Train Cleaning Team Leader - Nights

FUNCATION: Engineering

GRADE: TPL – Night shift

SALARY: £27,933 per annum

HOURS: 35 per week

ROLE TYPE: Onsite

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on – and that starts with how they look and feel. A clean, welcoming train sets the tone for every journey, whether someone is heading to work, visiting family, or exploring the North.

As part of our Engineering function, you’d be right at the heart of that experience. This role gives you the chance to lead from the front, supporting a team of Train Cleaners to deliver consistently high standards, day in and day out. You’ll be hands‑on, outdoors and onboard our trains, making sure every shift runs smoothly and every train leaves looking its best.

• Leading and supporting a team of Train Cleaners to deliver spotless trains and hygienic working environments.
• Taking responsibility for the successful running of the day shift – organising workloads, allocating tasks, and communicating priorities clearly.
• Working alongside your team to complete cleaning tasks, setting the standard through your own approach and attention to detail.
• Making sure health and safety procedures are followed at all times, including the safe handling of cleaning materials and equipment.
• Responding confidently to challenges on shift, thinking on your feet and managing unexpected cleaning issues that could affect train services – including more demanding tasks such as dealing with spills of blood or vomit, making sure they’re resolved quickly, safely, and in line with procedures.
• Creating a positive, supportive atmosphere where new starters and experienced colleagues feel confident and supported.

Pride, people skills and practicality – that’s what will set you up for success here. You’ll bring:

• The confidence to lead a team and take ownership of a shift from start to finish.
• A strong sense of responsibility for health and safety, with the confidence to follow procedures and encourage others to do the same.
• Clear, effective communication skills – whether you’re briefing your team or working with colleagues from across the business.
• A practical, hands‑on approach and a willingness to muck in alongside your team.
• The ability to stay calm under pressure, think on your feet, and deal with challenging situations when they arise.

You’re comfortable working outdoors and onboard trains in all weathers, adaptable to changing demands, and happy to work weekends and bank holidays when needed. It’s a physically active, hands‑on role too – the kind where hitting a 10,000‑step day is all part of the job, and no two shifts ever feel the same. No previous cleaning experience is required – we’ll give you full training to set you up for success.

• Live within a 45‑minute car journey of the station you’ll work from.
• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Be able to pass a safety‑critical medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening.
• Have no defective colour vision.

• 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 across the business.
• Recognition:
  Our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards celebrate the people who make a difference every day.

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

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