Join to apply for the Delay Attribution Controller role at Northern
Introduction
Trains run on time because people like you make sure the details are right. As a Delay Attribution Controller, you’ll be at the heart of our real-time performance investigations – piecing together the story of every delay, making sure responsibility is correctly attributed, and helping us spot patterns so we can prevent problems before they happen.
Location: York
Salary: £56,563.00 per annum
Department: Performance and Planning
What You’ll Be Doing
* Investigating performance incidents on day one, collecting evidence and ensuring accurate attribution in the TRUST system (Train Running System TOPS).
* Negotiating with Network Rail Control to agree causes of delays, raising disputes where needed.
* Providing specialist advice on performance regimes to our Control and Operations teams.
* Supporting Control during major disruption to manage recovery and minimise impact on customers.
* Monitoring delay reports, ensuring data is correct and complete.
* Analysing recurring causes of delay and recommending action plans.
* Producing daily and ad-hoc performance reports.
* Mentoring colleagues and delivering small projects when needed.
About You
This is a role for someone with keen attention to detail and the ability to think logically under pressure. Delay Attribution Controllers follow clear, established guidance – there’s no room for improvisation or “off-script” thinking here, so if you thrive on working to exact standards, you’ll fit right in.
* A solid understanding of passenger train operations, incident management, and the rules and regulations that keep the railway safe.
* Good knowledge of our network’s geography and infrastructure.
* Experience with performance regimes and delay attribution processes.
* The ability to work quickly and logically in high-pressure situations.
* Negotiation skills, patience, and a knack for finding common ground.
* Good IT skills, including experience with industry systems.
You’ll demonstrate these key qualities every day
* Resilience – staying calm and focused under pressure.
* Accountability – owning your work and decisions.
* Honesty – being clear, fair and transparent.
* Team worker – collaborating with colleagues across Northern and beyond.
* Ability to work on your own initiative – stepping in and taking action without prompting.
If you also understand crew conditions of service, have commercial awareness, and know the realities faced by frontline teams, you’ll be set up for success in this role.
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 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: Northern Perks for shopping and wellbeing.
* Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
* Training and Career Development: Tailored training and opportunities for recognised qualifications, plus career pathways across the business.
* Recognition: Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards.
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. With thousands of trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.
A place for everyone: The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview. No matter your background, there’s a place for you here in the railway.
Senioriy level
* Entry level
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries
* Rail Transportation
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