Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development
Network RailRole Overview
Network Rail is hiring a mid-level Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development. This is a contract role in Stafford. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job Description
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.****
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development position at Network Rail?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to Network Rail. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development position at Network Rail located?
This position is based in Stafford. Network Rail has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
What does a Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development at Network Rail earn?
Network Rail has not disclosed a salary range in this posting. Many employers share specifics later in the interview process; you can also ask during a recruiter screen if compensation transparency is important to you.
When was the Operative to Technician ? Signalling & Telecoms Fast Track Development role at Network Rail posted?
This role was posted on April 25, 2026 (55 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
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