Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Programme Management Team



GRADE: ML2/SB2



SALARY: 70,000 - 80,000



ROLE TYPE: Hybrid



LOCATION: York/Manchester


HOURS: 37 per week





Are you a strategic thinker with deep operational rail experience and a passion for infrastructure transformation? We're looking for a Senior Operations Manager (Infrastructure Projects) to lead operational change across Northern's network, ensuring safety, compliance, and performance are at the heart of every infrastructure development.





This is a high-impact role where you will work closely with Network Rail and other external industry partners such as RSSB and inclusive of internal stakeholders to shape the future of railway operations in line with future infrastructure developments, including the introduction of new technologies like ETCS and electrification schemes.

What You'll Be Doing

Lead Northern's operational input into infrastructure projects, ensuring safety, performance, and flexibility are prioritised. Act as the key interface with Network Rail and industry bodies on signalling, operational interfaces, and new technologies by supporting and developing signalling design. Influence infrastructure design to optimise capacity, signal placement, and compatibility with rolling stock. Develop and deliver operational change briefings and route training for traincrew and station staff. Validate safety and operational readiness for infrastructure schemes and drive continuous improvement post-implementation. Ensure that the needs of Northern's passengers are central to every decision made in the planning, preparation, and delivery of all major infrastructure programmes.

About You

You have at least 5 years' managerial experience in railway operations, with a strong understanding grasp of Industry safety standards and signalling systems inclusive of design specification. You hold relevant qualifications including NEBOSH Certificate, A1/A2 Competence Assessor, and Safety Auditor accreditation. You bring practical experience in train crew roles or hold a driving Cab Pass, demonstrating deep operational knowledge. You're a confident communicator and influencer, with strong analytical skills and the ability to manage complexity under pressure. You're passionate about fostering a proactive safety culture and driving operational excellence across infrastructure projects.

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 up to 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.

Holiday Purchase Scheme:

Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.

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.





Please note: We may close recruitment early if we receive a high volume of applications.