What are the benefits of being a train driver in the UK?

What are the benefits of being a train driver in the UK? As a part of the rail industry, you will reap all benefits provided from the industry, such as free or discounted travel on the rail company route you work for, reduced rate on UK rail routes, discounts on international rail travel (rail companies across Europe and Australia), and excellent pension benefits.

Is it hard to become a train driver in the UK?

The training usually takes around 12-18 months to complete, and you'll need some GCSEs in English and maths to apply. start work as a rail passenger assistant or train conductor. You can then apply for a trainee driver position. apply directly to a rail company to become a trainee driver.

Do train drivers work Christmas Day?

This is supplemented by a variable number (typically eight to ten) of odd days – floaters – to be taken off, by application, when you want. Bank Holidays are nowadays treated as ordinary working days, apart from Christmas Day & Boxing Day when the railway virtually shuts down and almost everyone is booked off anyway.

Can train drivers wear glasses?

No pathological condition of the eyes likely to cause visual impairment shall be present. Bi-focal spectacles are permitted but photo-chromatic and vari-focal lenses are prohibited. Your optician should be able to advise you as to whether you meet these standards.

Do you need a degree to be a train driver UK?

You do not always need specific qualifications to be a Train Driver, although most employers will expect you to have a good general standard of education, including GCSEs in Maths and English. Some mechanical or electrical knowledge may also be useful.

How many hours do train drivers work UK?

Train drivers work 35 hours per week, spread over 4 to 5 shifts (also known as turns). These may include weekends, evenings, nights and Bank Holidays. Freight engine drivers tend to work more night shifts and do long-distance routes, which often entails overnight stays away from home.

Can a foreigner be a train driver in UK?

You must have the right to live and work in Britain and have a good standard of written and spoken English. Foreign train driving qualifications are not recognised on Network Rail or vice-versa.

Is there a age limit to become a train driver UK?

The minimum age for a train driver on Network Rail lines is 21; 18 on the London Underground or for employment wholly within depot confines. Remember that these are only legal minimums; the way the industry works these days means you will probably be well above these ages before you get a driving job.

What qualifications do you need to be a train driver UK?

You can apply directly to a train operating company to become a trainee driver. Employers usually expect you to have GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. Training can last between 12 and 24 months.

What do train drivers do all day?

Complying with professional and federal rules and regulations relating to train operation and safety. Monitoring the speed, air pressure and other operational measurements of the train. Using mechanical controls such as throttles and air brakes to control the speed and motion of the train.

What is a train driver called UK?

In the US, they're called “train engineers”. In the UK and other English-speaking countries, I believe they're called “train operators”.

How do train drivers go to the toilet?

Some train drivers are changing sanitary towels in bushes by the side of the track – that's outrageous in a first world country in 2021. Others urinate or defecate into carrier bags and bottles.

Are train drivers in demand UK?

A train driver is a sought-after role across every train operating company for which the number and calibre of applicants is very high.

Is a Train Driver a good job UK?

A job in the UK rail industry can be rewarding, lucrative, and a promising career pathway. Every day, millions of people across the UK take a train, and for many, it's essential to the way they live their lives. Train drivers play a critical role in getting passengers to their destination safely and promptly.

Where do train drivers get paid the most?

The average Train Driver in the US makes $47,287. Train Drivers make the most in San Francisco, CA at $70,953, averaging total compensation 50% greater than the US average.

What are the top 3 priorities of a train driver?

What are the downsides of being a train driver?

The major problems were safety issues (fatal train accidents, persons on the track, vandalism, sudden signal changes, no emergency communication system in the driver's cabin), the high demand for mental concentration, irregular working hours, and ear discomfort on entering tunnels.

Do train drivers get free travel UK?

As a part of the rail industry, you will reap all benefits provided from the industry, such as free or discounted travel on the rail company route you work for, reduced rate on UK rail routes, discounts on international rail travel (rail companies across Europe and Australia), and excellent pension benefits.

Do train drivers earn more than doctors UK?

Research from Glassdoor discovered that train drivers on average are paid £3,190 more than doctors. Glassdoor found key workers get paid: Train Driver, average median annual base pay: £54,959 in London £54,974 outside London.

What happens if you miss your train in England?

If you have an Advance ticket, you can get the next train operated by the same company that's specified on your ticket. If there's widespread disruption, or a very long wait until the next train (over 60 minutes), then you should be accommodated on a different company at no extra cost.