This review provides an overview of the Static Groundstaff position at Freightliner, a leading UK maritime intermodal logistics operator. We aim to highlight the key advantages and considerations for potential candidates, offering guidance for career development.
Freightliner stands out as the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, playing a crucial role in transporting containers from major deep-sea ports to an extensive national network of inland terminals. They are also a significant player in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market, with operations extending across Europe. Recently recognized as the Rail Freight Company of the Year at the 2025 Multimodal Awards, Freightliner demonstrates a commitment to excellence and innovation. The company also emphasizes its dedication to diversity and fostering a supportive work culture.
The Opportunity: Static Groundstaff at Appleford
As a Static Groundstaff member at Freightliner's Appleford location, you will be instrumental in ensuring the safe, punctual, and economical preparation and movement of trains and vehicles. This role operates outdoors, in all weather conditions, and requires a dedicated individual ready to contribute to the smooth running of operations.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Career Progression: Freightliner explicitly states its commitment to fostering growth and providing developmental opportunities, indicating strong potential for career advancement within the company.
- Award-Winning Team: Joining an organization recognized as Rail Freight Company of the Year offers the chance to be part of a successful and reputable team.
- Comprehensive Training: While prior rail experience isn't mandatory, Freightliner values transferable skills and provides training to ensure competency in the role.
- Competitive Remuneration: The role offers competitive pay, with a training salary of £29,237, increasing to £38,983 upon full qualification.
- Excellent Benefits Package: Candidates can expect a fantastic final-salary pension scheme (after an initial qualifying period), enhanced maternity & paternity pay, access to a life assurance scheme, and a range of benefits designed to support work-life balance and offer savings.
- Safety-Centric Culture: Freightliner prioritizes safety and wellbeing, creating an environment where employees are encouraged to be safety-conscious and challenge unsafe practices.
- Diverse Operations: Exposure to a broad spectrum of logistics operations, from maritime intermodal to heavy haul rail, provides a rich learning experience.
Key Considerations for Candidates:
- Outdoor Working Environment: The role requires working outside in all conditions, day or night, throughout the year.
- Safety-Critical Role: This is a safety-critical position that demands strict adherence to rules and procedures. A strong safety-conscious attitude is paramount.
- Working Under Pressure: The dynamic and busy nature of the role means candidates must be comfortable and effective working under pressure.
- Transferable Skills Emphasis: While rail experience is not essential, candidates must clearly articulate how their existing skills in communication, adherence to procedures, and working under pressure align with the job requirements.
- Pre-Employment Checks: Be prepared for standard pre-employment checks, including reference checks, medical and drug & alcohol screening, and a DBS background check.
The role of Static Groundstaff at Freightliner presents a compelling opportunity for individuals seeking a stable, rewarding career in the logistics sector. The company's investment in its employees, combined with its established reputation and commitment to safety, makes it an attractive prospect for career-driven individuals. Successful candidates will find a supportive environment that values their contribution and offers significant potential for professional growth.