Network Rail
Operative [Rail Testing & Lubrication]
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Operative [Rail Testing & Lubrication]
Rail Testing & Lubrication Operative – Southern Region
Location: Havant Maintenance Depot Contract Type: Permanent Salary:
- £29,611 + location allowance (if on a Network West Rail contract)
- £32,639 + location allowance (Standard Maintenance Contract) Shift Pattern: Days, Nights & Weekends (Safety-Critical Role)
Join the Southern Region – Where Your Work Truly Matters
Covering Wessex, Sussex, and Kent, the Southern Region is one of the busiest and most dynamic areas of the UK railway. Our teams ensure vital passenger and freight routes run smoothly every day. As we integrate under one national leadership, we’re shaping the future of rail—from modernisation projects to enhancing local performance and safety.
This is a fast-paced, rewarding environment where collaboration, innovation, and resilience drive progress. Whether you’re supporting major upgrades, improving journey reliability, or ensuring safety in complex operations, your role will make a tangible difference to millions.
About This Role
Love working outdoors with precision? As a Rail Testing & Lubrication Operative, you’ll be part of the team keeping the railway safe, smooth, and travel-ready. Using specialist equipment, you’ll:
- Inspect rail integrity to prevent faults.
- Apply lubrication to reduce wear and prolong rail life.
- Work in all weather conditions—days, nights, and weekends.
No rail experience needed! We’ll provide full training to develop your skills and launch your career in rail. What matters most? Attention to detail, teamwork, and commitment—we’ll equip you with the rest.
What You’ll Do
- Test and inspect rail tracks using specialist tools to detect faults before they escalate.
- Lubricate and protect rails and track components to minimise friction and extend service life.
- Work outdoors year-round, adapting to changing weather in a hands-on, active role.
- Drive and deliver equipment, ensuring the team’s tools and vehicles are ready when needed.
- Safety-first mindset: Provide lookout duties and strictly follow all operational safety protocols.
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Your Experience and Skills
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking individuals who: ✔ Thrive in a team – Great communication and collaboration skills. ✔ Keep punctual and proactive – Reliable, ready for action at a moment’s notice. ✔ Stay calm under pressure – Safety is non-negotiable; you prioritise it every time. ✔ Willing to learn – Open to training and embracing new challenges. ✔ Hold a full UK driving licence – Key for transporting equipment and tools.
Important Information
⚠️ Essential Details to Note:
- Shifts include nights and weekends – Your role is operational 24/7.
- Outdoor work in all conditions – Prepare for rain, sun, wind, and cold.
- Safety-critical role – Mandatory drugs/alcohol testing, medical checks, hearing, and eyesight tests.
- Must live within 60 minutes of Havant Depot.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
Perks That Pack a Punch
We go above and beyond to support your well-being and career:
- Generous leave: 28 days annual leave (plus statutory days) + flexibility to buy/sell days.
- Secure pension: Defined benefit scheme.
- Travel savings: 75% subsidy on rail/underground season tickets; up to 75% off leisure travel.
- Work-life balance: Hybrid/flexible working options.
- Make a difference: Volunteer leave and carer’s leave.
- Health & fitness: GymPass discounts, cycle-to-work scheme, and a comprehensive healthcare scheme.
- Family-friendly: Extended maternity/paternity/adoption leave.
- More…: Discounts on travel, healthy lifestyle rewards, and professional development opportunities.
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We’re All About Inclusion
At Network Rail, diversity drives innovation. We value every voice—whoever you are, whatever your background, or how you identify. Your authentic self belongs here. No suits, no exceptions—just the skills and passion to contribute.
Your Application
To apply, you’ll share: 📋 Three-year employment history 📎 Your CV (upload during the process)
Disability Support Available We’re a Disability Confident Leader. If you require adjustments—whether for accessibility or support during the application process—please note these in your application.
For more advice, visit Evenbreak’s Career Hive.
Safety and Compliance
Your commitment to safety is non-negotiable. We require all applicants to: ✅ Demonstrate a personal dedication to safety on your application. ✅ Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol tests. A positive result will lead to a 5-year ban from safety-critical roles (including PTS-certified and key safety standards).
All results are securely stored on the Sentinel database.
Ready to Keep the Railway on Track?
Apply today and join a team that values innovation, empowers careers, and makes a real difference—one journey at a time. Your contribution won’t just run the trains; it’ll shape the future of rail in the South.
Network Rail. Building a better railway for the UK.
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