Operations Manager - Infrastructure Projects (TRY)

Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Programmes
SALARY: £ 48,048.00 - 73,490.00 / Grade: ML2: SB1
ROLE TYPE: Permanent Full Time
LOCATION: York/Manchester
HOURS: 37

People across the North depend on a railway that’s safe, reliable and ready for the future, and as Operations Manager you’d play a key part in making that happen as part of our Infrastructure Projects team.

The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is one of the biggest changes happening on our network, and as part of this team you’d help shape how these improvements work in real life – for our colleagues, our customers and the wider industry.

This role sits at the heart of operational change. You’d help turn complex engineering upgrades into clear, safe and workable operating practices. Electrification, new signalling layouts, European Train Control System (ETCS) introduction – you’d be right there, translating major infrastructure development into operational standards that keep services running smoothly and safely. You’d also be the key voice linking Northern with the Network Rail project teams, making sure operational needs are heard early and built into

every stage of TRU.

What you’ll be doing

You’d take the lead in developing and reviewing the operational standards that support major infrastructure change – everything from revised traincrew procedures to how new signalling interfaces are managed day to day.

You’d:

• Develop, review and implement operational and traincrew standards linked to TRU upgrades, including electrification, signalling recontrol and remodelling.
• Monitor how well new operational practices are embedded, making sure changes align with European Technical Standards for Interoperability (TSI) and Railway Industry Standards (RIS).
• Create the technical justifications and risk assessments needed when temporary derogations or non-compliances are required.
• Write operational principles, instructions and safe methods of working for both normal running and out-of-course operations.
• Work closely with colleagues across Northern and with Network Rail to embed changes and ensure they land safely, consistently and on time.
• Shape options for operational change and recommend the most effective, safe and value-for-money approaches.
• Track how new standards and practices perform during trials and after implementation, gathering feedback and identifying improvements.
• Lead the communications and briefing strategy for operational change, including producing material for safety briefs, newsletters, case studies and awareness sessions.
• Act as Northern’s operational liaison with Network Rail – advising on rules, instructions, operating arrangements, signalling interfaces and wider operational design.
• Represent Northern at industry forums and option selection workshops, including supporting signal sighting.
• Develop and manage specialist operational training for driver management and trainers, including route knowledge, dispatch and preparation for ETCS introduction.

About you

You bring deep, hands-on understanding of railway operations and traincrew work – the kind of insight that comes from time spent in a traincrew grade or working closely with those roles.

• A1 and A2 Competence Assessor, Methods of Instruction, NEBOSH Certificate, Safety Auditor and Personal Track Safety – these are qualifications you’ll hold or be ready to complete.
• Signal sighting experience, a driving cab pass (or the ability to gain one), and strong knowledge of operational rules, safety standards and industry procedures are essential.
• You’ll also have experience leading and influencing others, working across departments and building strong relationships with unions, project teams and operational colleagues.
• Project management and reporting experience, along with operational principals and instruction writing skills would be a significant benefit.

Analytical thinking, risk assessment skills and the confidence to challenge and propose new approaches will help you succeed – along with a calm, collaborative style that helps others navigate change with confidence.

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.

Electric Car Scheme: Lease a brand new electric or plugin hybrid car.

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.