Traincrew Controller
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Control
SALARY: £58,487 per annum (90% salary during training period)
ROLE TYPE: Onsite
LOCATION: York ROC
HOURS: 42 per week
Every day, thousands of people rely on Northern to get where they need to be. Behind every train that arrives on time is a team making hundreds of decisions to keep services running safely and smoothly. As a Traincrew Controller, you will be right at the heart of that operation. Based in our Control team in York, you will manage traincrew resources in real time, responding to everything from unexpected absences to major service disruption. It is a role where no two shifts are the same. One moment you will be coordinating crew movements across the network, the next you will be finding solutions that help keep customers moving and minimise disruption.
What You’ll Be Doing
You will be responsible for the real‑time management of traincrew across the Northern network, ensuring services are delivered safely and efficiently.
- Manage traincrew deployment and respond to changes in operational requirements
- Make decisions during service disruption to reduce delays and maintain service levels
- Update rostering systems and communicate changes to relevant teams
- Monitor attendance and ensure records are accurate for payroll purposes
- Arrange alternative transport or accommodation for traincrew when needed
- Work closely with other controllers, Resource Planning and operational colleagues across the railway
- Maintain accurate operational records and contribute to daily event logs
- Support colleagues through coaching, training and mentoring where required
- Put customers at the centre of decision‑making, helping deliver the best possible outcome during disruption.
About You
Keeping trains moving takes good judgement, quick thinking and the confidence to make decisions when the unexpected happens.
We’re looking for someone with railway operational knowledge and the ability to balance safety, performance and customer needs. You will bring:
- Experience of working within a railway operational environment
- Knowledge of passenger train operations, disruption management and railway safety requirements
- A good understanding of traincrew rostering and conditions of service
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with a wide range of colleagues
- The ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions quickly
- Good IT skills and confidence using operational systems
- A customer‑focused mindset and a commitment to delivering the best possible service
- An eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities at the same time.
What’s in it for you
- 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.
- Electric Car Scheme – lease a brand new electric or plug‑in hybrid car.
- 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 and recognised qualifications, plus enhanced career pathways across the business.
- Recognition – Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate brilliance every day.
Equal Opportunity
We’re a Level 2 Disability Confident employer. If you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we will always offer an interview. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.
Application and selection processes are designed to provide a fair and inclusive experience.
