At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and drive trains, ensuring safety and reliability for millions of journeys.
- Company: Join Northern, the heartbeat of the North, connecting communities and driving growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, enhanced family benefits, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, supportive environment, and opportunities for career development await you.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with hands-on training and real impact on rail travel.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in Engineering and a passion for problem-solving required.
The predicted salary is between 52031 - 52031 £ per year.
- Engineering Technician and Depot Driver
- Business function: Engineering
Grade: STM Salary: £52,031 per annum.
During your training programme you'll receive 75% of the full salary before moving to the full rate once qualified.
Hours: 35 hours per week Role type: On site
Keeping trains moving starts here.
People come to Northern for trains they can rely on.
Behind every safe, clean and on-time journey is a team of skilled engineers making sure every train is ready to leave the depot.
As part of our Engineering team, you'll build two specialist skills in one role.
You'll maintain our trains to the highest standards and, once qualified, drive them safely around the depot to keep maintenance running smoothly.
It's a role with real variety, clear responsibility and a direct impact on millions of journeys across the North.
No previous train driving experience is needed.
We'll teach you everything you need to know through a structured training programme that combines classroom learning with practical experience at your depot.
If you're looking for a long-term engineering career with opportunities to develop, this could be your next stop.
- What you'll be doing
- Every shift brings a mix of practical engineering and operational responsibility. You'll:
- Carry out maintenance, servicing, inspections and fault finding to keep our trains safe, reliable and ready for service.
- Diagnose mechanical and electrical faults and work with colleagues to resolve them efficiently.
- Prepare trains for daily service through inspections, operational checks and planned maintenance activities.
- Drive and position trains safely around the depot to support maintenance activities and keep work flowing.
- Follow engineering standards, safe systems of work and depot procedures at all times.
- Help maintain a clean, organised and safe working environment.
- Work a shift pattern that includes nights, weekends and bank holidays.
About you
Engineering know-how, focus and the right attitude – that's what matters here.
You’ll bring
- An NVQ Level 3 qualification in Engineering, together with hands-on experience of mechanical and electrical systems.
- Confidence diagnosing faults and solving technical problems in a fast-paced environment.
- A strong commitment to safety and the concentration needed for a safety-critical role.
- The flexibility to adapt as priorities change across the depot.
- Clear communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with others.
- Pride in doing a job well and delivering work to a consistently high standard.
- The commitment to complete our train driver training programme and maintain the standards required for a safety-critical role.
No previous train driving experience is required.
Your training will begin with around six weeks of classroom-based learning in Leeds or Manchester before moving into practical training at your home depot, where you'll continue developing your engineering and depot driving skills.
Before you apply
This is a safety-critical role and is subject to Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) regulations. To progress, you'll need to meet all of the following criteria:
- You live within a 45-minute car journey of the depot you'll work from.
- You're at least 18 years old when you apply.
- You can pass a safety-critical medical, including drugs and alcohol screening.
- You do not have defective colour vision.
What’s in it for you?
At Northern, we don't just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:
- Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner and your dependants on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks across the UK and Europe.
- Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
- Enhanced Family Benefits: Nine months of full pay for maternity leave and two weeks of full pay 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 learning, recognised qualifications and career pathways across the business.
- Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate colleagues who go the extra mile 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 every day, we're on a mission to improve rail travel, deliver a great customer experience and protect 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 throughout the recruitment 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 you an interview.
We automate parts of our screening process to remove unconscious bias and help make sure every application is treated fairly.
Any offer of employment 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.
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Skilled Train Maintainer/ Depot Driver in Manchester employer: Northern
Northern is an excellent employer, offering a unique opportunity for Night Train Cleaners in Manchester to enjoy unlimited free travel and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth. With tailored training programmes and a generous pension scheme, we foster an environment where every team member can thrive and develop their skills while contributing to the cleanliness and readiness of our trains.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Skilled Train Maintainer/ Depot Driver in Manchester
✨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 Skilled Train Maintainer/ Depot Driver in Manchester
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 Northern'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 Northern. 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 Northern
✨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 Northern.
