Train Controller

Together we move what matters

We are at the start of something powerful. Heavy Haul Rail was created with a simple but transformative belief: the UK deserves a smarter cleaner more resilient freight future. And we have the opportunity to build it.

Every role in this business carries purpose. Whether you work in operational delivery driving trains engineering or business support the work you do contributes directly to reducing emissions easing road congestion strengthening supply chains and powering British industry. This is meaningful work with real impact.

Previously operating as Freightliners Heavy Haul business we are now an independent company following CMA CGM Groups acquisition of Freightliner UKs Intermodal Logistics business in January 2026.

Heavy Haul Rail is the UKs next-generation rail freight partner built for a sector ready to evolve. We believe its time to move differently. Congested roads rising emissions fragile supply chains. These arent just logistical challenges; theyre environmental and economic wake-up calls. Were here to lead the modal shift helping businesses transition from road to rail with confidence clarity and measurable impact.

We move 17 million tonnes of freight a year for customers in the industrial energy and construction markets. The company operates 95 locomotives and over 1000 wagons. Heavy Haul Rails team of 950 supports customer deliveries to over 100 locations across the UK running 250 trains per week.

Heavy Haul Rail also supports the renewal and maintenance of the rail infrastructure and supports passenger train operators and rolling stock companies including the provision of drivers and route conducting services.

But none of this happens without us its people.

Join our team:
Train Controller

What Youll Do

As a Train Controller you will be at the heart of our operation making real-time decisions that keep freight moving across the UK. Working in a fast-paced Control environment youll coordinate trains locomotives and traincrew resources respond to disruption and ensure services are delivered safely and efficiently.

This is a role for someone who thrives on challenge enjoys problem solving and can make informed decisions under pressure while maintaining a relentless focus on safety and customer service.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing the real-time operation of Heavy Haul Rail services across the network.

• Delivering the daily train and locomotive plan while balancing safety performance and commercial priorities.

• Monitoring train performance and identifying opportunities to minimise delays and disruption.

• Managing locomotives traincrew and operational resources to ensure services are delivered effectively.

• Responding to incidents resource shortages and unplanned events implementing solutions quickly and effectively.

• Working closely with Network Rail train operators depots and customers to maintain service performance.

• Leading the operational response during periods of disruption and supporting the restoration of normal service.

• Communicating service impacts and operational updates to key stakeholders.

• Maintaining detailed operational records logs and incident reports.

• Ensuring working time fatigue and safety requirements are always met.

• Supporting incident management statutory reporting and post-incident arrangements where required.

What Were Looking For

Were looking for a confident and resilient operational professional who can remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.

Youll ideally have:

• Experience with in railway operations.

• Good railway geographical knowledge.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

• The ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively during disruption and emergency situations.

• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

• Good IT and systems capability.

• Knowledge of train planning processes and railway performance management.

• An understanding of locomotive deployment and maintenance considerations.

• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to analyse information quickly and accurately.

Your Behaviours

Youll be successful in this role if you:

• Demonstrate Heavy Haul Rails values in everything you do.

• Put safety at the centre of every decision.

• Bring drive energy and enthusiasm to achieving objectives.

• Remain composed and professional under pressure.

• Build positive relationships and communicate effectively with colleagues customers and stakeholders.

• Work collaboratively whilst taking ownership and accountability for outcomes.

• Embrace innovation continuous improvement and new technologies.

• Maintain the highest levels of confidentiality trust and professionalism.

• Take a customer-focused approach and understand the importance of delivering a reliable service.

• Show resilience adaptability and a willingness to support operational requirements when needed.

This post is subject to standard pre-employment checks including employment references medical & D&A…