We are looking for an Assistant Possession Planner for a short-term (initially 2 months) contract based in South Wales.
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY / TASKS
- Responsibility for the production of project Safe System of Work Packs within time and budget constraints.
- Ensure an authentic zero accident/incident safety culture.
- Plan safe systems of work for designated projects, applying appropriate safety and performance measures within required timescales.
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of SSOW plans.
- Create plans compliant with operational standards, rules, and procedures.
- Attend site to identify risks/hazards, enabling the production of robust SSOW plans.
- Book track access as required through Network Rail's Green Zone Access process.
- Ensure appropriate protection staff and equipment are booked/confirmed within timescales.
- Carry out risk assessments prior to issuing SSOW plans.
- Assist in resolving track access conflicts to deliver the work plan while minimizing commercial risk.
- Identify risks associated with work on or near the line and implement mitigation measures.
- Deliver safe and efficient engineering access, maximizing access opportunities.
- Develop effective working relationships with existing teams, delivery partners, and key stakeholders.
- Support the Head of Infrastructure Access with business requirements as necessary.
- Maintain and hold the appropriate licence for the activities carried out.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Relevant track competencies such as Safe System of Work Planner, COSS, IWA, PTS.
Knowledge & Experience:
- At least 2 years of railway operations experience.
- Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
- Excellent IT skills, especially MS Office.
- Experience performing duties of a COSS.
- Technical competence demonstrated by an appropriate SSOW planner licence.
- Thorough knowledge of the rule book, group standards, and documentation related to possessions, SSOW planning, and electrical isolations.
- Knowledge of railway operating rules, train signalling regulations, and group standards.
- Proficient in SSOW planning tools (including Green Zone Planner, Sectional Appendix, Weekly Operating Notice, Engineering Access Statement, hazard directory, and on-trac/e-pic systems).
- Understanding of operational roles and their impact on engineering access (Signaller, SWL, E/S, COSS).
- Commercial awareness and ability to identify change.
- Full UK driving licence.
Health, Safety & Environmental Responsibilities:
- Lead by example to foster a robust H&S culture.
- Set targets and objectives for H&S and environmental performance for staff, using HSE tools and processes on the BMS.
- Ensure staff are capable and competent for tasks assigned.
- Implement SMO UKI BMS procedures related to manuals, plans, SSOW, and other activities to ensure compliance.
- Communicate and encourage feedback on H&S and environmental issues.
- Take disciplinary action for breaches following the just culture process.
- Investigate accidents/incidents to identify causes and report findings via SMO systems.
- Ensure availability and proper use of H&S equipment.
- Conduct H&S tours or inspections and address deficiencies.
- Stop work if unsafe conditions are identified and report deficiencies involving HSE authorities.
- Promote adherence to business procedures for work control and management.
- Understand and mitigate risks involved in activities under their control.
- Be prepared to manage emergency situations.
- Participate in resolving any work safety issues.
- Maintain competence in managing H&S and environmental responsibilities and support staff in doing the same.