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Overhead Line Operative

On-site in Gateshead·Full-time·Added today (last checked 12 Oct)

Network Rail

103 open roles

Overview

Job details

  • From £32,638 a year

    Gross, as stated in the ad.

    About £2,250 a month after tax.

  • Full-time

    Per the ad.

  • Apply by Friday 16 October

    The date the employer’s listing closes.

Requirements

  • Work on-site in Gateshead

    No relocation package mentioned.

Skills

Nice to have

Requirements

What we're looking for

  • Driving License: Full clean driving license.

  • Medical assessments: Willing to undertake medical assessments, including drug and alcohol testing.

Nice to have

  • HGV licence for overhead line positions

Pay & benefits

What you'll get

We offer a competitive salary and a great range of benefits to support you at work and at home, including:

  • High starting salary: Earn from £32,638 with a clear pathway to £38,482.

  • Exceptional training: Fully funded, structured training programme that focusses on practical trades and advanced skills.

  • Career growth: Start as an Operative with a clear pathway to work towards Technician level.

  • Generous holidays and excellent pension: Join one of the best pension schemes available.

  • Extra earnings: 35-hour workweek with overtime options.

  • Travel benefits: 75% off leisure rail travel for you and your family.

Join us and help deliver the next generation of railway technology, ensuring our infrastructure remains safe, reliable and ready for the future.

The role

Join the best-of-the-best

Are you ready to join the best and brightest in rail engineering? Our Technician Fast Track scheme is an intensive training programme designed for those with the grit, determination and potential to excel in one of the most challenging and rewarding fields. Whether you're a college leaver with a vocational skill, career switcher, or someone looking to restart your career, this is your opportunity to join the best-of-the-best engineering talent.

You'll start as an Operative and be part of a small group who will train together both in the classroom and on work sites to learn all of the skills and competencies needed to progress to Technician level.

Important: Your application will only be considered if you upload your CV and complete the pre-screening questions using the link below: 

Fast Track Technician Pre Screening Questionnaire  

Overhead Line: In teams ranging from two to six people, they ensure the integrity of overhead lines, enabling millions of passengers to travel safely every day. Work includes planned maintenance and rapid response to faults both of which include various safety checks.

Have you got what it takes?

As this is our fast-track programme, we're looking for high calibre candidates with the right mix of ambition, aptitude, and ability in the following areas: 

  • Commitment: Fully committed to completing the full training programme.

  • Growth mindset: Eager to learn and develop new skills.

  • Team player: Work effectively within diverse teams.

  • Safety first: Strong commitment to safety protocols.

  • Stamina: Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.

  • Flexibility: Willing to work varied shifts, including nights and weekends.

Desirable requirements

The programme is fast-paced and it isn't for everyone. We're looking for candidates who are flexible determined and ready to take on a physically demanding and mentally challenging role. 

If you have the potential and the drive, we will provide intensive training and support to help you succeed (it takes between 18 months - two years to reach Technician level). Don't miss this opportunity to start a prestigious career with Network Rail.

Key Dates

  • Assessment Centre: Thursday 22 October 

  • Closing Date: 16 October 2026

Important: Your application will only be considered if you upload your CV and complete the pre-screening questions using the link below: 

Fast Track Technician Pre Screening Questionnaire  

Hiring process

Click 'Apply' to submit your application.

You'll be asked to log in or create an account to get started. Internal candidates can apply via Employee Self Service.

We're here to support you throughout the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments, please contact the recruitment support team at iRecSupport@networkrail.co.uk. You can also visit Evenbreak Careers for additional accessibility support.

About Network Rail

Industry
Transportation

In their own words

About the company & team

Join Network Rail! Where People and Connections Matter

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team- you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. 

We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. 

Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision.

Additional information

Research suggests that individuals from underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a job if they don't meet all the listed criteria. We are building a diverse and inclusive place to work where people of all backgrounds can thrive. We encourage you to apply for this role. If this isn't the job for you, there may be other roles available in the wider team. 

Apply now and start your journey with us. Together, we will keep Britain moving safely and efficiently. 

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