Network Rail
Operative (Overhead Lines)
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Who We Are
Network Rail operates and maintains the railway infrastructure. Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We're an organisation where people matter. When you're part of our team, you matter to us and you matter to millions.
In the North West & Central Region, we're proud to be building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive. Different perspectives help us make better decisions, drive innovation and deliver a safer, more accessible railway for our passengers and communities.
Even if you don't meet every single requirement of the job. If you're passionate about making a difference and you believe you have the skills, potential and ambition to succeed, we want to hear from you. Find out more about our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Network Rail here: Equity, diversity and inclusion - Network Rail.
Our Route
Central Route is at the heart of Britain's railway, connecting people, communities and businesses across the country. From the busy commuter routes of Birmingham to the vital links between the West Midlands and London, our network helps hundreds of thousands of passengers travel safely and reliably every week, while supporting the movement of freight that keeps the UK economy moving. Home to Birmingham New Street, the busiest station outside London, Central Route plays a critical role in connecting England, Scotland and Wales. Whether it's helping someone get to work, visit loved ones or access new opportunities, everything we do helps keep people and communities connected.
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About The Role
Our Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) team maintains the overhead line equipment that supplies power to trains. This is a hands-on role working outdoors as part of a team responsible for inspecting, maintaining and renewing railway infrastructure.
As an OLE Operative, you'll support experienced Technicians and Team Leaders while learning the skills needed to build a career in railway electrification. Working with high-voltage equipment, you'll help ensure the railway has the power it needs to keep trains moving. Working at height is a routine part of the role, using specialist tools and equipment to inspect, measure, adjust, repair and maintain the overhead cables and infrastructure that keep Britain's railway running.
You'll receive full training and support as you develop practical skills and gain experience in a safety-critical environment.
Safety and teamwork are central to the role, it is important that you're able to follow procedures, work closely with colleagues and maintain high safety standards.
The role involves a mixture of day, night and weekend shifts, helping us maintain the railway around the clock. Rosters are provided in advance so you can plan your time around family, friends and personal commitments.
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You'll also need to be comfortable working outdoors throughout the year and in all weather conditions.
This is an excellent opportunity to start a career in the railway industry, with opportunities to develop your skills and progress as your experience grows.
Please note: Due to the nature of the role, you must live within a 60-minute travel time of the location stated in this advert.
Other Information
- Salary: £32,639 per annum
- Closing date: 19/10/2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
- Want to find out more about what fantastic benefits we offer? Click here
- All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of a range of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
- We're a Disability Confident Leader employer and we'll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.
Your Experience And Skills
What we're looking for
Role
We're looking for someone who is motivated by making a real impact and thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. To succeed in this role, you'll bring:
- Able to work as part of team.
- Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
- Hold and retain competencies relevant to this post, required by the business need.
- Ideally hold (or be working towards) an NVQ 1 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.
- Able and willing to drive vehicles as required by business need.
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