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Principal Consultant – Rail Operations, Performance
AtkinsRéalis. Lead and deliver rail operations, timetable planning, capacity assessment and performance analysis studies .
Core Competencies
Role fitCore Competencies
Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.
Demonstrates expertise in rail operations, timetable planning, and capacity assessment, with a strong focus on delivering evidence-based recommendations and managing complex projects. Proven ability to engage with stakeholders and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams to enhance network performance and passenger outcomes.
Highest-signal resume keywords
Timetable Planning Software (TPS, Attune)Rail Industry ExperienceAnalytical SkillsProject Management SkillsClient-Focused Mindset
ATS Keywords
Tailor your resumeApplicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills
Timetable Development ProcessesCapacity AnalysisRailway Operational PlanningRailway Performance ModellingTrain Running Time AnalysisOperational Simulation TechniquesBid PreparationCommercial ManagementResource PlanningStrategic Studies
Soft Skills
Excellent Written CommunicationExcellent Verbal CommunicationOrganisational SkillsCollaborative ApproachAdaptability
Certifications & Qualifications
Chartered StatusProfessional Accreditation
Industry Keywords
Network RailTrain Operating Company (TOC)Freight Operating Company (FOC)Rail Enhancement SchemesUK Rail ProgrammesInternational Rail ProjectsDepartment for TransportStakeholder EngagementOperational ReadinessRolling Stock Operations
About the role
Key responsibilities & impact- Lead and deliver rail operations, timetable planning, capacity assessment and performance analysis studies
- Provide technical advice and operational insights for infrastructure, enhancement and strategic planning projects
- Develop and communicate evidence-based recommendations to improve network performance, capacity and passenger outcomes
- Manage technical work packages to programme, quality and budget requirements
- Build client relationships and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams
- Support business development through proposal preparation and technical input to bids
- Work across major rail enhancement, infrastructure, operational and strategic planning projects
- Contribute to high-profile rail projects and influence strategic decisions
- Help customers solve complex rail operations challenges alongside specialists in rail modelling and timetabling
Requirements
What you’ll need- Proven experience using industry-standard timetable planning software, such as TPS or Attune, to develop and deliver high-quality railway timetables
- Experience in timetable and capacity analysis to support scheme development would be advantageous
- Strong rail industry experience gained within Network Rail, a Train Operating Company (TOC), Freight Operating Company (FOC), or a similar train planning environment
- In-depth knowledge of timetable development processes and railway operational planning principles
- Ability to take ownership of key workstreams and deliver projects from inception to completion
- Excellent analytical skills, including interpreting complex datasets, identifying key insights, and developing practical, evidence-based recommendations
- Client-focused mindset and ability to tailor technical outputs and communications for varied audiences
- Confidence engaging with rail industry stakeholders, including the Department for Transport, Network Rail, Train Operating Companies, Freight Operators, and other sector partners
- Strong organisational and project management skills, including prioritising competing demands and delivering outputs to agreed timescales and budgets
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including reports, presentations, and client-facing deliverables
- Collaborative approach to multidisciplinary teamwork and ability to work independently when required
- Enthusiasm, adaptability, and willingness to contribute across a diverse consultancy project portfolio
- Degree in Engineering, Transport Planning, Mathematics or a related discipline is desirable
- Knowledge of railway performance modelling, train running time analysis and operational simulation techniques is desirable
- Experience supporting railway enhancement schemes, strategic studies or business case development is desirable
- Understanding of rolling stock operations, depot planning and operational readiness activities is desirable
- Experience in bid preparation, commercial management and resource planning is desirable
- Chartered status or actively working towards professional accreditation is desirable
- Experience working on major UK rail programmes and/or international rail projects is desirable
- Role may require security clearance
- If clearance is required, candidates may need to provide proof of residency in the UK for 5 years or longer
Benefits
Comp & perks- Flexible and remote working options
- Reduced working weeks
- Option to buy more leave over school holidays
- Support for returning from a career break
- Competitive salaries
- Employee rewards
- Tailorable health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle benefits
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Hybrid working culture
- Flexible holiday allowances
- Family-friendly and inclusive employment policies
- Flexible working arrangements
- Employee resource groups
- Disability Confident interview commitment for applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria