Job Description

RAMS Engineer (Train Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety)

Location: Manchester, Leeds & York

Salary: 60K

When people step onto a Northern train, they trust us to get them where they need to be - safely, reliably, and on time. That trust comes from the work of our engineers behind the scenes, who keep our fleet performing at its best. As a RAMS Engineer, you'll be central to that mission, making sure our trains are not only running smoothly today but set up to succeed tomorrow.



Working within our central engineering function, you'll be the go-to technical consultant for Train Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety (RAMS). Your expertise in electrical, electronic, mechanical, or maintenance engineering will help us solve complex problems, enhance systems, and bring new technology into play. Every investigation you carry out and every project you deliver will directly impact the journeys of thousands of people across the North.

What you'll be doing

Leading technical investigations and resolving complex engineering faults to improve fleet performance. Acting as a technical consultant to depot and Train Control Centre (TCC) teams, sharing knowledge and supporting decision-making. Driving improvements in reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety to support business objectives such as 90/2 performance. Supporting the integration of new systems and technology, keeping Northern at the forefront of industry developments. Optimising maintenance strategies to make sure our engineering practices are as effective and efficient as possible. Delivering engineering change projects that bring lasting benefits to our trains and our customers.

About you

Degree-level qualification in Engineering (or equivalent experience). Strong background in electrical, electronic, or mechanical engineering, ideally within rail or a safety-critical industry. Experience in reliability, maintainability, and safety engineering principles. Analytical skills to investigate issues and deliver practical, effective solutions. Confidence communicating technical information clearly to different audiences. A proactive approach - always looking for ways to make things safer, smarter, and more reliable.

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.