Network Rail Operatives and Technicians - General Discussion

[bellsandbills]

Hello, what questions should I expect from a track maintenance interview? And what should I learn before i prepare for the role ? Would appreciate the help thanks

How did it go mate? I have my assessment next week. It comprises of group discussion and an interview. Any tips?

 

[trainmaster00]

You have been placed in the candidate pool and will be aligned with a role. We will keep you updated regularly. Once you have been identified as the preferred candidate for a role, we will arrange an online meeting with the Section Manager to confirm the match and then process the offer (subject to onboarding checks).

In the meantime, to speed up the process once matched, could you possibly complete the attached Employment History form with 3 years’ worth of history. Please also highlight any gaps in employment for education or other purposes. does this mean i will surely get the job if a position opens up and i pass onboarding checks??

 

[Zontar]

Which company? Where?

 

[trainmaster00]

Network rail,signalling and Telecoms,bristol

 

[trainmaster00]

Thanks mate.

Waiting to hear back for my start date now. Appreciate it

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 24 Oct 2024 ==




Hiya mate

It took 1.5 months to find out after application I had a interview.

Then it took 7 weeks to find out if I got the job or not after my interview.

The HR is painfully slow.

If anyone has any questions I’ll answer them to the best of my ability.

For network rail singal or telecom operator position in bristol,got mail saying passed the assessment centre,whats the next step,when will the next step take place?

 

[bellsandbills]

You have been placed in the candidate pool and will be aligned with a role. We will keep you updated regularly. Once you have been identified as the preferred candidate for a role, we will arrange an online meeting with the Section Manager to confirm the match and then process the offer (subject to onboarding checks).

In the meantime, to speed up the process once matched, could you possibly complete the attached Employment History form with 3 years’ worth of history. Please also highlight any gaps in employment for education or other purposes. does this mean i will surely get the job if a position opens up and i pass onboarding checks??

Congrats TRAIN MASTER!!! I got the same (copy/paste) email for the same role! Any idea how long does it take for the next stage? From reading the forums there does not seem to be a set pattern and also am I right in thinking that Section Manager will be the one to select suitable candidates from the talent pool? I do not want to have high hops at this stage as I might not even be matched with a role or selected by section manager. Let me know if you hear anything further. Congrats

 

[trainmaster00]

Congrats TRAIN MASTER!!! I got the same (copy/paste) email for the same role! Any idea how long does it take for the next stage? From reading the forums there does not seem to be a set pattern and also am I right in thinking that Section Manager will be the one to select suitable candidates from the talent pool? I do not want to have high hops at this stage as I might not even be matched with a role or selected by section manager. Let me know if you hear anything further. Congrats

Im in the same confused state as you.congrats to you too.assessment centres are gonna be held until 30june. So i think its gonna go looong for the next step.

 

[bellsandbills]

Im in the same confused state as you.congrats to you too.assessment centres are gonna be held until 30june. So i think its gonna go looong for the next step.

that's true... all the best and come back to updates us when you know more

 

[trainmaster00]

that's true... all the best and come back to updates us when you know more

Can we apply to other job roles in network rail? What role did you get?

 

[bellsandbills]

I did ask this question after the interview - was told yes you can.
however I withdrew all my other applications when i got informed that i performed well and they are interested in me (professionally).
I will be aligned to either operative off track or operative S&T.
I have no idea which one to go for though, if asked.

 

[dave112]

I to have had the same email adding me to a pool Ive tried to ask what the expected time line is and had no response has anyone else had any luck

 

[trainmaster00]

Dave112 ,bellsandbills when i asked at interview they said it would take 3months before you start . all the steps like medical and bg verification will be done within these 3mon.

I to have had the same email adding me to a pool Ive tried to ask what the expected time line is and had no response has anyone else had any luck

 

[bellsandbills]

Dave112 ,bellsandbills when i asked at interview they said it would take 3months before you start . all the steps like medic

I to have had the same email adding me to a pool Ive tried to ask what the expected time line is and had no response has anyone else had any luck

interviews/assessments are ongoing till june i believe so probably by august/sept i would hope.

 

[dave112]

interviews/assessments are ongoing till june i believe so probably by august/sept i would hope.

thanks, bit longer than I hoped but atleast I'm a lil bit of the way into working for NR.

 

[bellsandbills]

consistency and patience shall pay off.

 

[lukerail123]

I’ve just been offered a job within network rail as a fast track technician which is just under an hours commute from where I live. I’m really eager to have the job but I’m also worried that the commute might be too much. Has anyone else been in this situation who can advise wether they would take the opportunity or not? I’ve been trying to get on for nearly 2 years maybe more so it is a great opportunity but I’m worried about the commute getting a little tedious with the cost of fuel the potential to hit traffic etc. (I know it’d down to personal choice) but has anyone been in a similar situation?

 

[henke7]

Once you’re in you have access to the internal jobs board. Short term pain could result in long term gain.

 

[lukerail123]

Once you’re in you have access to the internal jobs board. Short term pain could result in long term gain.

Thanks for the reply, this I kind of what I was weighing up. I’ve got a really good opportunity infront of me with a bit of a pain in terms of commuting but in the long run I can only presume it’s got to be worth it? Once I’m in can I jump ship within the first few months if a job arises more suiting to my location or will this look bad on my behalf?

 

[henke7]

What discipline are you being fast tracked into the technician role for? Also you need to look at is there any other depots closer to your home as well. As your going maintenance and it’s your first job in the railway my opinion* would be give it at least 6 months to a year as you can gain some experience out on the line to use for an application for another role.

 

[lukerail123]

Sh

What discipline are you being fast tracked into the technician role for? Also you need to look at is there any other depots closer to your home as well. As your going maintenance and it’s your first job in the railway my opinion* would be give it at least 6 months to a year as you can gain some experience out on the line to use for an application for another role.

The role if for “fast track technician” or it could possibly “track operative”

so basically I was short listed for a job role as after I’d had my interview then afterwards network rail had a “recruitment freeze” which apparently isn’t un-heard of. I was told Network rail can keep you on file for 6 months so Because It’s been 5 month since my interview I’m only on file for another month in which I have any hopes of getting a role without going through all the processes of applying for jobs, having interviews etc. so they’ve offered me the job as I’m next in line for a role from the candidates that I interviewed with. So this is the role they’ve offered me which is within network rails 60 minute commute time. I asked for further information about the role which hasn’t yet been sent to me all I’ve been told up to press is my basic salary.

That’s the thing I don’t want to get into the role and try and jump ship early on as I don’t think it looks good on my character although I’d genuinely only be moving to do what I think would best suit me but at the same time not want to give myself a bad name in a sense.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 24 Apr 2025 ==

The role if for “fast track technician” or it could possibly “track operative” (on track)

so basically I was short listed for a job role as after I’d had my interview then afterwards network rail had a “recruitment freeze” which apparently isn’t un-heard of. I was told Network rail can keep you on file for 6 months so Because It’s been 5 month since my interview I’m only on file for another month in which I have any hopes of getting a role without going through all the processes of applying for jobs, having interviews etc. so they’ve offered me the job as I’m next in line for a role from the candidates that I interviewed with. So this is the role they’ve offered me which is within network rails 60 minute commute time. I asked for further information about the role which hasn’t yet been sent to me all I’ve been told up to press is my basic salary.

That’s the thing I don’t want to get into the role and try and jump ship early on as I don’t think it looks good on my character although I’d genuinely only be moving to do what I think would best suit me but at the same time not want to give myself a bad name in a sense.

 

[trainmaster00]

hey guys.
update
Is being placed in the candidate pool a standard part of the process? It is for the recruitment campaign that is underway for our Maintenance Delivery area of the business.



Are role assignments being held until all assessment centres are completed by 30th June? We are reviewing candidates currently within the candidate pool weekly and mapping to current vacant posts. Positions do come up regularly as people move around the business. We are not waiting until we have assessed everyone as it is likely to be an ongoing thing.



Given my placement in the pool, can I consider the role confirmed, or is there still a selection process ahead? You do not currently have a formal offer of employment. This will happen once you are aligned to a specific role. However, we are keen to place you in a role for Network Rail and will keep your application open for up to 6 months if you are still willing.



Can i apply to other jobs in Network rail ,without losing the progress i have for current application as an maintenance operative? Yes, absolutely. Any other applications will not affect this application in any way unless you secure a role and withdraw yourself.

 

[dave112]

hey guys.
update
Is being placed in the candidate pool a standard part of the process? It is for the recruitment campaign that is underway for our Maintenance Delivery area of the business.



Are role assignments being held until all assessment centres are completed by 30th June? We are reviewing candidates currently within the candidate pool weekly and mapping to current vacant posts. Positions do come up regularly as people move around the business. We are not waiting until we have assessed everyone as it is likely to be an ongoing thing.



Given my placement in the pool, can I consider the role confirmed, or is there still a selection process ahead? You do not currently have a formal offer of employment. This will happen once you are aligned to a specific role. However, we are keen to place you in a role for Network Rail and will keep your application open for up to 6 months if you are still willing.



Can i apply to other jobs in Network rail ,without losing the progress i have for current application as an maintenance operative? Yes, absolutely. Any other applications will not affect this application in any way unless you secure a role and withdraw yourself.

I had the same sort of reply only with the added we currently don't have any roles but people do move around which seems odd advertising roles that don't exist.I believe once matched with a role you have a meeting with your new line manager as a informal interview.You can apply for other roles in the meantime.

 

[makkyBoy]

In the absence of any reply these would be good questions to ask at interview.

How can I be sponsored by your company? Thanks

 

[alxndr]

I’ve just been offered a job within network rail as a fast track technician which is just under an hours commute from where I live. I’m really eager to have the job but I’m also worried that the commute might be too much. Has anyone else been in this situation who can advise wether they would take the opportunity or not? I’ve been trying to get on for nearly 2 years maybe more so it is a great opportunity but I’m worried about the commute getting a little tedious with the cost of fuel the potential to hit traffic etc. (I know it’d down to personal choice) but has anyone been in a similar situation?

I know plenty of people who have had an hours’ commute. Two people couldn’t handle it (one left to focus on his wedding photography side gig, one transferred to a nearer depot) but most people can.

Depending on your shift patter you may well find your commute avoids the peak times.

 

[bellsandbills]

hey guys.
update
Is being placed in the candidate pool a standard part of the process? It is for the recruitment campaign that is underway for our Maintenance Delivery area of the business.



Are role assignments being held until all assessment centres are completed by 30th June? We are reviewing candidates currently within the candidate pool weekly and mapping to current vacant posts. Positions do come up regularly as people move around the business. We are not waiting until we have assessed everyone as it is likely to be an ongoing thing.



Given my placement in the pool, can I consider the role confirmed, or is there still a selection process ahead? You do not currently have a formal offer of employment. This will happen once you are aligned to a specific role. However, we are keen to place you in a role for Network Rail and will keep your application open for up to 6 months if you are still willing.



Can i apply to other jobs in Network rail ,without losing the progress i have for current application as an maintenance operative? Yes, absolutely. Any other applications will not affect this application in any way unless you secure a role and withdraw yourself.

Thanks Mate, that's helpful. Seems like you definitely have the job but obviously they cant put a pen to it yet due to unforeseen circumstances. Answers a lot of questions , that many like us had in our minds so thank you for updating us. Keep us posted with any developments

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Apr 2025 ==

I’ve just been offered a job within network rail as a fast track technician which is just under an hours commute from where I live. I’m really eager to have the job but I’m also worried that the commute might be too much. Has anyone else been in this situation who can advise wether they would take the opportunity or not? I’ve been trying to get on for nearly 2 years maybe more so it is a great opportunity but I’m worried about the commute getting a little tedious with the cost of fuel the potential to hit traffic etc. (I know it’d down to personal choice) but has anyone been in a similar situation?

I might be completely wrong but TECHNICIAN and OPERATIVE are two quite different roles. My understanding is, with fast track you are being accelerated on training to be a technician rather than an operative.
Also, as you say you have been trying to get in for 2 years. Now is the time and the opportunity, you wont take it you will most likely regret it in near future. Get in, look for yourself and see if it suits you.
Surely, you would have thought about the commute when you applied, so why doubt yourself now? Others do it, so you can atleast try to see if it suits you.

If I was you, I would jump on this opportunity.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 30 Apr 2025 ==

Anyone else had an update from NR? Re operative talent pool.

 

[dave112]

Thanks Mate, that's helpful. Seems like you definitely have the job but obviously they cant put a pen to it yet due to unforeseen circumstances. Answers a lot of questions , that many like us had in our minds so thank you for updating us. Keep us posted with any developments

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Apr 2025 ==


I might be completely wrong but TECHNICIAN and OPERATIVE are two quite different roles. My understanding is, with fast track you are being accelerated on training to be a technician rather than an operative.
Also, as you say you have been trying to get in for 2 years. Now is the time and the opportunity, you wont take it you will most likely regret it in near future. Get in, look for yourself and see if it suits you.
Surely, you would have thought about the commute when you applied, so why doubt yourself now? Others do it, so you can atleast try to see if it suits you.

If I was you, I would jump on this opportunity.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 30 Apr 2025 ==

Anyone else had an update from NR? Re operative talent pool.

I had a update today to say they are looking at itnweekly unfortunately this week there is nothing that matches me but will keep me updated evry 2 weeks.

 

[bellsandbills]

I had a update today to say they are looking at itnweekly unfortunately this week there is nothing that matches me but will keep me updated evry 2 weeks.

exactly the same!

 

[GuyGibsonVC]

Thanks Mate, that's helpful. Seems like you definitely have the job but obviously they cant put a pen to it yet due to unforeseen circumstances. Answers a lot of questions , that many like us had in our minds so thank you for updating us. Keep us posted with any developments

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Apr 2025 ==


I might be completely wrong but TECHNICIAN and OPERATIVE are two quite different roles. My understanding is, with fast track you are being accelerated on training to be a technician rather than an operative.
Also, as you say you have been trying to get in for 2 years. Now is the time and the opportunity, you wont take it you will most likely regret it in near future. Get in, look for yourself and see if it suits you.
Surely, you would have thought about the commute when you applied, so why doubt yourself now? Others do it, so you can atleast try to see if it suits you.

If I was you, I would jump on this opportunity.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 30 Apr 2025 ==

Anyone else had an update from NR? Re operative talent pool.

Fast Track Technician is a scheme that enables you to be a Technician within 18 months. This is accelerated learning and training.

For comparisons, Apprentices become Technicians after three years.

The Fast Track Scheme is a good scheme with hundreds of applicants and I would recommend it. There is some much opportunity internally.

 

[jordan87]

Hi all, I’ve been put into the candidate pool. Am I right in thinking if you don’t match with any job after 6 months you are removed from the pool and have to reapply for other jobs?

All seems strange doing an interview and assessment with no job waiting at the end of it

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 8 May 2025 ==

Thanks Mate, that's helpful. Seems like you definitely have the job but obviously they cant put a pen to it yet due to unforeseen circumstances. Answers a lot of questions , that many like us had in our minds so thank you for updating us. Keep us posted with any developments

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 29 Apr 2025 ==


I might be completely wrong but TECHNICIAN and OPERATIVE are two quite different roles. My understanding is, with fast track you are being accelerated on training to be a technician rather than an operative.
Also, as you say you have been trying to get in for 2 years. Now is the time and the opportunity, you wont take it you will most likely regret it in near future. Get in, look for yourself and see if it suits you.
Surely, you would have thought about the commute when you applied, so why doubt yourself now? Others do it, so you can atleast try to see if it suits you.

If I was you, I would jump on this opportunity.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 30 Apr 2025 ==

Anyone else had an update from NR? Re operative talent pool.

I don’t think you 100% have the job as if nothing comes up in 6 months you’re removed from the pool

 

[dave112]

Hi all, I’ve been put into the candidate pool. Am I right in thinking if you don’t match with any job after 6 months you are removed from the pool and have to reapply for other jobs?

All seems strange doing an interview and assessment with no job waiting at the end of it

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 8 May 2025 ==


I don’t think you 100% have the job as if nothing comes up in 6 months you’re removed from the pool

pretty much yes if you get to 6 months then your out but the recruitment team seem hopeful to find people places.i also find it odd to put people through assessments and interviews for roles that don't yet exist.