Assistant Train Controller

Together, we move what matters
We are at the start of something powerful. Heavy Haul Rail was created with a simple but transformative belief: the UK deserves a smarter, cleaner, more resilient freight future. And we have the opportunity to build it.
Every role in this business carries purpose. Whether you work in operational delivery, driving trains, engineering, or business support, the work you do contributes directly to reducing emissions, easing road congestion, strengthening supply chains and powering British industry. This is meaningful work, with real impact.
Who we are
Previously operating as Freightliner’s Heavy Haul business, we are now an independent company following CMA CGM Group’s acquisition of Freightliner UK’s Intermodal Logistics business in January 2026.
Heavy Haul Rail is the UK’s next-generation rail freight partner built for a sector ready to evolve. We believe it’s time to move differently. Congested roads, rising emissions, fragile supply chains. These aren’t just logistical challenges; they’re environmental and economic wake-up calls. We’re here to lead the modal shift, helping businesses transition from road to rail with confidence, clarity, and measurable impact.
We move 17 million tonnes of freight a year for customers in the industrial, energy and construction markets. The company operates 95 locomotives and over 1000 wagons. Heavy Haul Rail’s team of 950 supports customer deliveries to over 100 locations across the UK, running 250 trains per week.
Heavy Haul Rail also supports the renewal and maintenance of the rail infrastructure and supports passenger train operators and rolling stock companies, including the provision of drivers and route conducting services.
But none of this happens without us, its people.
Join our team: Assistant Train Controller
What You’ll Do
As an Assistant Train Controller, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the real-time management of train services across the Heavy Haul Rail network. Working alongside Train Controllers and operational colleagues, you will help monitor performance, manage operational systems, investigate delays and support decision-making that keeps freight moving across the country.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys problem solving, thrives in a fast-paced operational environment and wants to be at the heart of a business where every decision has a direct impact on customers and service delivery.
Key responsibilities include:
Supporting the control and monitoring of live train services to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Managing and updating key rail industry systems including TOPS, TOPS2000 and TRUST.
Investigating delays, late starts and performance-related incidents to protect business interests and improve operational efficiency.
Supporting the management of Train Delay Attribution processes and ensuring contractual obligations are met.
Monitoring train schedules and resolving data or reporting discrepancies.
Assisting with traincrew resource management, including booking staff on and off duty and supporting roster alterations.
Producing reports, analysing performance data and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
Working collaboratively with internal teams, Network Rail and industry partners to improve service delivery and minimise delay minutes.
Maintaining accurate operational records and ensuring key documentation is archived appropriately.
Deputising for the Train Controller when required and supporting the wider Control function.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for someone who can combine strong operational awareness with excellent analytical and communication skills. You’ll be comfortable working under pressure, making informed decisions and managing detailed information in a safety-focused environment.
Ideally, you'll have:
Experience of railway operations and a good understanding of the rail industry structure.
Good railway geographical knowledge.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
The ability to work effectively under pressure and respond calmly during operational incidents and disruption.
Strong problem-solving and negotiation skills.
Strong IT skills, ideally including experience of TOPS and TRUST systems.
The ability to analyse complex information and maintain concentration on detailed tasks for extended periods.
Knowledge of train planning processes, rail industry performance regimes and operational railway systems.
A proactive and continuous improvement mindset.
What Makes You Successful
You'll thrive in this role if you:
Demonstrate Heavy Haul Rail’s values in everything you do.
Put safety at the centre of every decision.
Remain calm, resilient and professional under pressure.
Build effective relationships and work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders.
Have a strong customer focus and understand the importance of operational excellence.
Follow established procedures while seeking opportunities to improve performance and efficiency.
Maintain high standards of confidentiality, integrity and professionalism.
This post is subject to standard pre-employment checks including employment references, medical & D&A screening, and successful DBS background checks.
Heavy Haul Rail is proud to be an Armed Forces Covenant signatory. We actively welcome applications from veterans, reservists and service leavers. Experience gained in military planning, logistics, operations or resource management is highly valued and transferable to this role.
Why Join Us?
Here, you’re not one small part of a big machine. You’re a key contributor with national significance and real-world impact. We want our colleagues to feel proud of the work they do, connected to our mission and empowered to shape the future of this business. As part of Heavy Haul Rail, you can expect:
Purpose that matters. Your work contributes to a cleaner, more efficient freight industry.
Opportunity to shape what’s next. We’re new, agile and ready to do things differently, your ideas help build our future.
A team that moves forward together. Collaboration, respect and shared ambition define how we work.
A commitment to excellence. We deliver with pride, precision and professionalism.
Room to grow. Your development fuels our momentum.
Our perks and benefits
Our people are our most important asset. We strive to empower our employees, ensuring they are trained and competent, fit for work, always informed, and completely engaged in our culture that places safety and wellbeing firmly at the heart of everything we do.
We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles. In return we can offer considerable career progression, and a rewarding career in an award-winning team