Off Track Operative

About Network Rail and the Role

Network Rail is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Britain's railway infrastructure around the clock, all year. Our mission is to connect people and goods efficiently, aiming for a simpler, improved, and environmentally friendly railway system. The North West route encompasses areas from Cheshire through Cumbria, including major cities such as Liverpool and Manchester, and important destinations like Blackpool and the Lake District. Key stations include Crewe, Liverpool Lime Street, Preston, and Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria. This busy corridor carries approximately 1.3 million passengers daily and transports 700,000 tonnes of freight weekly, covering 571 stations which comprise a quarter of the UK's rail network.

At Network Rail North West & Central Region, we strive to build a workforce that mirrors the diversity of the communities we serve. Inclusive teams bring better decision-making, foster innovation, and contribute towards a safer and more accessible railway. We encourage applications even if you do not match every requirement but have the desire to contribute and grow.

Role Responsibilities

As an Off Track Operative, you will work outside alongside a small team to maintain, inspect, and repair areas adjacent to the rail track to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the railway. Tasks include managing vegetation and boundary maintenance. Experience in vegetation and boundary management is preferred but not essential as training will be provided.

You will help sustain the nation’s railways daily, ensuring safety and service efficiency for passengers and freight.

Candidate Expectations and Skills

We value your commitment to continuous learning and provide full training to develop your technical and interpersonal skills. This role is a stepping stone with clear career progression opportunities leading toward technician positions.

Key personal attributes include teamwork, capable of organising and safely managing daily tasks; effective communication skills to coordinate with colleagues and team members; resilience to work outdoors in all weather conditions and remain composed under pressure with nearby train movements; and adherence to safety guidelines, including understanding off-track inspections and maintenance processes. A working knowledge or willingness to learn vegetation management practices is beneficial.

Technical knowledge relative to construction management, systems, and standards is advantageous. It is also desirable to have achieved or be working toward an NVQ level 2 or equivalent qualification in a relevant field or possess equivalent experience.

Additional Information and Conditions

• Shifts involve varying patterns including days, nights, and weekends.
• Outdoor work is constant, requiring comfort in various weather conditions.
• Employment offers are contingent on passing drug and alcohol testing, medical examinations including eyesight and hearing, and pre-employment security checks.
• A valid category B driving licence is required to operate Network Rail vehicles.
• Applicants should reside within a 60-minute commute of Preston, England.
• There might be requirements to work on-call if opting for a standard maintenance contract.
• Network Rail is an inclusive employer committed to supporting disabled employees and fostering an equitable work environment.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting salary of £32,639 under Maintenance Terms & Conditions, with additional pay for overtime, weekend work, on-call shifts, and night hours.
• Pro-rata annual leave entitlement of 28 days.
• Access to discounted online shopping and a variety of offers, including childcare vouchers, cycle to work schemes, healthcare memberships, and other perks.
• Up to 75% subsidies on rail and underground season tickets.
• 75% discount on leisure travel.
• Options of contributory pension schemes.
• Two weeks paid reserve leave for members of the Armed Forces community.

Recruitment Process

Applications close on 21st September 2026. Assessment centres are scheduled for October. Late applications might not be considered. The recruitment process includes diverse interview panels where possible. All hires must comply with Network Rail's safety vision and standards.