Shift Production Manager

We are seeking a Shift Engineering Manager to join our Engineering team at the new Shipley TrainCare Centre. Reporting to the Shipley TrainCare Centre Manager, this is a crucial safety-critical role that involves leading the safe and efficient delivery of maintenance, servicing, and train presentation activities. You will be responsible for the performance of your shift, setting the tone, and ensuring every shift meets the network's needs.

Be Part of Something New

This is a unique opportunity to be part of establishing a brand new facility. You will play a key role in:

• Setting clear standards and expectations from the outset.
• Leading behaviours that foster a safe, professional, and high-performing team.
• Embedding safety, quality, and continuous improvement into all operations.
• Supporting the development of a supportive and thriving 'people first' environment.

Our vision is for Shipley to be a benchmark TrainCare Centre, renowned for engineering excellence, operational safety, and a culture where employees feel valued and supported.

Your Future, Built Here

At Northern, we are committed to employee development, especially at our new Shipley facility. As we grow, we are also focused on expanding the skills, capabilities, and progression pathways for our team members. Whether your career aspirations lie in Senior Leadership, specialized engineering roles, or wider operational management, Shipley offers the chance to be part of something new and to grow with us.

What you’ll be doing

• Provide leadership to TrainCare Centre (TCC) teams.
• Ensure trains are ready when needed – safely, reliably, and to the correct standards.
• Serve as a safety role model, maintaining clear standards for maintenance and engineering, informing teams, managing risks, and prioritizing employee well-being.
• Lead TCC operations during shifts, delivering the production plan and adjusting schedules for unforeseen events.
• Coach, develop, and support colleagues, manage competence, and ensure succession planning.
• Oversee planning, vehicle movements, resource availability, and the use of engineering systems to meet workload plans, strategic goals, and service delivery requirements.
• Manage day-to-day operational challenges and make decisions to keep the depot running.
• Build effective relationships with internal teams and external partners.
• Take responsibility for incidents, investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.

About you

We are looking for a confident leader with experience managing people in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment. You should be comfortable taking responsibility for your shift, making decisions under pressure, and upholding high standards of safety, quality, and performance. You need to set clear expectations, communicate effectively, and be willing to challenge when necessary.

You’ll also have:

• Experience in an engineering environment with a proven track record of leading teams.
• An engineering qualification at Level 3, with ONC or HNC (or working towards it).
• A NEBOSH Certificate (or working towards it).
• Confidence in making decisions in a fast-moving operational setting.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build trust.
• A commitment to safety, quality, and doing things the right way.

Experience in rail, heavy maintenance, or a similar safety-critical environment is beneficial, but your leadership abilities and commitment to supporting your team and driving results are paramount.

What’s in it for you?

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and dependents on Northern services, with discounts on other networks.
• Generous Pension Scheme: Employer contributions match 1.5 times your contribution.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: 9 months full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on bikes.
• Exclusive Discounts: Through Northern Perks.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support.
• Training and Career Development: Tailored training, recognized qualifications, and career pathways.
• Recognition: Awards like Northern Lights and Northern Sparks.

Why Northern?

We are a vital part of the North, connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we are committed to improving rail travel, enhancing customer experience, and protecting the environment. Join us at a pivotal moment in rail history as we shape the future.

A place for everyone

We are building a diverse team where everyone feels welcome and belongs. We offer reasonable adjustments for the application process and are a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, guaranteeing an interview if you meet the minimum criteria. We use automated screening to reduce unconscious bias. All successful offers are subject to a DBS check and medical assessment.