Operative [Signalling Maintenance] - Croydon S&T

About the role

At the heart of the railway network is a dedicated team who ensure every journey—passenger or freight—is safe, reliable, and efficient. As an Operative, you'll play a vital role in that mission, working hands-on with a close-knit team to maintain and support the infrastructure that keeps the railway running smoothly every day.

This role is more than a job—it's a gateway to a meaningful, future-proof career in the rail industry. Whether you're just starting out or transferring skills from another sector, we're here to help you grow and succeed.

What You'll Be Doing

• Working with your team to carry out essential maintenance and repairs
• Preparing vehicles and equipment before each shift
• Driving between work sites and transporting tools and materials
• Performing lookout duties to keep your team safe from oncoming trains
• Working outdoors in all weather, sometimes in physically demanding environments

Your experience and skills

• A qualification or demonstrable knowledge in engineering, electrical, or electronic systems
• Experience working in safety-critical environments
• A full UK driving licence (Category B)
• Flexibility to work shifts (days, nights, weekends)
• Ability to commute to your designated location within 35 minutes
• Ability to pass all pre-employment checks (D&A, medical, BPSS clearance)

The Skills That Matter

Skill Why It Matters Teamwork Collaboration is essential for safe, efficient maintenance. Communication Clear, respectful communication keeps everyone safe and informed. Proactive Planning Being prepared ensures smooth, efficient operations. Calm Under Pressure You'll work near high-speed trains—focus is key. Rule-Following Safety procedures must be followed confidently and consistently. Willingness to Learn We'll support your technical and personal development throughout your career.

What to Expect from the Application Process

• Pre-Screening Questions
• Online Psychometric Testing
• Ready to Make a Difference?

Perks That Pack a Punch

• Excellent benefits, including:
• Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
• Defined benefit pension scheme.
• 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
• Up to 75% off leisure travel.
• Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
• Carer's leave to support those who matter.
• Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
• Maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees.
• Plus, more...

About your application

• Three-year employment history
• Upload your CV
• Answer a short set of questions (around 10-15 minutes)

Network Rail is a Disability Confident Leader

We'll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply, and interview for roles. You can visit Evenbreak's Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.

Pre-employment Checks

All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information

Safe Behaviour

Safe behaviour is therefore a requirement of working for Network Rail. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety on your application.

Drugs and Alcohol Standard

All prospective candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.