Senior Operations Manager - Rail Infrastructure Projects
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Overview
Are you a strategic thinker with deep operational rail experience and a passion for infrastructure transformation? We’re looking for a Senior Operations Manager (Infrastructure Projects) to lead operational change across Northern’s network, ensuring safety, compliance, and performance are at the heart of every infrastructure development. This is a high-impact role where you will work closely with Network Rail and other external industry partners such as RSSB and internal stakeholders to shape the future of railway operations in line with future infrastructure developments, including the introduction of new technologies like ETCS and electrification schemes.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Lead Northern’s 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 Northern’s 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 of Industry safety standards and signalling systems including 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.
* You’re a confident communicator and influencer, with strong analytical skills and the ability to manage complexity under pressure.
* You’re passionate about fostering a proactive safety culture and driving operational excellence across infrastructure projects.
What’s in it for you?
At Northern, we don’t just value our people – we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s 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: 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: Tailored training and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications with enhanced career pathways.
* Recognition: Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards to celebrate employees’ achievements.
Why Northern?
We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. North of England heritage and a forward-looking approach to modern railway travel underscore our mission.
Additional Information
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Management and Manufacturing
* Industries: Rail Transportation
Please note: We may close recruitment early if we receive a high volume of applications. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
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