Training Coordinator - Fixed term until end July 2027

Job Description

Training Co-Ordinator

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Operations
SALARY: £32,853 rising to £38,650 after 6 months
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
LOCATION: Manchester with expectation of working across the North West
HOURS: 35 per week

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on – and behind the scenes, it takes great planning to make that happen. As Training Co-Ordinator, you’ll be the vital link between our driver training team and depot operations, making sure training is delivered smoothly, efficiently, and in a way that keeps the North moving.

It’s a role that blends organisation, people skills, and problem-solving – all focused on reducing time to train, improving productivity, and supporting performance across the North West regions.

What you’ll be doing

• Coordinating route learning in line with agreed training plans
• Working with depot teams to balance training coverage and driver release
• Supporting minder and Driver Instructor (DI) allocations, keeping training dashboards up to date
• Linking with train planning and operations to scope and deliver training diagrams
• Using data and insight to highlight where training can improve productivity and train service coverage (e.g. identifying routes which bring more diagram productivity to each traincrew member depending on their training needs)
• Supporting with trade union engagement activities, including providing updates at depot council meetings alongside Operations Managers
• Building strong working relationships with depot managers, drivers, conductors, and trade union partners to get things done collaboratively
• Spending regular time at depots (typically 2–3 days a week, with some flexibility) to work directly with colleagues and stakeholders
• Contributing to longer-term training allocation strategies

About you

You’ll be someone who enjoys keeping things organised while working with people at every level. To succeed in this role, you’ll need to bring:

• Strong interpersonal skills – building relationships at the depot with colleagues and trade union partners will be key
• Resilience - Northern Operations is a highly unionised environment with restrictive terms and conditions, so you’ll need confidence, tact, and persistence
• Confidence with Excel – knowledge of IRMA or TRACS Rosters is a bonus
• An understanding of traincrew terms and conditions and rostering principles
• An analytical mindset – able to use available data and tools to identify where training focus can deliver the biggest impact
• A collaborative approach, with the confidence to balance competing needs and drive improvements

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 dependants 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: 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• 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, recognised qualifications and career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: From Northern Lights to Northern Sparks, we 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 2,650 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.