Northern
Depot Support Operative
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£38,120.00 per annum
35 hours per week – On site
People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Behind every reliable journey is a depot team making sure each train is safe, clean and ready to go.
As part of our Engineering team, you’d be at the heart of our TrainCare Centre, helping it run safely and efficiently. You’ll coordinate essential safety processes, support the smooth movement of trains around the depot and make sure everything is set up for the next day’s service.
It’s hands-on, safety-critical work where what you do really matters – not just to colleagues, but to the communities we connect every day.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll play a key role in keeping depot operations safe, organised and on track. That includes:
- Setting up and managing Safe Systems of Work so tasks are carried out safely and correctly
- Acting as the designated person on duty, making sure standard operating procedures are followed
- Supporting the safe movement of trains within the depot
- Overseeing fuelling, water replenishment and Controlled Emission Toilet, known as CET, duties
- Applying and removing the depot shed road protection system
- Leading on nose-end cleaning to maintain safety and presentation standards
- Working closely with engineering colleagues to keep everything running smoothly
This is shift-based work in a busy environment where no two days look the same.
About You
Methodical, safety-conscious and confident taking responsibility – that’s the foundation of this role.
You’ll bring:
- A strong understanding of working safely in a controlled environment
- The confidence to take ownership when you’re the designated person on duty
- The ability to work independently and use your initiative
- A calm, organised approach in a fast-paced setting
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Experience in rail or depot operations would be helpful, but it isn’t essential. Full training will be provided, so what matters most is your attitude, focus and willingness to learn.
Because this role is safety critical and regulated by the Rail Safety and Standards Board, known as RSSB, you must:
- Live within a 45-minute car journey of the TrainCare Centre
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Be able to pass a safety critical medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening
- Have no defective colour vision
If these criteria aren’t met, applications can’t be progressed.
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 up to 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.
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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, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. 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 DBS check and 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.
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