FAQ’s

Do you only accept applications using the forms on the recruitment website?

Yes. This is so we have a consistent and fair process for everyone. We won’t consider applications in other formats.

I am not a British or European national. Can I still apply?

You can apply if you have an up-to-date work permit or visa that lets you work in the UK.

Your work permit or visa must be valid for the duration of the contract for the role.

If you’re applying for a permanent position, you’ll need a work permit or visa, or permanent residency in the UK.

Can you explain the shortlisting process?

Candidates are measured against the essential criteria required for the role. These can be found under the role descriptions.

Those who demonstrate their knowledge, skills and expertise against these criteria will be invited to interview.

What are you looking for in my application to match the criteria?

We’re looking for examples of how you meet the criteria – in work, education or social areas of your life.

Is the closing date flexible?

We work to strict timelines and so don’t accept late applications under any circumstances.

How do I know that you’ve received my application?

You’ll get an email confirming receipt as soon as you submit your online application.

If you don’t receive this confirmation, please check your junk mail. If you still can’t find it, let us know by emailing hs2jobs@hs2.org.uk.

If I apply and I’m not selected, will my details be held and considered for other roles?

During the recruitment process, your application will be visible to all company recruiters and relevant HR personnel and may be considered for a number of future roles with us. For more information about how we manage your personal data please read our personal information charter.

I can’t attend my interview on the date given. Can I request a different date?

We can’t always provide alternative interview dates because of time constraints, but we’ll be as flexible as possible.

Can you cover my interview travel expenses?

We don’t reimburse travel expenses.

If I’m invited for interview, what should I expect?

All our interviews are in panel format, competency-based, and last approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

If you’re invited for an interview, we’ll send you all the details you’ll need to prepare and attend.

How soon after the interview will I know the outcome?

It depends on the panel, how many days the interviews are spread over, and how many candidates are seen – as well as their quality.

Our general approach is to offer the role to the preferred candidate before standing anyone down. Sometimes this can delay the process, and it means you may be informed of the outcome later than you expect.

At what stage are reference checks taken?

If you are successful and we offer you a role with HS2, then we will go through a number of background, security and verification checks before you start.

These include: Previous employment verification, education verification, finance checks and a basic check of unspent criminal convictions.

Some roles may require more in depth background checking, but we will discuss this with you during the application process if this is the case.

Can I get feedback on my application?

We can’t give feedback to people who don’t reach interview stage, because of the high numbers of applications.

If you’ve been interviewed, you can request feedback by emailing hs2Jobs@hs2.org.uk. In the subject field, please put ‘interview feedback request’ and the role you were interviewed for.

It could take us some time to get back to you, because of the numbers of roles we’re interviewing for and the timelines we’re working to – but we haven’t forgotten you.

How do I request a reasonable adjustment?

At HS2 we utilise the Clear Talents tool in our recruitment process. this allows you to tell us about the adjustments you need at the point in the recruitment process you need them. A Clear Talents link is sent to each job applicant. When you complete your profile it will generate a report which allows us to make relevant adjustments should you need them. HS2 is committed to ensuring every applicant can demonstrate their skills and abilities at their best.

Do I have to complete your diversity monitoring form?

No, but completing the form helps us to check that our recruitment campaigns attract a diverse pool of candidates and to create a consistent process that’s fair to everyone

If you’re uncomfortable about filling in the form, you can select the ‘prefer not to complete’ option.

The information you provide in the diversity monitoring form is kept separately – it’s not treated as part of your application. It’s confidential and is only used for statistical purposes.

How do you decide which roles you put out to external candidates and which ones you do not?

We advertise all our vacancies internally and externally, to ensure we attract the most appropriate and diverse talent.

If there are internal candidates applying for the role, is it worth applying?

Our application process is robust and consistent. It’s designed to provide all candidates with an equal opportunity to make the case for how well their skills fit the role.

Candidates are assessed against the key requirements for the role and the core competencies it calls for. The most suitable candidate will be offered the role, whether they are an internal or external candidate.

Where can I research HS2 Ltd, its role and background?

For information about HS2 Ltd and the work we do, please visit our ‘Why HS2‘ page

How can I stay up to date on the latest roles with HS2 Ltd?

All roles will be advertised on our recruitment platform. You can also register for job alerts.

If I’ve applied before, can I apply again?

Yes. We know your skills are always developing and our requirements can change. We’ll be happy for you to apply for any role your skills fit, even if you’ve applied before.

Do you offer relocation?

No, we don’t offer relocation.

What’s the dress code at HS2 Ltd?

Generally, we’re relaxed and operate a smart casual dress policy. A formal dress code is only required for external meetings.

What kind of training can I expect?

We’re keen to support your personal and professional development.

So on top of the mandatory training you have to complete, you can get access to a wide range of learning opportunities to enhance your capability within our organisation.

What are the opportunities for career development?

We’re committed to providing every opportunity for our people to grow their careers. We advertise all our vacancies on our internal job board and we’re already experiencing many internal moves.

We also discuss career plans as part of our regular employee performance reviews, to support our people’s career ambitions.

Will I need to travel much?

Depending on the role, you may be expected to travel to other HS2 Ltd offices, to suppliers’ sites, or along the line of route.