Who are we?
South Western Railway (SWR) operates over 1,500 services each weekday across the network and employs more than 5,000 people. We provide easy and convenient mobility, connecting people and communities in South West London, southern counties of England and the Isle of Wight.
Join our team and help us continue to improve quality of life by bringing people together to get the most out of life.
SWR is part of FirstGroup, the largest rail operator in the UK and second largest bus operator in the UK outside London. FirstGroup operates services throughout the UK and Ireland, with over 30,000 employees providing services that make travel smoother and life easier. FirstGroup works hard to reduce its impact on the environment, introducing cleaner and more environmentally responsible methods of transport.
About the Team:
No two days are ever the same in the Train Planning team. It is a fantastic environment where you will learn about timetabling and the diagramming of rolling stock and traincrew to deliver an excellent service for our customers.
About the job
If you love problem-solving, a career in Train Planning could be perfect for you.
This role assists in providing the Train Planning team with support and enhanced resource in the compilation and documentation of efficient and effective train service and associated resource plans.
To gain experience and acquire skills and knowledge in all technical aspects of the train planning process; its associated techniques and systems.
To gain a working appreciation of how the technical skills of train planning and the plans they generate influence operations, performance, customer service, resourcing, commercial and other business requirements.
There are opportunities to develop within the team and here are some quotes from members of the team:
“The role is a brilliant insight into the behind the scenes running of the South Western Railway network. The role is challenging but interesting and it's great to be part of such a supportive team.” Adam Kellie (CO3 Train Planning Support Clerk)
“Joining SWR's Train Planning team in the Train Planning Support role was the best decision I made! You don't have to know anything about trains or the railway as a comprehensive training structure is provided. All you need is a passion for problem solving and a great attention to detail. The Train Planning Unit is an amazing place to work, and the team is so welcoming. The opportunity to work collaboratively across all different areas makes for a varied experience every day.” Connor Taylor (CO4 Short-Term Planning Clerk)
“It's really rewarding to know, that my work has so much impact, with over 300 guards looking at diagrams I had created or amended for them on any given weekend.” Connor Taylor (CO4 Short-Term Planning Clerk)
“This role is an exciting insight into the background workings of the railway industry. Support is provided throughout and asking questions is greatly encouraged! I never realised the complexity of ensuring that trains can run on time!” Holly Cunningham (CO3 Train Planning Support Clerk – Placement Year)
Your main responsibilities will be:
You'll need:
About the location:
The South Western Railway HQ is based on the 4th Floor at South Bank Central, a stone's throw from the River Thames and a 10 minute walk from our busiest station, Waterloo. It is local to many well-known attractions, restaurants and retail facilities and is easily accessible by public transport.
Working pattern:
An average of 37 hours per week, typically office hours Monday - Friday.
Additional Information:
Please note that if successful at the screening stage you will be invited to complete online assessments. This role is for a summer 2024 start.
The Reward:
In return we offer a competitive salary and a variety of valuable benefits including free duty and leisure travel on SWR services for employee, free leisure travel for spouse/partner and dependants (criteria dependant), 75% discount on many other train operating companies, a range of retail benefits and an excellent pension scheme.
We all belong at SWR.
FirstGroup's vision is to provide an inclusive environment for all colleagues, across its group of businesses, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment.
We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA+, ethnicity, religion, and disability. We maintain a zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent.
We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive.
We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details.
If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below. We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.
Thank you
