Mathematical Modeller

Network Rail; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible/hybrid working arrangements

Generous annual leave

Discounts at stations with NetworkRail

Defined benefit pension scheme

75% subsidy on train tickets

Interest‑free travel loan

Volunteer leave

Job summary

Network Rail seeks a curious and analytical professional to join the Advanced Analytics team. You will work with engineers to understand railway assets, analyse large datasets, and develop predictive models that inform investment and maintenance decisions across the network.

The role emphasizes problem solving, collaboration, and innovative data approaches, with opportunities for training and progression within a leading national railway organisation.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in a numerate discipline.
• Experience working in a peer reviewed environment.
• Ability to work to demanding timescales and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Analyse data to uncover insights and develop models for asset performance.
• Collaborate with engineering specialists to understand railway assets and data sources.
• Design and build mathematical models to inform investment and maintenance decisions across the network.
• Produce clear, well‑structured documentation and communicate methodologies to stakeholders.

Skills

Python

R

C#

VBA

Education

PhD in numerate discipline or equivalent (physics, applied mathematics, engineering, statistics)

Job description

Location: There is an expectation of 3 or more days per week at a Network Rail office, with the primary office being in Milton Keynes where the team is based. This will include a reasonable amount of face-to-face training with the team, primarily based at Milton Keynes, with consideration for a portion of time at alternative Network Rail offices (e.g. in London, Birmingham or Manchester). Once the candidate is established in the role and able to work independently, there is potential for greater flexibility.

Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway.

We’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support.

If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Some of our great benefits:

• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.
• Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
• Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.
• Defined benefit pension scheme
• 75% subsidy on train tickets.
• Interest‑free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
• Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.

About the role

What does the average day look like?

Every day brings something different. You'll work alongside engineering specialists to understand how railway assets perform, analyse data to uncover insights, and develop models that help shape investment and maintenance decisions across the network.

It's a role that combines problem-solving, collaboration and innovation, with the opportunity to make a real impact on the future of Britain's railway.

A little bit about the team...

The Advanced Analytics team sits within the Technical Authority. Amongst other responsibilities, we own and manage the development of whole lifecycle forecasting models of railway assets (such as track, signalling systems and bridges).

These models are used to help plan the spending requirements of future Funding Periods by estimating the impact on asset condition of different funding scenarios.

Next Steps

CV shortlisting will take place after the advert closes, with interviews planned from the week commencing 9 th & 16 th November, subject to business needs. Early applications are encouraged, as we may close the advert early due to high application volumes.

We encourage you to review our Safety Vision , as safety is an important part of the culture at Network Rail

We're looking for a curious and analytical individual with an interest in engineering systems, data, and modelling.

The ideal candidate will have experience of working with large datasets, developing model prototypes using coding languages such as Python, R, C# or VBA, and applying statistical techniques to solve complex problems.

You will be able to design and build mathematical models, produce clear and well‑structured documentation, and communicate technical methodologies and results effectively to a range of stakeholders, including those with limited modelling knowledge. While experience in all these areas is not essential, a willingness to learn and develop new skills is key.

• PhD in numerate discipline or equivalent experience e.g. physics, applied mathematics, engineering, statistics and data science
• Experience of working in a peer reviewed environment
• Experience of working to demanding timescales