Rail Planner

Join our team: Rail Planner

Together, we move what matters

We are at the start of something powerful. Heavy Haul Rail was created with a simple but transformative belief: the UK deserves a smarter, cleaner, more resilient freight future. And we have the opportunity to build it. 

Every role in this business carries purpose. Whether you work in operational delivery, driving trains, engineering, or business support, the work you do contributes directly to reducing emissions, easing road congestion, strengthening supply chains and powering British industry. This is meaningful work, with real impact. 

Who we are

Previously operating as Freightliner’s Heavy Haul business, we are now an independent company following CMA CGM Group’s acquisition of Freightliner UK’s Intermodal Logistics business in January 2026. 

Heavy Haul Rail is the UK’s next-generation rail freight partner built for a sector ready to evolve. We believe it’s time to move differently. Congested roads, rising emissions, fragile supply chains. These aren’t just logistical challenges; they’re environmental and economic wake-up calls. We’re here to lead the modal shift, helping businesses transition from road to rail with confidence, clarity and measurable impact. 

We move 17 million tonnes of freight a year for customers in the industrial, energy and construction markets. The company operates 95 locomotives and over 1,000 wagons. Heavy Haul Rail’s team of 950 supports customer deliveries to over 100 locations across the UK, running 250 trains per week. 

Heavy Haul Rail also supports the renewal and maintenance of the rail infrastructure and supports passenger train operators and rolling stock companies, including the provision of drivers and route conducting services. 

But none of this happens without our people. We are looking for a Rail Planner to join our team and help shape the future of rail freight planning and delivery. 

What You'll Do

As a Rail Planner, you will play a vital role in developing and delivering robust train plans that keep our operations running safely, efficiently and in line with customer requirements. Working with colleagues across the business and industry partners, you will ensure our services make the best possible use of network capacity while delivering outstanding customer service. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and processing planning bids with Network Rail, including PDNS submissions and Working Timetable (WTT) applications. 
• Creating, timing and submitting timetable amendments to align services with changing customer requirements. 
• Producing effective resource plans including locomotive, wagon, driver and ground staff diagrams. 
• Working closely with customers to deliver weekly train plans that meet operational and commercial needs. 
• Negotiating and agreeing Engineering Access Statements and Train Planning Rules. 
• Collaborating with Network Rail and industry stakeholders to develop new timetable structures and improve network capacity. 
• Supporting new business opportunities through timetable design, resource planning and capacity studies. 
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance planning efficiency and operational performance. 
• Supporting operational teams during disruption or emergency situations, using your planning expertise to help maintain service delivery. 
• Promoting a strong safety culture and ensuring compliance with all relevant HS&E procedures and industry requirements. 

What We're Looking For

We are seeking someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality work.

You will bring:

• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy. 
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressure. 
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive and innovative approach to continuous improvement. 
• Commercial awareness and a customer-focused mindset. 
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the confidence to engage with internal and external stakeholders. 
• A collaborative approach and a desire to contribute to wider business success. 
• High standards of personal accountability, integrity and professionalism. 
• Flexibility, enthusiasm and a drive to achieve results. 

Your Behaviours

Successful candidates will:

• Live and demonstrate Heavy Haul Rail's values every day. 
• Take ownership of objectives and pursue them with energy and determination. </l