Control Team Leader
Location – York Rail Operating Centre
Salary – £56,750.40 during training (6 weeks), rising to £63,056 once qualified
People across the North count on us to get them where they need to be – safely, reliably and on time. Our Control teams make that happen every single day, keeping services running smoothly even when the unexpected happens.
As a Control Team Leader, you’ll lead the Control Team on shift, which includes our Operational and Customer Controllers. It’s a role where quick thinking and calm decision‑making make all the difference – whether that’s keeping trains moving during disruption, making sure the right trains and crew are in the right place, or working closely with Network Rail to get passengers on their way.
What you’ll be doing
- Leading and supporting the Control Team on shift – including Train Service Controllers, Disruption Controllers, Customer Service Controllers and Customer Information Controllers.
- Working with the Duty Control Manager to deliver a safe, punctual and reliable train service.
- Making key decisions in real time to keep services moving – allocating trains and crew and securing train paths with Network Rail during disruption.
- Overseeing the allocation of our diesel and electric train fleets, ensuring units are where they need to be for both passengers and maintenance.
- Leading performance investigations as incidents happen, so Northern can understand causes and make improvements.
- Training, mentoring and supporting Controllers to help them perform at their best.
About you
You’ll already have solid experience of passenger train operations and incident management. A sound knowledge of railway rules, safety requirements and Northern’s geography will be key, as well as the ability to make clear, confident decisions under pressure.
Leadership is a big part of this role – you’ll motivate and support colleagues across different teams, and you’ll be confident working with Network Rail and other operators to get the best outcome for passengers.
Good IT skills, knowledge of rostering processes, and a strong understanding of customer needs are all important too. IOSH Managing Safely and First Aid at Work qualifications are required, but training can be provided if you don’t yet hold them.
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 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: 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 2,500 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.