Dispatcher

Job Description

Take control of the platform – and your career

Are you calm under pressure, quick-thinking, and ready to take command of critical moments? Join us as a Train Dispatcher and play a vital role in the safe and efficient movement of trains across the network

-Please note, this is a talent pool exercise , so if successful you will be placed for later vacancies

Does this sound like you?

What you’ll be doing:

• Dispatching trains safely and punctually from station platforms
• Communicating clearly with train crews, station staff, and control rooms
• Monitoring train movements and responding quickly to disruptions or changes
• Ensuring safety protocols are followed at all times
• Delivering excellent customer service and information, especially during delays

🔍 What we’re looking for:

• Strong communication and decision-making skills
• Ability to stay calm, focused, and accurate in a fast-paced environment
• Good awareness of safety procedures and regulations (training provided)
• Flexibility to work shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays Previous rail, transport, or safety-critical experience is a bonus – but not essential

The best bit....Our Benefits

Because we value our people and reward hard work, we’ve created a benefits package that we think you’ll love. So, you’ll be able to make the most of:

• Opportunities to progress and grow - including comprehensive training schemes and a range of online learning courses.
• Full Uniform for Frontline Facing Roles - our frontline people are the face of the business, so we provide you with a stylish and high-quality uniform.
• Cycle to Work Scheme - save up to 42% on the cost of a bike, while also spreading your payments throughout the year.
• Free Travel on Northern services - everyone who works at Northern, plus their partners/spouses and dependents, can travel for free right across our full network of services. *Certain eligibility criteria will apply.
• Employee Assistance Programme - advice, support and useful information 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on everything from family issues to lifestyle matters.
• Exclusive benefits with Northern Perks - enjoy retail discounts, instant vouchers, cashback, wellbeing support and much more.

You can find out more here.

Please note that Northern reserves the right to close recruitment for this role before the published closing date if high volumes of applications are received.

£26,129

However, if you miss the application window for this particular role, please keep checking back for other opportunities. We are always on the lookout for great people to join the Northern Team!

*All Our Offers are subject to passing a medical

We’re an equal opportunities employer and a promoter of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, sex, ethnicity, race, religion, education, socioeconomic background, disability, or sexual orientation.

We also have Disability Confident status, which means we’re committed to making the most of the talents that disabled people can bring to the workplace.

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.