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SOC 8133 Process, plant and machine operatives

Energy plant operatives Salary

Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.

About this role

Rail construction and maintenance operatives build, maintain and repair railway track, signalling infrastructure and overhead line equipment. They work on the national rail network, London Underground and light rail systems.

Key responsibilities

  • Installing and maintaining railway track and pointwork
  • Repairing rail defects and replacing sleepers and ballast
  • Working on signalling and telecommunications infrastructure
  • Operating track maintenance machinery
  • Working safely within Network Rail procedures and PTS requirements

Qualifications and entry routes

PTS (Personal Track Safety) certification is mandatory for on-track working. Network Rail-specific training and competences. NVQ in Railway Engineering. CSCS card for construction-adjacent work. Sentinel card system for track access.

Career outlook

Major investment in rail infrastructure including HS2 creates strong demand. Night and weekend working is standard. Signalling and overhead line specialisms offer higher earnings.

Key skills

Track maintenance PTS compliance Physical fitness Working at night Safety critical awareness

Common industries

  • Network Rail
  • Rail contractors
  • London Underground
  • Light rail systems
  • HS2

Data coverage

SOC code 8133
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2025

Median Salary

N/A

Mean Salary

£52,510

Jobs (000s)

N/A

Data Years

11 years

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Nominal growth: +21.5%Real growth: -4.6%