Operative Track Maintenance

About Network Rail

Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure 24/7, 365 days a year. Our purpose is to connect people and goods with where they need to be and our vision is for a simpler, better, greener railway. We are proud to be named as one of the Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equity for the fourth year running. Our North West region covers Cheshire to Cumbria, including key cities such as Liverpool and Manchester, and destinations such as Blackpool and the Lake District.

We build a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve, because inclusive teams make better decisions, drive innovation, and help us create a safer, more accessible railway for everyone.

High Peak, GB

As a railway Operative you will work outdoors as part of a close‑knit team, carrying out essential maintenance on the tracks to keep trains running safely and reliably for both passengers and freight.

There may be a requirement to work on call if you opt to take the Standard Maintenance Contract.

Key responsibilities:

• Maintain, inspect and repair the track network (Permanent Way) to keep the railway safe and efficient.
• Work with rails, sleepers, ballast, drainage, and ancillary structures as required.
• Follow all maintenance standards, procedures and safety instructions.
• Operate within shift patterns that include days, nights and weekends.
• Coordinate and control the safe and efficient delivery of work within the team.
• Communicate clearly with team members and other colleagues to ensure work is completed safely and effectively.

• Team working – Ability to work well as part of a maintenance team.
• Communication – Ability to deliver instructions and receive feedback safely.
• Working under pressure – Maintain composure while working outdoors in all conditions with trains passing nearby.
• Rules and instructions – Knowledge of track inspection, faulting, maintenance and renewal techniques.
• Technical skills – Technical knowledge in the discipline you are applying for; familiarity with construction management processes; NVQ level 2 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject is an advantage.
• Safe behaviour – Demonstrate awareness of Network Rail’s safety vision and commitment to safe working practice.

• Shifts – Changing days, nights and weekends.
• Outdoor working – We work outside in all weathers.
• Safe working – Offers of employment are subject to drug and alcohol testing, medical assessment and BPSS pre‑employment checks.
• Driving – A category B driving licence is required.
• Commute – Applicants must be within a 60‑minute commute of the posting location.

We are a Disability Confident Leader and want to make the most of the skills and talents disabled people bring to the workplace.  for more information.

• Salary: £31,444 plus additional benefits (overtime, weekend, on‑call, night rates)
• Pro‑rata annual leave entitlement
• Discounted online shopping site, childcare vouchers, healthcare offers, cycle‑to‑work scheme, healthcare club discounted membership and other benefits
• Subsidies of up to 75% on rail and underground season tickets
• 75% discount on leisure travel
• Choice of contributory pension schemes
• 2 weeks paid reserve leave for our Armed Forces community

5 th January 2026. Assessment centres will take place in late January. We reserve the right to close the advert early if there is a high number of applicants.