Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development Programme (S&T)

Operative to Technician – Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development Programme (S&T)

Location

Stafford, GB

Department Name

EM HRSS (348103) G5

About Network Rail

Operative to Technician – Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development Programme (S&T)

Assessment Centre: End of May 2026

Start Date: 31st August 2026

Positions available - 6

Locations: Stafford, Stoke, Northampton, Bletchley and Euston.

Looking to accelerate your career? At Network Rail, we offer an exciting opportunity for motivated Operatives to fast-track their career into Technician roles through our Operative to Technician Signalling & Telecoms (S&T) Fast Track Development Programme.

Working on Britain's busiest rail route, you'll be part of a team that supports the West Coast South line—from Crewe to London Euston—serving millions of passengers and transporting 10% of the UK's freight each year.

This is an 18-month contract position, with the clear expectation that upon successful completion, you will transition into a permanent Technician role within the S&T team.

Brief Description

Why Join Our Team?

At Network Rail, you'll be part of a workforce that keeps the country moving. Every day, we connect people, deliver goods safely, and invest in the development of our people.

This programme is designed to develop today's Operatives into tomorrow's skilled Technicians and future Team Leaders, providing a clear and structured career pathway.

About The Role (External)

About the Programme

Throughout the programme, you will build comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience across Signalling & Telecoms, including:

• Manual, electrical, and digital signalling systems
• Maintenance, installation, testing, and fault-finding
• Safety-critical railway operations

You will also work towards achieving an IRSE Licence, demonstrating your competence in a safety-critical environment.

About The Role

Carry out work safely and efficiently, following all procedures, standards, and company policies. Complete only tasks you are trained and competent to perform, as directed. Ensure all vehicles, tools, equipment, and materials are fit for use and handled correctly, while actively contributing to your own development.

What You'll Gain:

• Continue in your current Operative role while developing new technical skills
• Structured, hands-on learning in real working environments
• Full support towards achieving your IRSE Licence
• A clear progression route into Technician and future leadership roles

Salary

• Operative: £38,482
• Technician (upon successful completion): £45,669

Are You the Right Fit?

Key Skills:

• Strong teamwork and collaboration
• Leadership potential and initiative
• Clear and effective communication
• Proactive planning and problem-solving
• Adaptability in outdoor, all-weather environments
• Commitment to safety and high standards

Requirements

• Available to start on 31st August 2026
• Background in electrical, signalling, or engineering environments
• Full UK Category B manual driving licence
• Flexibility to work shifts, including nights and weekends

Additional Information

As this is a structured development programme, annual leave must be taken during the designated periods.

• 19 th October 2026 – 30 th October 2026
• 21 st December – 29 th January 2026
• 15 th March – 16 th April 2027
• 7 th June – 30 th August 2027
• 25 th October – 19 th November 2027
• 20 th December – 21 st January 2027
• Travel required to training hubs in London, Bletchley, and Walsall (costs covered)
• Permanent Technician role offered upon successful completion

Join a team that values your growth, prioritises safety, and provides real opportunities to progress into technical and leadership roles.

How To Apply (External)

Salary:

• Operative: £38,482
• Technician (upon successful completion): £45,669

Closing date: 08/05/26. - Late applications will not be accepted.

Click apply now to apply.

What does our recruitment process look like?

• Once you have applied, our Recruitment Specialist will look at your CV.
• If your experience matches what we're looking for, you'll be invited to an interview

You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.

Network Rail Benefits - To find out about what benefits we offer, click here

All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information

• Some of our roles require face to face Drugs & Alcohol testing. Further details will be shared with you as part of your formal offer.****