Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION:

Engineering

GRADE:

ML1/SB3

SALARY:

Circa 59,000 per annum

ROLE TYPE:

On Site

HOURS:

37 per week



Every day, millions of people rely on Northern to get them where they need to be. From morning commutes to weekend adventures, our trains are part of the North's daily rhythm and keeping them moving safely is where you'd make your mark.



As a Maintenance Controller, you'd be right at the heart of the action, working with our Control team and TrainCare Centres (TCCs) to make sure our fleet stays healthy and ready to run. From spotting potential issues before they become problems to getting failed units back on track quickly, you'd play a key role in minimising disruption and delivering a service our customers can count on.

What you'll be doing

Leading the daily process of monitoring fleet health, making sure trains are ready for service in their best possible condition. Using remote condition monitoring systems to identify issues early and coordinating with fleet planning, TCCs, and station staff to resolve them. Recording all defects accurately and sharing timely information to keep everyone in the loop. Providing technical guidance to colleagues and supporting the wider team. Working closely with train crew to prioritise maintenance and respond quickly to reported faults. Travelling on trains with persistent issues and attending failures in service when needed.

About you

Problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure - that's three things you'll bring. You'll also need:


A Level 3 NVQ in engineering, a recognised apprenticeship, or higher. Practical experience of working with railway fleets - ideally Northern's and third-party trains too. A strong engineering background, with confidence in diagnosing and fixing problems. The ability to take the lead, set targets, and use your initiative when situations arise. Great communication skills to explain technical information clearly and build strong working relationships. Flexibility to work shifts, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and bank holidays.

This role is safety critical, so you'll need to complete a medical assessment covering general health, vision, hearing, colour vision, and drugs and alcohol testing.

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: 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. 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 you're in. Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That's why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

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 2,500 trains running daily, we're on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.



Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we're celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.



At Northern, we don't just move people from A to B - we're building a team where everyone feels they belong. 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.



We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.



No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob... there's a place for you here in the railway.