Train Planning Apprentice

Avanti West Coast • Apprenticeship • Birmingham, England, United Kingdom • £35.48k / year • 1d ago

Posted 03 July 2026

LocationBirmingham

Job type Fixed Term - Full Time

Reference040052

Job FunctionHeadquarters

Are you looking for an exciting and dynamic opportunity to kickstart your career?

We have a unique and exciting opportunity for an Apprentices to join us on a 18 Month fixed term basis in the Train Planning Team as we look to build future talent in this critical operational side of our business.

We are seeking motivated individuals to join our growing team and gain valuable experience across the disciplines of Network Development & Planning, Operations, and the wider business.

As an apprentice you will have the unique opportunity to work alongside various departments, organizations, and industry partners involved in planning our train services. Your initial induction will provide hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of the industry.You will then have the chance to support our Network Development & Planning team in crucial activities such as engineering access planning, timetable development, train planning, and traincrew diagramming. This role will allow you to develop new skills, expand your knowledge, and gain invaluable experience in a fast-paced and dynamic environment

Key Accountabilities:

To develop and support the team with a programme of activities including:
Developing an understanding and basic competency in key train planning disciplines, including timing and unit diagramming.
Developing an understanding and basic competency in traincrew diagramming, supporting the STP Traincrew Diagramming Manager as required.
Assisting the Engineering Access Planning Manager with managing the Engineering Access Process, and identifying operational impacts.
Development of Rail Replacement plans for key engineering works, evaluating these based on demand and reservations data, and engaging with suppliers, managing invoicing and cost management.
Build knowledge and appreciation of Track Access and Network Change processes, including the Schedule 4 compensation regime, attending industry meetings as required alongside other colleagues to grow understanding

Benefits include:

Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

Interested? Take a look at the role profile

Apply now to join our team and make a difference at Avanti West Coast.

Be You. With Us.

At Avanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced, and everyone is supported to thrive.

We welcome individuals of all races, religions, ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Our goal is to reflect the communities we serve and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

When you join Avanti West Coast, you become part of a close-knit team that encourages authenticity. We want you to bring your whole self to work. No need to change who you are to fit in. Your individuality is what makes us better.

We celebrate it, we respect it and we put it to great use.