Operative - Signalling & Telecoms

At the heart of the railway network is a dedicated team who ensure every journey-passenger or freight-is safe, reliable, and efficient. As an Operative, you'll play a vital role in that mission, working hands-on with a close-knit team to maintain and support the infrastructure that keeps the railway running smoothly every day.
This role is more than a job-it's a gateway to a meaningful, future-proof career in the rail industry. Whether you're just starting out or transferring skills from another sector, we're here to help you grow and succeed.
About the role (External)
️ What You'll Be Doing
This role forms part of an 18-month accelerated development programme, designed to fast-track candidates into a qualified railway role.
The programme includes approximately 20 weeks of structured railway training, delivered in blocks of 2-3 weeks throughout the programme. Training will take place at various locations and will require regular travel and periods of staying away from home.
This is an intensive and rewarding opportunity for individuals who are flexible, committed, and motivated to develop a career within the railway industry. Successful candidates must be prepared for the demands of an accelerated learning environment and demonstrate the ability to balance practical experience with formal training.
As an Operative in Signalling & Telecoms, you'll be trained to maintain and fault find the equipment that controls train movements-signals, level crossings, points systems, and more. Your work will directly support railway safety and performance, while you develop skills across mechanical, electrical, and digital systems.
Your daily responsibilities will include:
· Working with your team to carry out essential maintenance and repairs
· Preparing vehicles and equipment before each shift
· Driving between work sites and transporting tools and materials
· ️ Working outdoors in all weather, sometimes in physically demanding environments

We welcome people from all backgrounds-no rail experience needed. What matters is your attitude, willingness to learn, and commitment to working safely as part of a team., · A qualification or demonstrable knowledge in engineering, electrical, or electronic systems
· Experience working in safety-critical environments
· A full manual UK driving licence (Category B)
· Flexibility to work shifts (days, nights, weekends)
· Ability to commute to your designated location within 60 minutes
· Ability to pass all pre-employment checks (D&A, medical, BPSS clearance)
The Skills That Matter
Skill
Why It Matters
Teamwork
Collaboration is essential for safe, efficient maintenance.
️ Communication
Clear, respectful communication keeps everyone safe and informed.
Proactive Planning
Being prepared ensures smooth, efficient operations.
Calm Under Pressure
You'll work near high-speed trains-focus is key.
Rule-Following
Safety procedures must be followed confidently and consistently.
Willingness to Learn
We'll support your technical and personal development throughout your career.
Your Growth, Your Future - From day one, you'll receive structured training to build your technical and interpersonal skills. Many Operatives progress into roles such as Technician, Team Leader, and beyond. Your career path is clear, and your potential is limitless.

2️⃣ Online Psychometric Testing - If successful, you'll complete approx. 45 minutes of online assessments. Your results are stored for six months for future applications.
Perks That Pack a Punch: We offer excellent benefits, including:
· Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
· Defined benefit pension scheme.
· 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
· Up to 75% off leisure travel.
· Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
· ️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
· Carer's leave to support those who matter.
· Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
· We offer generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees.
We're All About Inclusion - We believe diversity drives innovation. Whoever you are, however you identify, wherever you're from - if you've got the skills and the spark, we want you on our team. No suits required. Just bring your authentic self, All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Keeping people safe on the railway is at the heart of everything we do. Safe behaviour is therefore a requirement of working for Network Rail. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety on your application.
Drugs and Alcohol Standard:
All prospective candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced