** If you have been through the interview or assessment process for a Trainee Train Driver role (in any location) within the last 6 months and were unsuccessful, then please do not re-apply as regrettably, your application will not be considered.
If you are currently in the process for Trainee Train Driver this advert will not impact your application, please do not re-apply.**
** Please note the response for this advert is anticipated to be high so Transport for Wales reserves the right to close the advert when we receive sufficient applications. Therefore early submission is advised as this advert may close early.**
Becoming a Train Driver:
No previous experience is needed for the role, as our Trainee Driver Academy Programme will prepare you fully for life on the Network. The important part is that you are passionate, professional, and motivated to learn, with an understanding of the importance of safety, performance, and customer service.
On appointment into a Trainee Driver role, you will be enrolled into the Driver Apprenticeship – the first of its kind for Wales - which will lead to a nationally recognised qualification in train driver operations.
The role of a Train Driver is highly skilled, and an extensive training programme is provided for all Trainee Train Drivers. During the initial 11 weeks of our apprenticeship programme, you will be taught train driving theory within the classroom, including having the opportunity to apply all you have learnt on our new state-of-the-art train simulators. You will then spend approximately 24 weeks with an experienced instructor out on our Network.
At the end of the training, you will be fully assessed in all aspects of the role by one of our experienced Driver Team Managers.
This could be the start of a fantastic career on the Railway, offering the chance to progress your career in many different directions.
Whilst you would be solely responsible for driving the train, you will also be part of an integrated wider team, working with other areas of the business to provide the best service to our customers.
Role responsibilities:
Our training team will prepare you for all responsibilities of the role, which will include:
- Moving trains between our various stations and depots safely
- Learning and understanding nationally agreed rules, regulations and operational instructions
- Responding to out of course situations as they arise and carrying out emergency procedures in accordance with rules and regulations
- Complying with the 'Drivers' Safety Responsibility Statement
- Completing written and verbal reports
- Participating in ongoing training as required
To be successful in this training, we are looking for people who:
- Understand the importance of rules, regulations and strict instructions
- Are always very safety conscious
- Are resilient and resourceful
- Are able to concentrate for long periods of time
- Are able to remain cool, calm and responsible
- Are committed to delivering great customer service
- Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills
Essential requirements for the role:
- You must live within one hour of your chosen depot
- You must be 21 or over for legal purposes (applications will be accepted from candidates who are 20 years old, however you will not be able to commence shift work until you turn 21)
- You must be able to work a varied shift pattern we work 24 hours so will include night shift and early mornings. Therefore, must have suitable travel arrangements in place
- You will be required to undertake a medical examination that will include a Drug & Alcohol test
- You must be able to provide a high level of commitment whilst balancing and fulfilling the training requirements and a new role
Desirable requirements for the role:
- Level 2 essential skills in Maths, English and IT or equivalent such as A-C grade in GCSE Maths, English and IT, or alternatively you will need to complete the Essential Skills qualification during the training to fulfil the requirement of the Apprenticeship Scheme
Transport for Wales encourages individuals from under-represented group to join so we can achieve a workforce representative of our communities.
Benefits of coming on board:
- 35-hour week over a 4-day week
- Free travel on TfW services for you and free leisure travel for dependants
- 75% discount on other Rail Services for you and your dependants
- Pension scheme with additional voluntary contribution (AVC)
- Salary sacrifice schemes (cycle to work, electric car scheme)
- Discounted benefits for you and your family (Reward Gateway)
If successful in your application, the next stages of the process will include:
- Industry-wide Driver Assessments that will be undertaken at our Assessment Centre in Cardiff
- A full medical check in line with the Rail Industry Standard (RIS-3451-TOM Train Drivers) and Train Driving Licences & Certificates Regulations 2010
Offer of employment:
If successful following the recruitment process, you will be held in our ‘Talent Pool’ for up to 2 years from the date of your paper assessment until a training course becomes available. If you are not allocated to a course after this time, you will need to re-apply and complete the process again.
Once a start date is confirmed, you will be required to attend a medical appointment and undergo basic background and reference checks. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory medical and background checks and a satisfactory 6-month probation period.
Good luck with your application - we look forward to hearing from you!