Fuelling and Tanking Operative

Job Description

£28,228.00 per annum
Location: Neville Hill Depot

Behind every reliable journey is a team making sure each train is ready to roll. At Neville Hill Depot, you’d play a key part in that process. This is not a typical cleaning role. It is about preparing, protecting and presenting our trains so they leave the depot safe, fuelled, serviced and spotless.

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. As part of our depot team, you’d help make that happen. Working closely with the Reception Supervisor, you’ll make sure trains meet the standards our customers and colleagues expect – from refuelling and servicing to supporting the safe movement of vehicles across the depot.

What you’ll be doing

No two shifts are quite the same. On an average day, you’ll:

• Work to the Reception Supervisor’s instructions, carrying out tasks you’re trained and signed off as competent to complete
• Set up and operate depot protection systems as the Designated Person, creating a safe system of work around rail vehicles
• Support the safe movement of trains across the depot
• Carry out train fuelling and Chemical Effluent Tank, known as CET, emptying processes
• Replenish fuel, sand, AdBlue and water on a range of rolling stock
• Support the reservation process and overnight workload targets
• Carry out toilet servicing and light maintenance tasks on train units
• Act as an agent for the console, passing safety critical messages clearly and accurately
• Complete nose end cleaning and general depot cleaning duties
• Support winterisation activities such as gritting and point clearing during severe weather

You’ll receive full training, including Personal Track Safety if required, so you can carry out your duties confidently and safely.

About you

Pride, precision and teamwork – that’s what will set you apart.

You’ll bring:

• A genuine commitment to high standards and safe working
• A sharp eye for detail and pride in a job well done
• The ability to follow instructions carefully and work to clear processes
• Strong team working skills and the confidence to communicate clearly
• Good literacy skills
• Flexibility to move between duties as depot needs change

Experience in cleaning or depot environments is helpful, and COSHH training, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health, would be beneficial – but it is not essential. We’ll give you the training you need to thrive.

What matters most is your reliability, your work ethic and your willingness to learn in a safety critical environment.

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.
• 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, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. 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.