CO3 Train Planning Support Clerk

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 bring people together to get the most out of life. 

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 (CO5 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:

• To learn and understand the Train Planning processes
• To assist as directed in the production of train plans incorporating timetables (train and bus) along with associated rolling stock and traincrew diagrams
• To input and document train plans enabling their publication to concerned operational and customer service functions.
• To assist with other activities within the Train Planning team as required by the Train Planning Manager.
• To act as a positive role model at all times in matters relating to Health and Safety.

 You'll need:

• To be educated to GCSE level or equivalent with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• To have an appreciation of the subsections of train planning, how they interlink and impact on each other.
• A good knowledge of South Western Railway geography

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.

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 employees
• Free leisure travel for spouse/partner and dependants (criteria dependent)
• 75% discount on many other train operating companies
• Full training and support with development
• Excellent pension scheme 

We all belong at SWR. Our 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.

https://exceptionalindividuals.com/neurodiversity/

https://www.healthassured.org/blog/neurodiversity