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- Tasks: Maintain and repair trains to ensure safe and reliable journeys for passengers.
- Company: Join Northern, the heartbeat of the North, connecting communities through rail.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, and exclusive discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on rail travel while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in engineering with electrical bias preferred.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to safety and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 51371 - 51371 £ per year.
Business function: Engineering
Grade: Fleet A Grade
Shifts
Salary: £51,371.00 per annum
Role type: On site
Hours: 35 per week
People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Behind every safe, smooth journey is a skilled engineering team keeping our fleet in top condition – and this is where you come in. As a Multi Skilled Engineer/Technician, you’d be right at the heart of our maintenance operation. Your work keeps trains safe, reliable, and ready for service, day in and day out. This is a hands‑on, safety‑critical role where your electrical expertise, problem‑solving skills, and attention to detail directly support thousands of customers across the North. It’s more than fixing faults or carrying out routine maintenance. It’s about pride in your craft, teamwork on the depot floor, and knowing the work you do matters every time a train leaves the shed.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Maintaining, servicing, and repairing traction and rolling stock to agreed standards and safety requirements
- Diagnosing faults using diagnostic software, carrying out fault finding and root cause analysis, with a particular focus on electric units
- Completing planned and reactive maintenance to keep trains safe and available for service
- Working closely with colleagues across the engineering team to plan work, share updates, and keep everyone aligned
- Communicating clearly with apprentices and peers, supporting learning and safe ways of working
- Following all safety procedures, carrying out assessments, and helping to maintain a clean, secure working environment
About You
- An engineering qualification to NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) – an electrical bias is ideal
- Experience fault finding and using diagnostic software to resolve technical issues
- The ability to stay focused and methodical in a fast‑paced, safety‑critical environment
- A flexible approach to shift work and changing operational demands
- A proactive mindset, with the confidence to lead by example and uphold high safety standards
- The motivation to mentor apprentices and contribute to better rail travel for everyone
Safety-critical Requirements
- Live within a 45-minute car journey of your home depot
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Pass a safety‑critical medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening
- Have no defective colour vision
Applications that do not meet these requirements cannot be progressed.
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 career pathways across the business.
- Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate the people who make a difference 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, after which rail quickly spread across the globe – and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the moments that shaped rail, we’re also looking ahead to the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. There’s never been a better time to play your part.
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 unconscious bias and 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.
A Grade Maintenance Engineer in Manchester employer: Northern
Contact Detail:
Northern Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land A Grade Maintenance Engineer in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Northern through LinkedIn or industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and safety protocols. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've tackled maintenance challenges in the past. Show them you're not just about fixing trains, but about keeping them safe and reliable!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly 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 A Grade Maintenance Engineer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your engineering qualifications and any relevant experience you have. We want to see how your skills align with the role of a Maintenance Engineer, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention your electrical expertise and problem-solving skills, as these are key to keeping our trains safe and reliable.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to communicate your experience and how you can contribute to our team. We appreciate a well-structured application!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially around electrical systems and fault diagnosis. Be ready to discuss your experience with diagnostic software and how you've tackled technical issues in the past.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role is all about teamwork, so be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in a fast-paced environment. Highlight any mentoring experiences you have, especially with apprentices, as this shows your commitment to developing others.
✨Safety First!
Since this is a safety-critical role, demonstrate your understanding of safety procedures and protocols. Be ready to discuss how you ensure a clean and secure working environment and how you’ve handled safety assessments in previous roles.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, training opportunities, and how they support their engineering team. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.