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Full job description
Control Team Leader
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Control
SALARY: £65,200 (90% during training period)
ROLE TYPE: On site
LOCATION: Manchester ROC
HOURS: 42 hours
People rely on Northern to keep the North moving. Behind every journey is a team making quick decisions, solving problems in real time, and keeping customers informed when plans change. As part of our Control team, you’d be right at the centre of that operation.
This is a role where no two shifts look the same. One moment you could be coordinating service recovery during disruption, the next you’ll be supporting your team through a complex operational challenge or working with Network Rail to keep services moving safely and efficiently. You’ll lead with confidence, bring calm under pressure, and help create an environment where people feel supported to make decisions and find solutions.
As a Control Team Leader, you’ll play a key part in keeping train services running safely and reliably for the millions of people who depend on Northern every day.
What you’ll be doing
You’ll support the Duty Control Manager in leading a team responsible for managing Northern services in real time. That means balancing operational performance, customer impact, safety, and resource planning – often all at once.
Sme of the things you’ll be doing include:
- Leading and supporting Controllers through day-to-day operations and disruption
- Making tactical decisions to minimise delays and keep customers moving safely
- Working closely with Network Rail Control to negotiate service recovery and track access during disruption
- Managing fleet allocation in real time, ensuring trains are available for service and maintenance requirements are met
- Monitoring operational performance and leading real-time investigations into incidents and delays
- Coordinating alternative transport arrangements when required
- Coaching and mentoring colleagues, including supporting the development of new team members
- Encouraging a culture where people feel confident to think ahead, problem solve, and make informed decisions
About you
You’ll know how to bring people together, especially when the pressure is on. Calm, resilient and solutions-focused, you’ll be comfortable making quick decisions while keeping safety and customer experience front of mind.
People management, problem solving, communication – that’s the trio you’ll bring to the team. Alongside those, you’ll also have the confidence to challenge where needed, influence others positively, and lead by example.
We’re also looking for:
- Experience leading or managing people in a fast-paced operational environment
- Strong communication skills and a customer-focused mindset
- The ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a wider Control team
- Confidence making decisions under pressure and adapting to changing situations
- Experience within logistics, transport, or operational planning would be beneficial
- A good understanding of the Northern network would be advantageous
- Knowledge of Passenger Information During Disruption (PIDD) principles would be helpful
- Flexibility to work shifts, including early starts, late finishes, and weekends
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.
Electric Car Scheme: Lease a brand new electric or plugin hybrid car.
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 2,650 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.