About the application process.

Stage 1 Online application form

First of all, make sure you meet the relevant degree and eligibility criteria for the programme you're interested in. The online application form asks questions about work experience, interests and motivations, as well as about job-related skills (see 'key qualities' below). Completing the application form should take about half an hour. But don't rush it, and always refer to our 'Hints & Tips'.

 

Stage 2 Online situational judgement, verbal and numeric reasoning tests

Once we have received your application form, and it has been successful, we'll ask you to complete some short online exercises to test your reasoning abilities. 

 

Stage 3 Assessment Centre

This is the day when we can get more of an in-depth understanding of each other. You'll gain a true insight into the Network Rail experience, with realistic, scenario-based exercises plus candid discussions with some of our people. We'll find out more about you through a group discussion, interview and a 1:1 presentation exercise.

 

 

Key qualities

Before applying you need to be honest with yourself and decide whether you really do have the qualities we're looking for. Our graduates will be responsible for creating the future of our business. It's essential that you have a genuine passion for the work that we're doing and its importance for Britain. You need to be committed to getting the best out of the programme, even if it means being mobile and changing locations. You have to take ownership of your own learning and development, knowing that the more you put in, the more you'll get out. Above all, you'll need:

 

Functional skills - the ability to search and distil large amounts of information, analyse solutions and create new ways of doing things. You'll need to apply engineering knowledge or technical expertise with a degree of practical flexibility and commercial realism.

 

Leadership skills - the confidence, credibility and knowledge to influence others at all levels - from trackside crews to senior managers. You're the kind of individual who makes things happen and, as you grow into the organisation, you'll drive change by challenging the status quo.