Operative Off Track

About Network Rail

Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter

At Network Rail, we’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you’re not just part of a team – you’re part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway.

We’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments, learn about our inclusive values.

If you’re ready to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you!

Scotland’s Railway is part of this large family and it covers a large geographical area from the Borders to Thurso at the far tip of the North East of Scotland, accounting for almost 20 per cent of the UK rail network. We provide rapid access along busy commuter routes to our seven cities, servicing the varied needs of our business and leisure commuter services, including cross‑border and rural services.

We have up to 50 freight services operating every day and we are steadily building capacity for this to grow. Our ambition to be responsive to passengers and freight users drives us every day, and we’re empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network. We actively challenge unsafe practices and take responsibility for addressing risks, resolving issues and protecting safety and well‑being.

32k
* starting salary

With a starting salary of 32k
* and no experience needed, a career in Off Track at Network Rail is one that pays. Whether you’re a school leaver, looking for a career change, or returning to work after some time out, we want to hear from you. No skills or qualifications required – here at Network Rail we’re looking for potential.

So, what’s the catch? Life trackside is challenging, it’s physical, you need determination, but the rewards are worth it. Our Off Track Operatives work outdoors and around the clock to maintain drainage, fencing, vegetation and level crossings to help keep Britain’s trains moving. Have you got what it takes?

Internal candidates please see the how to apply section to see the applicable salaries for this role.

As part of the application process, you will be required to complete some pre‑screening questions. Please read each question carefully before responding.

Every single day our rail network carries 18,000 passenger trains and 1,000 freight trains across 10,000 miles of track. Our Off Track Operatives support the maintenance and repair of the lineside assets. The maintenance of these assets is critical to the functioning of the railway by ensuring drainage systems are functioning correctly, signals and track remain clear of vegetation, lineside boundaries are secure and level crossings are in good condition.

Our Off Track Operatives keep all of this in tip‑top condition to keep passengers and freight moving safely and without interruption.

Using a mix of new technology and manual inspection, Network Rail monitors railway assets around the clock. Maintenance teams are briefed at the start of each shift on the maintenance work to be completed.

As this is an entry‑level role, Off Track Operatives support and learn from the Off Track Technicians. This will involve using discipline‑specific tools and plant to maintain lineside assets. Teamwork is a huge part of the job. All Off Track Operatives receive full training and guidance, learning how to use a range of hand tools and heavy machinery safely. Pending successful learning and development, Off Track Operatives can progress to Off Track Technicians.

To reduce disruption to rail services and to increase safety for maintenance teams, this work is often done at night or over weekends. Being able to work a varied shift pattern is important but we will provide your roster 4 weeks in advance so you can make plans with family and friends in good time.

• A full clean driving licence
• Problem solving skills
• Good communication…