Resource Planning Support

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Operations 
SALARY: £29,117 rising to £34,255 after 6 months
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
LOCATION: York
HOURS: 35 per week 

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Making that happen takes more than trains and tracks – it takes careful planning behind the scenes. As part of our Resource Planning team, you’d play a key role in making sure the right people are in the right place, at the right time.

This role sits at the heart of how we support our Train Crew, including apprentices developing their careers on the railway. You’ll balance forward planning with day-to-day coordination, helping colleagues get the time and support they need while keeping services running smoothly across the network.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll bring structure and clarity to a busy, fast-moving environment, including:

• Planning and arranging release for traincrew apprentices across the business
• Creating and maintaining accurate records for apprentice progress reviews and End Point Assessments
• Working closely with the Apprentice Governance Team to coordinate key milestones
• Producing and sharing rosters for controller grades, keeping everything aligned with agreed terms and conditions
• Building and maintaining advanced traincrew forecasts to support operational planning
• Supporting the wider Resource Planning Centre with administration and reporting
• Producing utilisation reports to help shape smarter planning decisions
• Managing staff release for medicals, meetings, training and other requirements
• Liaising with Duty Control Managers to respond to sickness, changes and short-notice gaps
• Keeping all records accurate and compliant with Data Protection requirements
• Stepping in to support Training and Release planning when needed

About you

You know how to keep things organised, even when there are lots of moving parts. You’re comfortable taking the lead on your own work, while staying connected with others to make sure nothing gets missed.

Clear communication, attention to detail and good judgement all matter here. You’ll also bring:

• Confidence using Microsoft Word and Excel
• Strong organisational skills – you can manage multiple priorities without losing track
• The ability to work independently and use your initiative
• A calm, reliable approach in a fast-paced environment
• A good understanding of policies, processes or terms and conditions

Experience in a similar planning or administrative role will help, but it’s your mindset and attention to detail that will make the difference.

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.

• 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: Tailored training, recognised qualifications and clear career pathways.

• Recognition: Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks awards celebrate 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.