All aboard Northern! – Ready to keep our TrainCare Centre running safely and efficiently?

Join our Engineering team as a Depot Support Operative where you’ll play a key role in keeping our depot’s operations safe, smooth, and on track. Imagine yourself coordinating vital operational safety tasks and supporting the safe movement of our trains – all to help Northern connect people and communities across the North.

This role isn’t just about operational tasks – it’s about ensuring safety, reliability, and an exceptional experience for our passengers.

Are you confident in:

• Setting up and Managing Safe Systems of Work? Acting as the designated person on duty, you’ll make sure our standard operating procedures are implemented to keep everyone safe.
• Supporting Depot Operations? Overseeing critical tasks, like fuelling, water replenishment, and carrying out CET duties, to ensure our rolling stock is ready for action.
• Maintaining Depot Safety Standards? You’ll assist with applying and removing the depot shed road protection system and lead with nose end cleaning tasks to maintain cleanliness and safety.

Are you:

• Methodical and Safety-Conscious? Your systematic approach to safety in a critical environment will be crucial to success in this role.
• Independent and Self-Driven? Able to take initiative in a fast-paced, varied work setting where no two days are the same.
• Experienced in Rail or Depot Operations? Previous experience is advantageous, but not essential – full training will be provided.

To manage expectations, if you are successful your application could be held on our files for up to 9 months, and will be considered for any upcoming vacancies.

Please note this role is safety critical and is subject to Rail Safety & Standards Board (RSSB) regulations. You MUST meet the following criteria for this position, or your application will be automatically rejected:

• Currently live within a 45-minute car journey from the TrainCare Centre you work from.
• Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
• Pass the safety critical medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening.
• Have no defective colour vision.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B - we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.