Train Cleaning Team Leader - Days in Manchester

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on – and that starts with how they look and feel. A clean, welcoming train sets the tone for every journey, whether someone is heading to work, visiting family, or exploring the North. As part of our Engineering function, you’d be right at the heart of that experience. This role gives you the chance to lead from the front, supporting a team of Train Cleaners to deliver consistently high standards, day in and day out. You’ll be hands‑on, outdoors and onboard our trains, making sure every shift runs smoothly and every train leaves looking its best.

What you’ll be doing:

• Leading and supporting a team of Train Cleaners to deliver spotless trains and hygienic working environments.
• Taking responsibility for the successful running of the day shift – organising workloads, allocating tasks, and communicating priorities clearly.
• Working alongside your team to complete cleaning tasks, setting the standard through your own approach and attention to detail.
• Making sure health and safety procedures are followed at all times, including the safe handling of cleaning materials and equipment.
• Responding confidently to challenges on shift, thinking on your feet and managing unexpected cleaning issues that could affect train services – including more demanding tasks such as dealing with spills of blood or vomit, making sure they’re resolved quickly, safely, and in line with procedures.
• Creating a positive, supportive atmosphere where new starters and experienced colleagues feel confident and supported.

About you:

• Pride, people skills and practicality – that’s what will set you up for success here.
• The confidence to lead a team and take ownership of a shift from start to finish.
• A strong sense of responsibility for health and safety, with the confidence to follow procedures and encourage others to do the same.
• Clear, effective communication skills – whether you’re briefing your team or working with colleagues from across the business.
• A practical, hands‑on approach and a willingness to muck in alongside your team.
• The ability to stay calm under pressure, think on your feet, and deal with challenging situations when they arise.

You’re comfortable working outdoors and onboard trains in all weathers, adaptable to changing demands, and happy to work weekends and bank holidays when needed. It’s a physically active, hands‑on role too – the kind where hitting a 10,000‑step day is all part of the job, and no two shifts ever feel the same. No previous cleaning experience is required – we’ll give you full training to set you up for success. This is a safety‑critical role. To be considered, you must:

• Live within a 45‑minute car journey of the station you’ll work from.
• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Be able to pass a safety‑critical medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening.
• Have no defective 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: 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: 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 2,650 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 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.