Senior Operations Manager Rail Infrastructure Projects

BUSINESS FUNCTION: ProgrammeManagement Team

GRADE: ML2/SB2

SALARY: 70000 - 80000

ROLE TYPE: Hybrid

LOCATION: York/Manchester

HOURS: 37 per week

Are you a strategic thinker withdeep operational rail experience and a passion for infrastructuretransformation Were looking for a Senior Operations Manager (InfrastructureProjects) to lead operational change across Northerns network ensuringsafety compliance and performance are at the heart of every infrastructuredevelopment.

This is a high-impact role whereyou will work closely with Network Rail and other external industry partnerssuch as RSSB and inclusive of internal stakeholders to shape the future ofrailway operations in line with future infrastructure developments includingthe introduction of new technologies like ETCS and electrification schemes.

What Youll Be Doing

• Lead Northerns operational input into infrastructure projects ensuring safety performance and flexibility are prioritised.
• Act as the key interface with Network Rail and industry bodies on signalling operational interfaces and new technologies by supporting and developing signalling design.
• Influence infrastructure design to optimise capacity signal placement and compatibility with rolling stock.
• Develop and deliver operational change briefings and route training for traincrew and station staff.
• Validate safety and operational readiness for infrastructure schemes and drive continuous improvement post-implementation.
• Ensure that the needs of Northerns passengers are central to every decision made in the planning preparation and delivery of all major infrastructure programmes.

About You

• You have at least 5 years managerial experience in railway operations with a strong understanding grasp of Industry safety standards and signalling systems inclusive of design specification.
• You hold relevant qualifications including NEBOSH Certificate A1/A2 Competence Assessor and Safety Auditor accreditation.
• You bring practical experience in train crew roles or hold a driving Cab Pass demonstrating deep operational knowledge.
• Youre a confident communicator and influencer with strong analytical skills and the ability to manage complexity under pressure.
• Youre passionate about fostering a proactive safety culture and driving operational excellence across infrastructure projects.

Whats init for you

AtNorthern we dont just value our people - we go the extra mile to supportthem. Heres a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you your partner and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing Northern Perks has you covered.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family lifestyle and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business youre in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. Thats why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

WhyNorthern

Were morethan just a train operator. Were the heartbeat of the North connecting communitiescreating opportunities and driving sustainable growth. With 2500 trainsrunning daily were on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance thecustomer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in1825 the first passenger train set off in the North of England after whichrail quickly spread across the globe and this year were celebrating 200years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led ushere we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great BritishRail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in ourjourney.

A place foreveryone

The bestjourneys happen when everyone feels welcome on we dont just move people from A to B were building a team whereeveryone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments tothe process if thats something you need. Were also a Level 2 DisabilityConfident employer so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role wellalways offer an interview. We automateparts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sureevery application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to aDBS check and a medical assessment.

No matteryour background experience or whether you call it a bap barm or cobtheres a place for you here in the railway.

Pleasenote: We may close recruitment early if we receive a high volume ofapplications.