ERTMS Lead Operations Specialist
Location: Manchester/Crewe (Hybrid)
Are you an Ex Train Driver looking for a technical role?
GTS Transportation is proud to be partnering with a leading UK and European rail operator as they embark on an exciting digital transformation programme. We are seeking an ERTMS Lead Operations Specialist to support the delivery of the UK’s next generation of digital signalling capability.
This is a rare opportunity to take a central operational role within a high-profile ERTMS/ETCS programme, helping to redefine how freight services are delivered across the network. If you thrive at the intersection of operations, safety, and technical change, this role offers a career-defining platform.
The Opportunity
As the Lead Operations Specialist, you will drive the operational strategy, assurance, and readiness activities that underpin the organisation’s migration to digital signalling. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, industry partners, regulators, and frontline colleagues, you’ll ensure the programme delivers safe, efficient, and future-ready operational solutions.
Your expertise will shape the transition from concept through to deployment—providing the assurance, documentation, and operational leadership required for a smooth introduction of ERTMS across the fleet and network.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead operational input into all stages of the ERTMS programme, from early design through to operational roll-out.
* Review and challenge First-in-Class (FiC) designs to ensure safe, practical operational performance.
* Apply your ERTMS/ETCS knowledge to system design, testing, verification, and operational integration.
* Develop and contribute to operational safety documentation including safety cases, hazard assessments, hazard logs, HazIDs, SVP submissions, and supporting assurance evidence.
* Lead operational risk assessments using CSM-RA principles, ensuring hazards are fully controlled and assured.
* Represent the organisation in discussions with industry partners and key stakeholders including regulators, unions, infrastructure managers, and OEMs.
* Support the evolution of operational standards, policies, and processes in readiness for ERTMS/ETCS operation.
* Lead operational planning for Defect-Free Operations and Putting-into-Use activities.
* Oversee operational change management, competence frameworks, and readiness plans.
* Manage project documentation, progress reporting, and risk/issue escalation.
* Lead and develop a team of ERTMS Operations Specialists.
What You’ll Bring
* Qualified Train Driver or relevant operational competence (3–5 years’ experience in driving or driver management).
* Proven leadership in operational delivery within signalling, technical transformation, or complex rail programmes.
* Strong knowledge of ERTMS/ETCS and digital signalling principles.
* Familiarity with rail safety legislation, frameworks, and methodologies (CSM-RA, ROGS, RIR, ALARP, etc.).
* Excellent understanding of UK rail operations, freight or infrastructure preferred.
* Skilled communicator with the ability to influence and build strong relationships across technical and operational teams.
* Experience of operational change, training development, and readiness planning.
* Analytical thinker with resilience and the ability to work under pressure.
Desirable Qualifications
* Railway Operations Management qualification (e.g., ILM, IRSE).
* Training or certification in CSM-RA or safety/assurance disciplines.
* Experience of ETCS L-NTC/Level 2 or other digital signalling environments.
* Understanding of Human Factors and safety management systems.
* Project management or systems engineering qualifications (e.g., APM).
* Degree or equivalent experience in rail operations or related field.
To apply please send your CV to alice.w@gts-search.com