Drivers
Put simply, the role of a driver is to drive trains safely, punctually and economically within current rules and regulations. But recruiting and training drivers is a complicated business – and rightly so.
We may recruit for either qualified mainline drivers or trainee drivers. These are safety critical roles. For trainee roles, applicants must be at least 21 years old when training commences. The training may take up to a year to complete. The duration of a Qualified Driver's training will depend on the individual candidate’s experience.
If you apply to become a trainee driver with us, you’ll be tested at a Driver Assessment Centre. For either role you’ll also have to pass a medical examination. This examination will include eyesight, hearing and colour vision tests. In addition, you’ll undergo alcohol and drug screening. To be considered, you must also live within reasonable travelling distance of the depot from which you’ll work.
Safety awareness is the most important quality needed by a driver. You’ll need to follow rules and regulations to the letter. That takes a great deal of organisation, high levels of concentration and the capacity to meet strict standards while working alone. Not least, it demands excellent learning skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Driving a train is more than a job; it’s a way of life. Succeed and you’ll drive High Speed or Turbo/Sprinter trains across our network, which could involve working a variety of shifts from a number of depots or stations.