Fire Detection and Information Controller

The Fire Detection and Information Controller is a dual‑role, safety‑critical position within the Railway Control Centre (RCC). The role plays a vital part in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the railway by monitoring fire detection systems, coordinating emergency and maintenance responses, and managing real‑time operational information.

Working as part of a multi‑disciplinary control room team, you will follow established procedures, maintain accurate records, and communicate clearly with internal teams and external partners in both the UK and France.

Fire Detection Controller (FDC)

• Monitor and manage the Fire Detection System in real time across the Running Tunnels and electrical rooms within the Service Tunnel, ensuring all operations meet Minimum Operational Requirements (MORs).

• Identify and analyse active alarms and promptly notify the RCC Supervisor to initiate appropriate emergency or maintenance actions.

• Respond to fire alarms by implementing defined emergency procedures, including alerting emergency and rescue services in both the UK and France (FLOR, SLOR, Rescue Services).

• Report and escalate any incidents or accidents within the tunnel to fire crews and the RCC Supervisor to support a timely and coordinated response.

• Coordinate safe access, movement and positioning of emergency and maintenance vehicles within the Service Tunnel, ensuring the safety of all personnel, including solo workers.

• Operate and manage the Engineering Management System (EMS) lighting interface across all three tunnels.

• Maintain continuous communication with UK and French FLOR teams for all safety‑related events.

• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records within the computerised documentation system, including logbooks, message books and fault logs.

• Comply fully with all safety procedures, policies and documentation relevant to the FDC role.

Information Controller (INFOC)

• Monitor railway operations using the RCC mimic display panel and space‑time graphics, maintaining regular communication with fellow controllers and supervisors.

• Identify and analyse the causes of service disruptions, failures and delays.

• Communicate operational updates to relevant internal departments and external infrastructure and railway partners during degraded operations (including TCCs, ODM, Eurostar, AFC and Fréthun).

• Log and track delay reasons and changes to departure times within the Information System to ensure accurate reporting.

• Assign and update rake numbers and platform changes for rail missions as required.

• Communicate operational updates via SMS to relevant stakeholders throughout the various stages of rail service events.

• Comply fully with all safety procedures, policies and documentation relevant to the Information Controller role.

• Ensure documentation systems remain current to support operational continuity.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Educated to A‑Level standard or equivalent.

• Proficiency in English, with the ability to communicate in French to an intermediate level (B2 or above).

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately within a safety‑critical environment.

• Ability to remain calm and focused when working under pressure.

• Willingness and ability to work a 24‑hour, 7‑day shift roster.

• A valid driving licence to facilitate commuting to the workplace in either the UK or France.

Desirable

• Previous experience working in a railway environment and/or control centre environment.

What to expect

Recruitment Process: 

Given the nature of this role, the recruitment process will include:

• An initial French language competency assessment (informal conversation via Microsoft Teams)

• First‑stage interview

• Psychometric (Safety Competency) testing

• A visit to one of the Railway Control Centres (UK or France)

• Medical assessment in line with the requirements of the role

The proposed start date for training is September 2026.

To find out more about the RCC please watch this video!

If you are interested in applying, please submit your application online by Friday 3rd July 2026.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Please Note: From 1 January 2021, non-British and non-Irish nationals who do not already hold a UK immigration status will be required to obtain a visa in order to be able to work in the UK. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Before applying for this role, please ensure that you are permitted to apply. 
For further information, please visit the UK Visa and Immigration Website.