Operative - Rail Testing

Network Rail; Greater London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading rail infrastructure organization is seeking an Operative to join the Rail Testing team at Hither Green. The position involves the daily upkeep of the rail network, particularly during night shifts. Responsibilities include conducting manual work, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety around high-speed trains. Candidates should be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions and have experience in safety-critical environments. Proactive team players with good communication skills are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in a safety-critical environment.
• Willingness to work shifts, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Conduct demanding manual work across challenging terrain.
• Maintain equipment and perform lookout duties for safety.
• Check and prepare van and equipment before shifts.

Skills

Teamworking

Communication

Proactive planning

Working under pressure

Following rules and instructions

Willingness to learn

Experience in a safety‑critical environment

Job description

Location: Hither Green, GB

About the Role

Network Rail is looking for an Operative to join the Rail Testing team at Hither Green. The role involves daily upkeep of the rail network, working in a small team to support essential maintenance so the railway runs safely and smoothly for passengers and freight users. The Operative will specialise in Rail Testing, typically working overnight shifts and operating in all weather conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct demanding manual work, often requiring transport of kit across challenging terrain.
• Maintain equipment, perform lookout duties, and keep the team safe around moving trains traveling at high speed.
• Check and prepare the van and equipment before each shift, and travel the team from site to site.
• Work safely and respectfully, following rules and procedures, while maintaining a calm, professional approach even under pressure.

Qualifications & Skills

• Teamworking – depend on others and work closely with the team to deliver safe, efficient work.
• Communication – good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proactive planning – be punctual, ready with van and equipment, and anticipate team needs.
• Working under pressure – calm in all conditions with trains passing nearby.
• Following rules and instructions – respect safety rules and confidently challenge unsafe situations.
• Willingness to learn – develop skills and stay up-to-date with new standards, procedures, and instructions.
• Experience in a safety‑critical environment.
• Willing and able to work shifts, including days, nights, and weekends.
• A team player.
• Keen to develop new skills.
• Good communication skills, both in person and in writing.

Shift Pattern

Operatives work a changing pattern of days, nights, and weekends. The role requires availability for night shifts as most hours are overnight.

Additional Requirements

• Outdoor working – comfortable working in all weather conditions.
• Safe working – subject to drug and alcohol testing and medical assessment including hearing and eyesight checks.
• Driving – ability to hold a Category B driving licence to operate Network Rail vehicles.
• Commute – must be within a 60‑minute commute of the Hither Green location.