At a Glance
- Tasks: Dispatch trains safely and punctually while ensuring excellent customer service.
- 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 with tailored training and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a pivotal moment in rail history and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to stay calm in fast-paced environments.
The predicted salary is between 24904 - 27004 £ per year.
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Customer & Commercial
GRADE ROLE TYPE: RO2s
LOCATION: Wilmslow
HOURS: Full Time - 6 Month FTC
Take control of the platform – and your career. Step into a fast‑paced, customer‑first role where clear communication, quick thinking and service excellence make a real difference every day.
What you’ll be doing:
- Dispatching trains safely and punctually from station platforms
- Communicating clearly with train crews, station staff and control rooms
- Monitoring train movements and responding quickly to disruptions or changes
- Ensuring safety protocols are followed at all times
- Delivering excellent customer service and information, especially during delays
About you:
- Strong communication and decision‑making skills
- Ability to stay calm, focused and accurate in a fast‑paced environment
- Good awareness of safety procedures and regulations (training provided)
- Flexibility to work shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays
- Previous rail, transport or safety‑critical experience is a bonus – but not essential
All offers are subject to a medical assessment.
Salary: £27,004 after full completion of probation (£24,904 during probation)
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 of 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, recognised qualifications and enhanced career pathways.
- Recognition: Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate brilliance.
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, our mission is to improve rail travel, enhance the customer experience and protect the environment. We celebrate 200 years of the modern railway. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history.
A place for everyone:
The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. We are a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and welcome all backgrounds. We provide reasonable adjustments and ensure fair treatment throughout the hiring process. All successful offers are subject to DBS checks and medical assessments.
Dispatcher - 6 month FTC in Wilmslow employer: Northern
Contact Detail:
Northern Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dispatcher - 6 month FTC in Wilmslow
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Northern and understand their values, mission, and what they stand for. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Dispatcher, clear communication is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family where you have to dispatch trains or handle disruptions. This will help you feel more confident when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your quick thinking! Prepare examples from your past experiences where you had to make fast decisions under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to stay calm and focused in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities there, so keep an eye out for any roles that match your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Dispatcher - 6 month FTC in Wilmslow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Communication Skills: Since this role is all about clear communication, make sure your application reflects your ability to convey information effectively. Use examples from your past experiences where you had to communicate under pressure or in a fast-paced environment.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don’t have direct rail or transport experience, think about any roles where you’ve had to make quick decisions or follow safety protocols. We want to see how your background can bring value to our team!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send the same CV and cover letter everywhere! Take a moment to tailor your application specifically for this Dispatcher role. Mention why you’re excited about working with us and how you align with our mission.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows that you’re serious about joining our team at Northern!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what a Train Dispatcher does. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities like dispatching trains safely and communicating with crews. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since clear communication is crucial for this position, prepare examples from your past experiences where you effectively communicated under pressure. Think of situations where you had to relay important information quickly or resolve misunderstandings.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The role requires quick thinking and the ability to stay focused in a fast-paced environment. During the interview, share instances where you successfully managed stressful situations. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the demands of the job.
✨Understand Safety Protocols
Even if you don’t have previous rail experience, showing an awareness of safety procedures can set you apart. Brush up on general safety protocols relevant to transport and be ready to discuss how you would prioritise safety in your role as a dispatcher.