Training & Competence Lead (Technical Readiness) Manchester

Training & Competence Lead (Technical Readiness)

Company: CAF Rail UK

Location: MANCHESTER, GB, M40 2BA CHESTER, GB

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Readiness & IOP Delivery
• Lead the initial development journey for new technicians from induction through to Initial Operational Performance (IOP).
• Define, implement, and maintain structured pathways that clearly set out the technical, safety, and behavioural requirements for readiness to operate.
• Ensure technicians are only released to operational duties when competence, confidence, and readiness have been demonstrably achieved.

Competence Management

• Ensure all competence records, assessments, and sign-offs are accurate, auditable, and up to date.
• Monitor progress against competence milestones and intervene early where development is at risk.

Assessment & Assurance

• Design and oversee robust assessment and verification processes, including:
• Workplace assessment
• Knowledge and skills validation
• Practical task observation

Training & Development Oversight

• Work closely with training providers (internal and external) to ensure learning aligns with operational needs.
• Identify gaps between classroom learning and workplace application and address these through structured practice and coaching.
• Support continuous improvement of training materials, delivery methods, and assessment criteria.

Stakeholder & Operational Interface

• Act as the primary point of contact for technical readiness between key elements of CAF Rail UK: Operations, Training & Competence, Learning & Development, HSQE.
• Provide clear, evidence-based recommendations on technician readiness to operational managers.
• Support line managers in understanding competence requirements and development expectations.

Salary

Salary in the region of £46,000 per annum.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant technical qualification (NVQ Level 3 / equivalent or higher).
• Significant experience working in a safety‑critical maintenance environment.
• Experience supporting or delivering technician development, assessment, or mentoring.
• Strong understanding of competence management in a safety‑critical industry.
• Ability to interpret and apply standards, rules, and procedures in an operational setting.

Benefits

• Real Living Wage Employer
• 25 days annual leave
• Workplace pension scheme with up to 10% contribution of CAF Rail UK
• Health care cash plan
• Bike2Work scheme
• Professional Sponsorship scheme
• Flexible Working policy
• Family Friendly culture
• Paid volunteering days
• Promotion of social value initiatives such as tree planting, donation drives, homelessness and refugee support.

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