Apprentice

Job Description

JOB PURPOSE

• To learn to safely drive, operate and maintain OTMs under supervision, developing the skills required for a fully competent Grinder Driver Operator Maintainer role
• To support maintenance, fault-finding and repair activities as part of structured training
• To contribute to maximising machine availability while building technical competence

KEY RESULT AREAS

• Attend and complete all training, competency assessments and development activities
• Work in line with agreed roster while gaining practical experience
• Assist in maintaining route knowledge, learning routes as directed by the Line Manager
• Support maintenance tasks and monitor machine performance under supervision
• Assist in maintaining machine condition, including: documentation, tooling, spare parts, consumables, safety equipment, waste disposal and your PPE
• Compliance with all company policies & procedures, including Health & Safety, Quality & Environmental
• Comply with all company policies, especially Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental requirements
• Learn and Utilise IT equipment provided to update and access Apps and Programs associate with your role (Rule Book, FAMS, Q-Pulse, AARK etc)

Qualifications

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES/COMPETENCIES

• • Qualifications & Safety Compliance (Apprenticeship Goals)
  • Commit to achieving full OTM Driver, Operator, and Maintainer status through your training program.
  • Work towards track safety certifications, including Personal Track Safety (PTS) and Driving Permits (DP).
  • Learn and strictly follow all health and safety requirements, Driver Rules, and track regulations.
  • Core Skills Development
  • Develop an excellent knowledge of On-Track Machines and mechanical systems during practical training.
  • Build your route knowledge and understanding of the rail network alongside experienced mentors.
  • Utilise basic IT skills to operate Outlook, Excel, Word, Adobe, and the Q-Pulse Document Control System.
  • Behaviours & Professional Values
  • Proactive Learner: Demonstrate self-motivation and a strong desire to ask questions and learn from the team.
  • Safety & Detail-Oriented: Show excellent attention to detail, especially when following strict rail processes and safety rules.
  • Reliable Team Player: Arrive on time, manage your shift hours effectively, and meet training deadlines.
  • Effective Communicator: Be personable and polite when developing working relationships with internal teams and Network Rail customers.
  • Adaptable & Calm: Stay diplomatic and positive when priorities change or when working under minimal supervision as you gain confidence.

Additional Information

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

Technical & Mechanical Learning

• Learn to maintain OTM availability and reliability by shadowing your Line Manager during inspections and servicing.
• Acquire new competencies in OTM driving, operating, and maintenance through formal training and practical assessments.
• Adapt to different OTM types as directed by your Line Manager to broaden your technical knowledge.

Rail Communications & Safety

• Maintain regular contact with the Control Centre to ensure safe movements and clear operational tracking.
• Report accidents, incidents, or faults immediately to Control and your Line Manager to protect track safety.
• Respond to guidance and compliance requests from the Operations and Driver Standards Managers.

Operational Collaboration

• Shadow communication with internal teams, Network Rail (NWR), customers, and contractors during track possessions.
• Attend all shift briefings and operational meetings as requested by your Line Manager.
• Provide logbooks and progress reports to your Line Manager to track your apprenticeship milestones.
• Contribute improvement ideas to your Line Manager to help make OTM operations safer or more efficient.

Transport & Site Logistics

• Keep your company vehicle compliant with standard HR/ADV/H/G/004, treating it as your mobile workshop.
• Travel and lodge flexibly across the rail network to gain experience at different track worksites.

HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• To take reasonable care for the health and safety of yourself and other persons who may be affected by your acts and omissions at work
• Contribute to the delivery of company occupational health and welfare, safety and environmental improvement plans, and brief staff as required
• Only undertake work for which you have been trained and (if required) certified competent
• To comply with and update as requested, Risk Assessments, Method Statements and Safe Systems of Work
• Maintain and utilise all PPE provided by the employer
• Co-operate with your employer on health, safety and environment
• Make safe any unsafe conditions where practicable and challenge unsafe work practices
• Inform your Line Manager or Health and Safety representative of any unsafe occurrences
• Report and assist when requested, with the investigations of accidents, incidents and near misses

Harsco is committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees and applicants.