detail
Reliability is key in this safety-critical role. Be ready to share instances where you've demonstrated these qualities. Whether it’s being punctual or ensuring tasks are completed thoroughly, showcasing your attention to detail will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about training opportunities or how the team ensures cleanliness and safety on the trains. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.