Trainee Controller

Are you ready to kick-start a career in the railway industry?

If you’re customer-focused, eager to learn, and looking for a rewarding career path, we invite you to apply to join our Control Team as a Trainee Controller.

Our mission is to provide world-class logistics solutions that empower our customers to deliver on their promises, with a focus on customer-centric and reliable service delivery.

This role offers a 40-week comprehensive training program that immerses you in various business areas, setting you up for a successful career as a fully qualified Controller with potential salaries of up to £55,210inclusive of shift allowance. 

The Control department is a 24/7, 365 days of the year operation. Once qualified, you can expect to be rostered for 12 hour shifts which include days, nights, weekend and bank holiday working. 

All you need is 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4 or A*-C equivalent) including Maths and English, experience in a customer-focused environment and the motivation to grow with us long-term!

Closing date: 25th August 2025 – we may close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applicants. Early application is advised.  

As a Trainee Controller, you will:

• Complete a structured 40-week training program, gaining hands-on experience in multiple departments including TOPs Control, Train Service Control, Business Implementation, Commercial, Timetabling, Planning, Performance, and Safety.
• Shadow experienced Controllers, Traincrew, and Operations Managers to gain in-depth knowledge of GBRf operations. Some of these placements will require you to travel and lodge away.
• Work on a variety of Control desks (commodity-based or TOPs Control) by the end of the training, preparing you to step into a full Controller role.
• Develop essential skills to ensure the smooth delivery of our services to customers.

Career Path & Progression

At the end of the program, you’ll be fully qualified as either a:

• TOPs Controller – salary of £38,122
• Train Service Controller – salary of £55,210

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking motivated individuals who possess the following qualifications and skills:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs, grade 4(C) and above including Maths and English
• Strong IT skills (proficient in Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Customer service experience with a strong focus on satisfaction
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Attention to detail with the ability to stay calm under pressure
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• A passion for learning, personal development, and a hardworking attitude
• The ability to work independently and take initiative

Why Join Us?
This is more than just a job; it's a career opportunity with growth potential. You will receive in-depth training, personal development, and a clear path to a rewarding role within the railway industry.

If you’re passionate about customer service and keen to be a part of the team that keeps the railway running, apply now and take your first step towards a bright future with GBRf.

Our Values

Professionalism – Safety and security is paramount in our business, and we feel that this embodies the foundation of a high achieving safety culture

Support – We look after our people and they in turn are encouraged to look after each other

Communication – The transparency of our is business is valued by our colleagues and customers

Trust and Empowerment – We believe that openness and honesty make for the best relationship because it leads to trust and confidence

Enjoyment – Taking pleasure in coming to work at GBRf is actively encouraged right from the top

At GB Railfreight we recognise that having a more diverse range of people leads to greater innovation. We want to create a diverse workforce and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds with the aim to have a workforce representative of wider society. We champion diversity, inclusion and wellbeing and aim to create a workplace in line with our values.