At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our night team to keep trains clean and ready for passengers.
- Company: Northern is a leading train operator connecting communities across the North.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, exclusive discounts, and tailored training.
- Other info: No prior experience needed; comprehensive training provided.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to enhance rail travel and make a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, live within 45 minutes of the station, and pass safety assessments.
The predicted salary is between 19800 - 26700 £ per year.
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Engineering
GRADE: TPO Shifts
SALARY: £26,400 per annum
ROLE TYPE: Onsite
HOURS: Average 35 per week.
SHIFTS: Night shifts, on a rolling roster
While most of the North is asleep, our trains are getting ready for a new day. The night cleaning team plays a vital role in making sure every service starts the morning clean, safe, and ready for our passengers.
As a Night Train Cleaner at Northern, you’ll join a dedicated, supportive team that takes real pride in setting the standard before the first passengers step on board. Working behind the scenes, you’ll hit the ground running, using your experience to help keep our fleet in top condition—tackling everything from thorough daily cleans to deeper specialist work. If you have a strong work ethic, great attention to detail, and want to be part of a team that works hard and supports each other, this is a great place to build your career.
What you’ll be doing
Working as part of our night operation, you’ll bring your focus and dedication to help prepare trains for the next day’s service. Your work will include:
- Cleaning train interiors thoroughly, including tables, windows, seats, floors, and high-touch areas to the highest hygiene standards.
- Removing litter, emptying bins, and restocking essential onboard facilities.
- Carrying out intensive full cleans or specialist deep cleans to ensure our fleet looks its absolute best.
- Operating specialist cleaning equipment and using effective techniques to remove ingrained dirt across all areas of the train.
- Responding safely and promptly to more demanding cleaning tasks, including biohazard spills (such as blood or vomit), following health and safety procedures to the letter.
- Working closely with your team to ensure all work is completed efficiently so trains depart safely and on time.
About you
We’re looking for hard-working, dedicated individuals who take genuine pride in a job well done. You’ll bring:
- Prior cleaning experience (commercial, industrial, or domestic), giving you the practical know-how to hit the ground running from day one.
- Exceptional attention to detail and high standards—you notice the small details others might miss.
- A strong work ethic and team mindset, bringing positive energy and reliability to a close-knit night team.
- Comfort working outdoors and onboard trains in all weather conditions during night hours.
- Physical capability and stamina—you’re comfortable climbing onto trains from ground level and staying active throughout your shift (hitting 10,000+ steps a night is standard).
- Confident using technology, with the ability to accurately record and manage tasks such as cleaning schedules through our MPRO5 system.
- Flexibility to work night shifts across weekends and bank holidays as part of a rolling roster.
While role-specific depot safety and specialised equipment training will be provided, prior cleaning experience and a proactive, dedicated attitude are essential.
This is a role in a safety critical environment, 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Train Cleaner- Nights employer: Northern
Northern trains is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work culture in the heart of Manchester. Employees benefit from comprehensive training, opportunities for professional growth, and a strong emphasis on teamwork, making it an ideal environment for those looking to thrive in a fast-paced rail control setting. With a commitment to safety and customer service, Northern trains ensures that every team member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional travel experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Train Cleaner- Nights
✨Join Local Community Boards
Get involved in local community boards or forums related to janitorial services. You'll find job postings and connect with businesses in your area, which can really bolster your chances of landing that full-time gig at places like Northern.
✨Network with Industry Pros
Don't underestimate the power of networking! Attend industry-specific events or workshops in your locality. Chatting with people already in the field can lead you to hidden job opportunities that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a simple portfolio that outlines your experience and specific skills in janitorial services. You can showcase before-and-after photos of your work or even testimonials from past employers. This can help you stand out when applying at places like Northern.
✨Apply Directly and Keep it Local
When you see a full-time position that sparks your interest, don’t just apply online. If you can, walk into the company, like Northern, with a smile and express your eagerness to contribute. Nothing beats meeting face-to-face and making that personal connection!
We think you need these skills to ace Train Cleaner- Nights
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When showcasing your experience, focus on any previous roles in janitorial or cleaning services. Include specifics like the types of environments you've worked in – be it offices, schools, or hospitals – and mention any cleaning techniques or equipment you're familiar with. This will show Northern that you’ve got the practical skills needed for the job!
Certifications Matter:If you have any certifications related to cleaning, health and safety, or equipment handling, make sure to include them in your CV. These can really set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to quality and safety in your approach, which is crucial in the janitorial industry.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should explain why you’re interested in working with Northern specifically. Talk about what excites you about the role and how you align with their values. Maybe you love maintaining cleanliness and creating a welcoming environment; let that shine through!
Get Your Availability Clear:Since this is a full-time position, be sure to mention your availability at the beginning of your application. Northern will want to know that you can commit to the hours required, so throwing in your ideal working times can help ease any worry about schedule conflicts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern
✨Know Your Cleaning Techniques
Brush up on various cleaning techniques and equipment you're familiar with. Be ready to highlight specific experiences where you've tackled challenging cleaning situations. This could give the hiring team at Northern a glimpse of your hands-on skills!
✨Safety First!
Make sure you're up-to-date on health and safety regulations relevant to janitorial work. We can expect some questions about how you handle hazardous materials or ensure hygiene—demonstrating knowledge here shows you're serious about your job and safety at Northern.
✨Flexibility is Key
As this is a full-time role, be prepared to discuss your flexibility regarding shifts and potential overtime. Employers love to see candidates who are adaptable to changing schedules, so share experiences that highlight your commitment and reliability.
✨Present Your Experience!
If you have a portfolio or references from previous jobs in cleaning services, bring them along or have them ready to share. This can strengthen your case at Northern, showcasing your work ethic and the quality of your previous roles in janitorial services.
