Network Rail
Operative – Rail Testing and Lubrication – Eastleigh
Location: Eastleigh, GB
Department: CX Rail Testing Eastleigh Direct (881132) G1
About Network Rail
Join the Southern Region – where your work truly matters. Covering Wessex, Sussex, and Kent, the Southern Region is one of the busiest and most dynamic parts of the railway. Our teams keep some of the UK’s most vital passenger and freight routes moving every single day. This is a place where collaboration, innovation, and resilience are key—and where your contribution will directly impact millions of journeys. We are entering an exciting new chapter as we integrate with train operating companies under one national leadership, creating even greater opportunities to shape the future of rail. From supporting major modernisation programmes to improving performance for local communities and enhancing safety across complex operational environments, Southern offers a fast-paced, rewarding environment to grow your career and make a real difference.
Brief Description
Operative – Rail Testing & Lubrication: Keep the Network Smooth!
Location: Eastleigh AMM
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: IMC20 – £29611 + Location Allowance or Standard Maintenance Contract £32639 + Location Allowance
Love working outdoors? Want a role where every detail matters? As a Rail Testing & Lubrication Operative, you’ll be part of the team that keeps the railway safe, smooth, and ready for millions of journeys. You’ll work hands-on with specialist equipment to test rail integrity and apply lubrication to reduce wear and tear—helping trains glide safely across the network. No rail experience? No problem! We’re looking for precision, teamwork, and commitment. We’ll give you all the training you need to master rail testing and lubrication and build a rewarding career in rail.
About the role
What You’ll Do
- Test and inspect: Use specialist tools to check rail condition and prevent faults.
- Lubricate and protect: Apply lubrication to reduce friction and extend rail life.
- Work outdoors: Rain or shine, day or night—you’ll be out there making a difference.
- Drive and deliver: Check the van, transport kit, and keep the team moving.
- Stay safe: Provide lookout duties and follow safety rules at all times.
What We’re Looking For
- Team player with great communication skills.
- Punctual and proactive—always ready for the next job.
- Calm under pressure and safety-focused.
- Willing to learn and grow.
- Full UK driving licence.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Impact: Your work keeps Britain moving.
- Training: We’ll give you the skills to succeed.
- Career Path: Today’s operatives are tomorrow’s technicians and leaders.
- Team Spirit: Work with people who care about making a difference
Perks That Pack a Punch
- Generous annual leave (28 days + statutory days).
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
- Up to 75% off leisure travel.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
- Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to Work + more.
- Generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
We’re All About Inclusion
We believe diversity drives innovation. Whoever you are, however you identify, wherever you’re from — if you’ve got the skills and the spark, we want you on our team. No suits required. Just bring your authentic self.
Important Info
- Shifts include days, nights, and weekends.
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Safety-critical role: drug/alcohol testing, medical checks, hearing and eyesight tests.
- Must live within 60 minutes of your depot.
Ready to roll up your sleeves and keep the railway safe? Apply today and join a team that values your skills, your ideas, and your future.
Location: Eastleigh AMM
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £32639 + Location Allowance
Closing date: 24th April 2026
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Please note the recruitment process for this role is a Competency based interview.
Click ‘apply now’ to apply.
We’re dedicated to creating an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from everyone!
Network Rail is a Disability Confident Leader and we’ll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.
Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks.
Keeping people safe on the railway is at the heart of everything we do. Safe behaviour is therefore a requirement of working for Network Rail. You should demonstrate your personal dedication to safety on your application.
Drugs and Alcohol Standard: All prospective candidates will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.
