Who We Are
Join Network Rail ! Where People and Connections Matter
At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team- you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway.
We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our safety vision.
About the role
September 2026 - 2028
Our 2-year Data Analytics graduate scheme will give you the tools, and experience to begin your career at Network Rail, focussing on data.
The scheme is focused and centred around developing your knowledge, experience, and ability in primarily data analytics alongside collaborating with engineering disciplines to widen your knowledge and context of the railway environment, developing systems thinking. We are constantly introducing cutting edge innovative technology and initiatives in an operational railway environment, and you'll be part of that throughout the scheme.
Salary: £32,000 plus a £2,000 welcome bonus
Start date: September 2026
Location: York
What you'll be doing
You will be based within the North and East Route within Network Rail, focussing primarily on infrastructure. Whilst the role is in York, travel will be expected to other depots such as Sheffield, Leeds and Middlesbrough.
The graduate scheme begins with a period of business familiarisation, during which you will gain an awareness and understanding of the railway as a system, and its range of disciplines and teams. This will setup the foundation for your longer-term projects and tasks.
Throughout the scheme, you will be tasked with a range of activities and placements with the aim of delivering data-driven solutions. As part of this, you will learn how to manage and maintain key assets effectively and efficiently.
Who you are matters
At least a 2:1 in any degree subject (or on track towards), in your final year or within a year of graduating.
Strong analytical and modelling skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration.
Experience with programming languages such as Python and SQL.
Desirable to have experience with Power BI, Python packages such as Pandas, Matplotlib and NumPy, Selenium and QGIS/ArcGIS.
Desirable to have rail industry experience.
Application process
Submit your CV (and cover letter - optional).
Applications close 15/06/2026.
Applications will be reviewed by the team.
Applicants will then be offered an interview to enable us to better understand your capabilities.
Successful applicant will be offered the position.
Your experience and skills
The ideal candidate is someone who is curious, motivated, and excited to start a career in data. They enjoy working with numbers and using data to solve problems and improve how things work.
They are a strong thinker who can understand patterns, ask good questions, and turn data into useful insights. They are also a good communicator, able to explain findings clearly to others, even if they are not data experts.
This person works well both independently and as part of a team. They are organised, able to manage different tasks, and open to learning new skills. They are interested in technology and enjoy understanding how systems and teams connect, especially in a complex environment like the railway.