Timetable Modelling Specialist

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Strategic Development
SALARY: £41,451 / Grade: ML1/SB2
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
LOCATION: Yor or Manchester
HOURS: 37 per week

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Behind every reliable journey is a timetable that’s been carefully designed, tested, and improved. As part of our Strategic Development team, you’d be right at the centre of that work as a Timetable Modelling Specialist – shaping how our services run today and how they’ll run tomorrow.

This role focuses on turning data into better journeys. You’d use specialist modelling tools to test ideas, spot opportunities, and solve performance challenges across our Operating Plan – the blueprint that keeps our trains moving. Working closely with Planning, Commercial, and Operations, your insight will help create a timetable that’s not just workable, but resilient, efficient, and built around our customers.

What you’ll be doing

• Using timetable modelling software such as Trenolabs to test and improve how our services perform - training can be provided on specialist software
• You will use your modelling skills and understanding of railway operations to explore different timetable options and identify ways to improve punctuality and reliability
• Generating and presenting clear and practical recommendations from complex modelled outputs for improvement or highlighting potential risks
• Collaborate with Northern and industry colleagues to assess how changes affect traincrew, rolling stock (trains), and the wider railway network
• Working with Planning and Commercial teams to turn ideas into deliverable timetable changes
• Supporting the development of seasonal timetables, such as Autumn plans
• Contributing to business cases and documentation that support Operating Plan improvements
• Keeping modelling processes, documentation, and best practice up to date

About you

Simulation modelling experience, understanding of railway operations, analytical thinking, and clear communication – that’s the combination that makes this role work.

You’ll bring:

• Experience of using modelling tools or analysing complex data – ideally in a rail setting
• Ideally a good understanding of the Northern railway geography and how timetables are built and governed
• Ideally experience of using railway planning tools
• Confidence in interpreting technical outputs and explaining them in a way others can act on
• Preferably knowledge of how railway operations work, including rules, planning cycles, and constraints
• Strong numeracy skills, with education to A-level standard or equivalent
• The ability to manage deadlines and balance competing priorities
• A collaborative approach – comfortable working across teams and influencing decisions

If you’ve worked with timetable planning rules, Network Code, or traincrew and rolling stock planning, that’s a bonus – but not essential. What matters most is your ability to turn insight into action.

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 2,650 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.