Train Service Controller

Job Description

Job Title: Train Service Controller

Business Function: Controller & Resource Planning

Salary: £61,364

Role Type: On Site

Location: Manchester Rail Operating Centre

Hours: 42

Every minute of every day, our Control team are the heartbeat of Northern. They’re the people making sure our trains run safely, smoothly, and on time, even when the unexpected happens.

As a Train Service Controller, you’ll be right at the centre of that operation. You’ll oversee the real-time running of our trains, working across both electric and diesel fleets, and helping to keep services moving safely and efficiently across the North. When plans change or disruption hits, you’ll be the one making smart, informed decisions to keep customers on the move and ensure units are available for maintenance when needed.

It’s a role where calm heads, sharp thinking and teamwork matter most because every call you make helps thousands of people get where they need to be.

What you’ll be doing

• Managing Northern’s train service in real time, making decisions to maintain safety, performance and service quality.
• Allocating and adjusting fleet resources to make sure trains are in the right place at the right time.
• Liaising closely with other Northern Controllers, Network Rail and other train operators to minimise disruption.
• Using our control systems to record and track train movements, maintenance needs and any service changes.
• Supporting the Duty Control Manager and Control Team Leader to activate contingency plans when needed.
• Logging events, sharing updates, and supporting colleagues across Control.
• Mentoring others and contributing to team projects when required.

About you

You’ll bring a mix of technical know-how and cool-headed decision-making. You’ll likely have experience working in a rail operations, control or performance environment and you’ll know how to apply that knowledge when it counts.

Here’s what will help you succeed:

• A solid understanding of railway operations, including passenger train movements and incident management.
• Confidence with both electric and diesel multiple unit operations.
• Strong geographical knowledge of the Northern network and surrounding infrastructure.
• The ability to make quick, logical decisions under pressure, always keeping safety and customers front of mind.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, working well with colleagues across Northern, Network Rail and other operators.
• Good IT skills and attention to detail when updating systems and logs.

A good level of education is important, but your ability to stay calm, think clearly and lead through disruption will really set you apart.

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: Tailored training and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications, plus clear career pathways across the business.
• Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate 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.