Overview
Location: York, GB
Department: OA Liability Negotiator (118701) G4
Job Title: Liability Negotiations Researcher
Role Type: Full Time, Secondment/FTC until 31 March 2026
Closing date: 3 October 2025 (note: this posting is expired as of today)
Brief Description
The role of Liability Researcher involves reading and interpreting historic records dating back to the 1800s to understand Network Rail's legal responsibilities for infrastructure. The Researcher will also conduct research from sources such as case law, old plans and textbooks to support the team in reducing liability and expenditure and defending the Company in public inquiries for claims for public rights of way. The role includes leading a workstream identifying ownership and liability for outside party owned assets interfacing with the railway, interpreting legal agreements and communicating their contents. Liaising with internal and external parties, and collating responses into a database to track progress is required. The Liabilities team handles a wide range of activities from closure of level crossings to addressing pigeon nuisance complaints, requiring the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines. A foundational knowledge of statutory, contractual and property law is essential; a background in English language, history or public rights of way is advantageous.
Key Accountabilities
* Carry out Parliamentary and Liability research to support statutory and contractual advice for Network Rail infrastructure, informing maintenance and renewal obligations in law.
* Update, verify and manage liability data in Network Rail work banks and databases.
* Support opportunities and methods to reduce or eliminate Network Rail's obligations to renew or maintain infrastructure.
* Support negotiations with external parties for reduction of liabilities and completion of appropriate documentation.
* Support progressing opportunities for the closure or reduction in status of level crossings.
* Provide advice to protect railway infrastructure assets from unauthorised or unlawful activities by adjoining owners/occupiers.
* Proactively seek knowledge of railway engineering through coaching, training, personal research and attendance at relevant professional meetings.
Qualifications
* Essential: HNC/HND or equivalent in a relevant subject
* Essential: Fundamental knowledge of statutory, common contractual and property law
* Essential: Good communications and interpersonal skills
* Essential: Significant knowledge and application of Microsoft Office suite
* Desirable: Degree or equivalent qualification
* Desirable: Junior membership of an appropriate professional body
Applying and Benefits
Please note: Applicants must provide proof of essential qualifications/competencies or demonstrate active progress toward obtaining them, or evidence applicable experience as a condition of employment. Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and supports flexible working. We offer a range of employee benefits including but not limited to 28 days annual leave + bank holidays, pension options, performance-related pay, and season ticket subsidies. Pre-employment checks apply, including identity and right to work verification. This is an FTC position until 31 March 2026.
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