At a Glance
- Tasks: Support railway safety by collaborating with inspectors and conducting site visits.
- Company: Join the Office of Rail and Road, a key regulator for Britain's railways.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting transformation programme with a focus on inclusivity and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in railway safety while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Interest in health and safety, strong communication, and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We're looking for 5 HM Inspector Assistants to join our Railway Safety Directorate. These roles are based at the following office locations: Birmingham, Glasgow, London, Manchester and York. At ORR we have adopted hybrid working and are currently expected to work from a workplace location for a minimum of two days per week or 40%.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is the independent economic and safety regulator for Britain’s railways and monitor of performance on England’s strategic road network. This is an exciting time to join ORR, as we are delivering a significant transformation programme to create a consistently agile and enabling organisation, with the right capability and a strong, inclusive culture that reflects our talented people.
This will ensure we continue to operate as an independent, expert regulator, fit for the future and equipped with the capabilities and ways of working required to support sector‑wide rail reform, while contributing to the government’s broader agenda on regulatory reform and economic growth.
The Railway Safety Directorate ensures duty‑holders in the railway industry manage health and safety risks effectively and comply with their statutory duties. We are looking to recruit five new HM Inspector Assistants, with successful candidates expected to start on 1 September 2026, with one role aligned to each of the following teams:
- Scotland Team – Glasgow
- Northwest & Central Team – Birmingham or Manchester
- Freight Team – Manchester or London
- Eastern Team – London or York
- TFL Team – London
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate closely with inspectors and colleagues to plan, deliver and support regulatory activity.
- Contribute to a supportive and inclusive team environment, sharing knowledge and learning from experienced inspectors to ensure the railway industry meets its health and safety obligations.
- Support operational HM Inspectors of Railways to deliver the Railway Safety workplan efficiently and safely.
- Independently undertake site visits, gather evidence, take statements and carry out initial enquiries into complex incidents, including fatalities and suicides.
- Use warranted powers under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) to assist with major incident responses and proactive inspection activities, assessing compliance with health and safety legislation and the effectiveness of duty holders’ risk controls.
- Develop regulatory skills and technical knowledge of railway operations and risks through formal classroom training and on‑the‑job training.
- Provide clear, informed advice to Inspectors and stakeholders, supporting ORR’s wider assessment of industry performance through effective collaboration, intelligence sharing and high‑quality reporting.
- Work within your home region while travelling and working away from your home as required.
HM Inspector Assistant employer: Office of Rail and Road (ORR)
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to employee development, ORR provides extensive training opportunities and supports hybrid working arrangements, allowing staff to balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Joining ORR means being part of a transformative organisation dedicated to enhancing the safety and efficiency of Britain's railways, all while contributing to meaningful regulatory reform.
Contact Detail:
Office of Rail and Road (ORR) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HM Inspector Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at ORR or in the railway safety sector on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just put your name on the radar for hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of health and safety regulations. We want to see that you’re not just passionate but also informed about the industry and its challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! Since collaboration is key in this role, think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve worked effectively in a team. We love to see how you contribute to a supportive environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at ORR.
We think you need these skills to ace HM Inspector Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the HM Inspector Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our Railway Safety Directorate!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for railway safety and regulatory work shine through in your application. Share any experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to health and safety, as this will resonate with us at ORR.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures we receive all your details correctly and helps us process your application smoothly. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office of Rail and Road (ORR)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an HM Inspector Assistant and the responsibilities that come with it. Brush up on health and safety regulations, especially the Health and Safety at Work Act. Familiarise yourself with the railway industry and its current challenges to show you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role is all about collaboration, so be ready to discuss your experience working in teams. Think of examples where you've supported colleagues or contributed to a positive team environment. Highlight how you can bring that supportive attitude to the Railway Safety Directorate.
✨Prepare for Real Scenarios
Expect questions about handling complex incidents or site visits. Prepare some scenarios where you've had to gather evidence or make decisions under pressure. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and act decisively, which is crucial for this role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Ask about the training opportunities available or how the team collaborates on regulatory activities. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
