Operations Controller - Talent Pool

Avanti West Coast; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Final salary pension

Free travel for you and dependents

Privilege Travel card 75% off fares

Job summary

Avanti West Coast is seeking an Operations Controller to oversee planning, agreements, and controls for adjusting the train plan. The role focuses on safe, regulatory-compliant operation and optimal fleet use while balancing customer needs and cost implications.

The ideal candidate has Rail industry knowledge, IT systems experience for train ops, and strong problem-solving and communication skills. Training will be provided; be prepared for nights, weekends, and 06:00–22:00 starts.

Qualifications

• Good understanding of the rail industry and passenger train operations.
• Experience in using IT systems to manage train operations.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Ensure continuous planning, agreements, and controls when adjusting the train plan.
• Maximise fleet utilisation while considering customer interests and financial impact.
• Be prepared for 24/7 control posts with shift work including nights and weekends.
• Live within 60 minutes commute of Birmingham New Street.

Skills

Rail operations knowledge

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Tools

TRUST

Tyrell IO

Darwin

Web Gemini

Crews for Genius

Berth Maps

Job description

Working closely with our Train Service Providers, our Operations Controller ensures continuous planning, agreements, and controls are in place when making adjustments to the train plan. This role is crucial for the efficient provision and utilisation of our train fleet, aiming to deliver a safe and regulatory compliant operation. Attention to detail is important, as the role involves maximising fleet utilisation while considering customer interests and the financial impact of decisions.

Ideally, we would like you to have knowledge of our railway computer systems such as TRUST, Tyrell IO, Darwin, Web Gemini, Crews for Genius and Berth Maps, however this is not crucial as training will be given.

Control posts operate 24/7 and require shift work, including nights and weekends. A positive, can-do attitude and strong problem-solving skills are essential.You:

• Must be willing to work nights
• Must be available for 06:00 starts and 22:00 finishes
• Must be available to work weekends
• Must live within 60 minutes commute of Birmingham New Street

To be successful in this role, you must be able to demonstrate:

• Good understanding of the rail industry and passenger train operations
• Experience in using IT systems to manage train operations
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines

Please see the role profile for further information.

If successful, you’ll be placed in ourTalent Pooland offered a position as vacancies arise. Candidates may remain in the pool for up to12 months.

Benefits include:

• Final salary pension
• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you, spouse/partner and dependents
• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

Be You. With Us.

AtAvanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced and everyone is supported to thrive.

We welcome individuals of all races, religions, ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Our goal is to reflect the

communities we serve and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

When you join Avanti West Coast, you become part of a close-knit team that encourages authenticity. We want you to bring your whole self to work. No need to change who you are to fit in.Your individuality is what makes us better.

We celebrate it, we respect it and we put it to great use.