Rail Operations Lead: Safety‑Focused On‑Site Leader in Tonbridge

We have a great opportunity for two Rail Operative 3 to work on the track renewals workbank of the SID project providing safety critical support to the project team based in Sussex or Kent area.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate rail operational access across assigned projects, ensuring safe and efficient delivery of planned works.
• Act as a team leader on site, providing clear direction and promoting high standards of leadership, safety, and performance.
• Manage and oversee work groups on rail infrastructure, taking responsibility as the person in charge where required.
• Plan and integrate operational access arrangements, working closely with possession planners and SSOW teams to ensure successful execution.
• Prepare site documentation, worksite briefings, and operational diagrams to support safe delivery.
• Maintain strong communication with Rail Operations leadership and project stakeholders, providing clear updates and reports.
• Deliver safety briefings, toolbox talks, and ensure compliance with all health, safety, and rail industry standards.
• Conduct site audits and risk assessments, promoting a safety‑first culture aligned with zero‑incident objectives.
• Undertake Responsible Manager and site management duties, ensuring works are delivered in line with project programmes.
• Record and report shift activities, maintaining accurate logs and escalating key information to senior project teams.
• Represent the Rail Operations team professionally on site and in the office, maintaining high levels of discipline and conduct.
• Attend and contribute to planning and operational meetings as required.
• Carry out safety‑critical duties in line with the Rule Book (GE/RT8000) once trained and competent.

Qualifications and Requirements

• We're looking for a motivated and safety‑focused rail professional with proven experience operating in an ES or Nominated Person role within the rail industry.
• You'll bring strong leadership capability, a proactive mindset, and the confidence to take ownership of operational activities on rail infrastructure.
• You’ll hold valid PTS certification and be competent as a COSS, ES or NP, with a solid understanding of safety‑critical responsibilities.
• A full UK driving licence is essential.
• You'll be an excellent communicator, with strong written and spoken English skills, and be comfortable producing clear documentation and reports.
• Strong IT skills are key, including experience using Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams and PowerPoint), along with industry systems such as EPIC and V‑Forms.
• You'll demonstrate a positive attitude to safety at all times, with the ability to assess risk, challenge unsafe behaviours, and promote a zero‑incident culture.
• A proactive, self‑motivated approach is essential, alongside the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• As a natural leader, you'll be confident managing and leading work groups, while also supporting the development of others by mentoring junior team members.

Desirable qualifications and competencies

• CDM awareness, IOSH, First Aid at Work, Risk Assessment, Lift Planning, Responsible Manager, SAC, Fire Warden, ALO, MC/CC, as well as additional rail competencies such as SW, PC, AP, Points Operator, Level Crossing Attendant, and small tools.

Benefits

• We offer competitive rewards and benefits, recognising the value we place on our employees.
• We offer a range of benefits, including:
• Competitive salary
• Competitive annual leave and an additional day off on your birthday
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Shopping and restaurants vouchers, rewards, and discounts
• Training and development opportunities - comprehensive skills‑based training
• Family‑friendly policies including enhanced maternity benefits
• Employee Assistance programme
• Mental health, physical health, and financial support