Operative [Track Maintenance]

Network Rail; Woking; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous annual leave

Defined benefit pension

Rail season ticket subsidy

Leisure travel discount

Flexible/hybrid working

Job summary

Network Rail in the United Kingdom is seeking a Track Maintenance Operative to help keep the railway safe, reliable, and ready for millions of passengers daily. You'll work across the network performing essential maintenance and repairs to keep track in top condition, including fix faults and respond to urgent tasks.

No rail experience is required; training will be provided. This safety-critical role requires comfort with day, night and weekend shift patterns and a strong safety mindset.

Qualifications

• Team player with great communication skills.
• Punctual and proactive, always ready for the next job.
• Calm under pressure and safety-focused.
• Willing to learn and grow.
• Full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Repair and maintain: Carry out essential track maintenance, inspections, and repairs to keep the network running safely.
• Travel to sites: Work across different locations as maintenance needs arise.
• Work outdoors: In all weather conditions, day or night you'll help keep the railway safe and operational.
• Prioritise safety: Support safe working practices, including lookout duties and following all safety procedures.
• Support the wider team: Assist with fault finding, inspections, and emergency repairs when required.

Skills

Team player

Communication skills

Punctual

Calm under pressure

Willing to learn

Driving licence (UK)

Job description

Who We Are

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 parts of the railway. Our teams keep some of the UK¿s most vital passenger and freight routes moving every single day. This is a place where collaboration, innovation, and resilience are key and where your contribution will directly impact millions of journeys. We are entering an exciting new chapter as we integrate with train operating companies under one national leadership, creating even greater opportunities to shape the future of rail. From supporting major modernisation programmes to improving performance for local communities and enhancing safety across complex operational environments, Southern offers a fast-paced, rewarding environment to grow your career and make a real difference.

Operative Track Maintenance: Help Keep the Railway Moving!

Location: Woking

Contract Type: Permanent

Salary: Standard Maintenance Contract - £32,639 + Location Allowance or IMC20 ( If on a current maintenance contract) £29611 + Location Allowance

Shift Pattern: Days, Nights & Weekends (Safety-Critical Role)

Looking for a role where your work truly matters? As a Track Maintenance Operative, you'll play a vital part in keeping the railway safe, reliable, and ready for the millions of passengers who depend on it every day. You'll work across the network, carrying out essential maintenance and repairs to ensure the track remains in top condition. Whether you're fixing faults, preventing issues before they arise, or responding to urgent tasks, you'll be making a real impact. No rail experience? That's absolutely fine. Bring your enthusiasm, teamwork, and willingness to learn and we'll provide all the training you need to build a successful career in rail maintenance.

About The Role

What You'll Do

• Repair and maintain: Carry out essential track maintenance, inspections, and repairs to keep the network running safely.
• Travel to sites: Work across different locations as maintenance needs arise.
• Work outdoors: In all weather conditions, day or night you'll help keep the railway safe and operational.
• Prioritise safety: Support safe working practices, including lookout duties and following all safety procedures.
• Support the wider team: Assist with fault finding, inspections, and emergency repairs when required.

Your Experience And Skills

What you'll need

• Team player with great communication skills.
• Punctual and proactive always ready for the next job.
• Calm under pressure and safety-focused.
• Willing to learn and grow.
• Full UK driving licence.

Why You'll Love It Here

• Impact: Your work keeps Britain moving.
• Training: We'll give you the skills to succeed.
• Career Path: Today's operatives are tomorrow's technicians and leaders.
• Team Spirit: Work with people who care about making a difference.

Important Information

This is a safety-critical role, which means you'll need to pass a medical assessment and be subject to drug and alcohol testing. Your role will involve working days, nights and weekends, so flexibility is necessary.

Drugs And Alcohol Standard

Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.

Why Join us ???

Perks That Pack a Punch

We offer excellent benefits, including:

• Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
• Up to 75% off leisure travel.
• Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
• Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
• Carer's leave to support those who matter.
• Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
• We offer generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees.
• Plus, more....

We're All About Inclusion

We believe diversity drives innovation. Whoever you are, however you identify, wherever you're from - if you've got the skills and the spark, we want you on our team. No suits required. Just bring your authentic self.