Assistant Controller - Carlisle

Assistant Controller - Carlisle

Carlisle Full-Time 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Nuclear Transport Solutions

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support real-time rail operations and ensure safety and reliability in a fast-paced environment.
  • Company: Join NTS, a leader in nuclear transport solutions with a commitment to safety and teamwork.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, hybrid working, health benefits, and a nuclear pension scheme.
  • Other info: Embrace a culture of freedom, helpfulness, and drive while championing equality and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on national rail operations while developing your skills in a dynamic team.
  • Qualifications: GCSEs/NVQ Level 2 and experience in rail operations or customer-focused environments.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.

About the role

At Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS), safety, reliability and teamwork sit at the heart of everything we do — and our Rail Control Room is no exception. As an Assistant Controller, you’ll play a critical role in keeping our rail operations running safely, securely and on time. Working alongside the Controller, you’ll help manage real‑time national train operations, communicate with customers and stakeholders, and ensure our services meet the highest rail and nuclear industry standards. This is a fast‑paced, hands‑on role where no two days are the same. If you thrive under pressure, enjoy problem‑solving in real time and want to make a genuine impact on nationally significant operations, this could be the role for you.

What you’ll be doing

  • You’ll be a key part of the Control Room team, supporting the delivery of NTS Rail’s train services by:
  • Supporting the Controller in managing real‑time rail operations, ensuring safety, security and reliability at all times
  • Carrying out all required TOPS Control Room activities, including:
  • Calling and amending schedules
  • Consisting trains
  • Producing train lists
  • Locating vehicles
  • Managing maintenance windows
  • Handling vehicle defects (including red and green card processes)
  • Acting in line with Railway Group Standards, the Control Manual and company procedures
  • Supporting effective responses to operating incidents and emergencies, including notifying on‑call colleagues when required
  • Acting as a professional interface between customers, internal teams, suppliers and Network Rail, supporting service recovery and disruption management
  • Booking train crew on and off duty and, when required, briefing them on operational and duty requirements
  • Supporting short‑notice resource changes and operational challenges
  • Providing clear, accurate and timely service updates, including delays, cancellations and alterations
  • Assisting with Schedule 8 dispute management alongside the Senior Performance Controller
  • Monitoring RT3973 forms and flagging when re‑issue is required
  • Supporting the Nuclear Control Room at Sellafield, as required
  • Maintaining up‑to‑date knowledge of safety, security and operational procedures
  • Championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within the Operations team
  • Living our NTS culture values every day:
    • Freedom – creating space for people to perform
    • Helpfulness – supporting colleagues and customers
    • Drive – being confident, curious and innovative

    About you

    You’ll bring a strong rail operations background, a calm and professional approach, and a real commitment to teamwork and safety. You’ll have:

    • GCSEs / NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent)
    • A higher‑level qualification in a related field (desirable)
    • Experience working within the rail industry
    • Experience in customer‑focused environments
    • Confidence interacting with people at all levels

    You’ll know your way around:

    • Rail industry operations
    • TOPS
    • Nuclear industry requirements
    • The NTS Rail business environment

    You’ll be someone who:

    • Holds high standards and is results‑focused
    • Communicates clearly, calmly and professionally
    • Is highly organised with strong time‑management skills
    • Works well as part of a team while using their own initiative
    • Can work confidently and accurately without close supervision
    • Is customer‑focused and solution‑driven

    Technical skills include:

    • TOPS (core)
    • Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook (core)
    • Systems such as Trust, CCF, NROL, Q‑Pulse
    • Familiarity with Control Manuals, Emergency and Security Plans, Rule Book modules and RADSAFE awareness (or willingness to learn)

    Key information

    • Team size: Approx. 11 (no direct reports)
    • Travel: Willingness to travel as required
    • Flexibility: Able to work shifts and adopt a flexible approach
    • Medical: Medically fit to required standard
    • Additional responsibilities: First Aid and Fire Warden duties where applicable

    Who you’ll work with

    • Rail Division Senior Leadership Team
    • NTS colleagues across the business
    • Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) and NDA Group partners
    • Commercial customers and suppliers
    • UK Government organisations
    • Regulators and other key external stakeholders

    Safety, security & compliance

    At NTS, safety and security are paramount. You’ll be expected to:

    • Comply with all company rules, standards and procedures
    • Meet the requirements of the Official Secrets Act
    • Fulfil your responsibilities under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
    • Undertake any reasonable duties within the scope of your role and grade

    Please note: Duties may vary in line with business needs. Work location will be agreed with your line manager and may change to meet operational requirements.

    The Kind of People We’re Looking For

    We’re interested in who you are, not just what’s on your CV. You’re likely to thrive at NTS if you:

    • Take ownership of your work and enjoy being trusted to deliver
    • Are collaborative, approachable and naturally supportive of others
    • Care about doing the right thing, in the right way
    • Are curious and motivated to learn, improve and grow
    • Communicate openly and act with integrity and respect
    • Are comfortable working in a purpose‑driven, safety‑critical environment

    You don’t need to tick every box on day one — we value potential, attitude and alignment with our culture just as much as experience.

    Benefits

    • 30 Days holidays plus 8 bank holidays
    • Buy / Sell annual leave
    • Health shield
    • Nuclear Pension scheme
    • Hybrid working
    • Family friendly

    The company

    We are the leading global provider of safe, secure and reliable nuclear transport solutions that make the world safer and more sustainable. As part of the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, we support the largest environmental restoration programme in Europe, and we use our specialist transport and logistics expertise to help customers and partners around the world solve their own complex challenges.

    Assistant Controller - Carlisle employer: Nuclear Transport Solutions

    At Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS), we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment where safety, reliability, and teamwork are paramount. As an Assistant Controller in Carlisle, you'll benefit from a culture that champions personal growth and development, alongside competitive benefits such as 30 days of holiday, a nuclear pension scheme, and hybrid working options. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a purpose-driven role that supports critical national operations while enjoying a collaborative atmosphere that values your contributions.
    Nuclear Transport Solutions

    Contact Detail:

    Nuclear Transport Solutions Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Assistant Controller - Carlisle

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Get to know the company inside out! Research Nuclear Transport Solutions and understand their values, operations, and recent news. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to rail operations and safety. Think about real-life scenarios where you've demonstrated teamwork and problem-solving skills, as these are key in the role of Assistant Controller.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and highlighting a key point from your conversation can leave a lasting impression. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!

    We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Controller - Carlisle

    Rail Operations Management
    TOPS
    Customer Service Skills
    Communication Skills
    Time Management
    Problem-Solving Skills
    Teamwork
    Attention to Detail
    Microsoft Word
    Microsoft Excel
    Microsoft Outlook
    Familiarity with Control Manuals
    Emergency and Security Plans
    Adaptability
    Safety Compliance

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Controller role. Highlight your relevant experience in rail operations and customer-focused environments, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.

    Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with our needs. If you've got experience with TOPS or working in a safety-critical environment, let us know how that makes you a great fit for the team!

    Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!

    How to prepare for a job interview at Nuclear Transport Solutions

    ✨Know Your Rail Operations

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of rail operations and the specific responsibilities of an Assistant Controller. Familiarise yourself with TOPS and any relevant industry standards, as this will show your commitment to safety and reliability during the interview.

    ✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

    Prepare examples of how you've successfully handled real-time operational challenges in the past. Think about situations where you had to make quick decisions under pressure, as this role requires a calm and professional approach to problem-solving.

    ✨Showcase Your Teamwork

    Since teamwork is crucial in this role, be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous positions. Highlight instances where you supported colleagues or worked effectively within a team to achieve common goals, especially in high-pressure environments.

    ✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

    Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. This role involves interacting with various stakeholders, so demonstrating strong communication skills will be key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your delivery.

    Assistant Controller - Carlisle
    Nuclear Transport Solutions
    Location: Carlisle
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