Trainee Engineering Access Planner

About The Role Role Overview

Network Rail – our infrastructure provider, regularly need to take possession of the railway to maintain it. The Trainee Railway Planner role at GBRf provides an introduction to the engineering access process to allow the delivery of engineering works on the rail network.

Over time, your training will help develop a clear process for communicating disruption to all GBRf stakeholders. This will support better planning with GBRf's Planning teams and ensure customers are kept informed in a timely manner. The role is an important part of the long-term strategy for GBRf's Planning Team, which is central to the planning and operation of our rail freight services.

By the end of your training (typically 12–18 months), you will have a good understanding of how a leading UK rail freight company operates. You will learn how engineering work is planned, gain insight into the commercial impact of service disruption, and develop a range of valuable transferable skills, including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

• To support the timetable planning team, who are responsible for adapting train plans around major railway engineering works.
• To assist in producing and maintaining disruption advice to stakeholders.
• To assist with recording and tracking of Network Rail Late Notice possessions as well as communicating this to relevant stakeholders within GBRf.
• To attend meetings to communicate the views of GBRf whilst also developing strong relations with Network Rail and other operators.
• Support the Engineering Access Manager in in any projects to bring improvements to the business

• No previous experience is essential; all necessary training will be provided within the role.
• Interest in the UK rail freight business is desirable.
• Knowledge of national railway Geography is desirable.
• Ability to work both independently and within a team and communicate clearly within the business.
• Ability to prioritise competing demands and meet deadlines.

GB Rail freight are proud to be one of the UK's fastest-growing rail freight companies, recognised for our reliability, growth, and commitment to delivering high-quality service. For over 20 years, we've been so much more than just trains — we're a dedicated team, committed to working together to deliver reliable, sustainable freight services and build strong partnerships across industries nationwide.

When you join GBRf, you become part of a team that truly values its people, works collaboratively, and takes pride in what we do — keeping goods moving through smarter, greener, and more efficient freight solutions.

We pride ourselves on being genuinely value-driven. Our core values guide everything we do, shaping our culture and actions:

• Professionalism – Safety and security are paramount in our business, and we believe this forms the foundation of a high-achieving safety culture.
• Support – We look after our people, and they in turn are encouraged to look after each other.
• Communication – Transparency in our business is valued by both colleagues and customers.
• Trust and Empowerment – We believe openness and honesty create the best relationships, building trust and confidence.
• Enjoyment – Taking pleasure in coming to work at GBRf is actively encouraged, right from the top.

As well as a competitive salary, annual leave package of 25 days plus bank holidays and enrolment into our Industry-Wide Defined Contribution Pension Scheme, we offer:

• A generous healthcare package
• An online benefits portal offering hundreds of discounts at nationwide retailers
• An electric vehicle scheme (available after your first 12 months)
• Regular social events, including days out for you and your family
• Training and development opportunities, including internal courses and external certifications through our industry-renowned development programs. We prioritise your growth in line with our people-centric culture.

At GB Rail freight, we recognise that a more diverse range of people leads to greater innovation. We recruit and develop people best suited to the role requirements, regardless of background.

Our aim is to create a diverse workforce that reflects wider society. We champion diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing in the workplace, in alignment with our values.

If you're as passionate about Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as we are, we invite new employees to join our People and Culture working group and contribute to the ongoing work in this area.