A train driver drives the engine of a passenger or goods train. The engine may be diesel, electric or diesel-electric.

The Work

You could be:

• inspecting the train – especially the brakes – before starting the journey
• checking – perhaps on computer – that everything is working correctly and safely on the train before a journey begins
• controlling the speed of the train, observing speed limits, weather and track conditions whilst ensuring the train runs safely and on time
• making announcements to passengers
• identifying and dealing with any problems that arise on the train or track
• keeping in touch with control centres by radio
• combining driving with guard duties
• maintaining records of journeys, reporting problems and handing over to the next shift driver.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

ScotRail pay £26,003 during the first year of intensive training. As a newly qualified driver the salary is £35,829. On successful completion of all training and the probation period, the salary is £45,365.

There is also free or reduced rail travel for yourself and your family.

Conditions

• You might drive on long or short journeys.
• You would spend a lot of time sitting in the driver’s cab, usually alone.
• Conditions in the cab are usually reasonably comfortable, but it may be noisy.
• You would have to wear a uniform.
• You would work shifts, including evenings, nights and weekends.
• You might also have to work overtime.
• You are required to live within 45 minutes travel from the depot you are based at.

Getting In

• A good general education is useful. Some employers may prefer you to have some subjects at National 4 or 5, including English, Maths and a scientific or technological subject.
• The application process includes sitting a series of psychometric and aptitude tests.
• If your application is short listed, you attend two assessment days, followed by an interview day.
• You will also need to pass a medical examination to check fitness, eyesight, colour vision, hearing and any misuse of alcohol or drugs.
• You may also have to undergo a psychometric test, to see if your characteristics are suited to the job.
• You may need a satisfactory PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) check to show that you are suitable for this type of work. Contact Disclosure Scotland for details.
• By law you must be over 21 to drive a train.
• You may be able to start with a train operating company as a conductor and be accepted later for driver training.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2018

1867

1.1 %

RISE

2023

1888

  United Kingdom

2018

21283

2.7 %

RISE

2023

21847

LMI data powered by EMSI UK

What Does it Take?

You need to be:

• very reliable and responsible
• aware of health and safety matters
• alert and observant
• smart in appearance.

You need to be able to:

• concentrate for long periods
• communicate clearly
• understand and remember complicated systems and regulations
• work alone
• keep calm and deal with emergencies quickly and efficiently.

Training

• Train operating companies provide comprehensive training for trainee drivers. This usually lasts for 9 to 18 months.
• The training includes classroom sessions on topics such as types of train, company rules and regulations, signalling systems, safe working practices and emergency procedures.
• You would also practice driving under the supervision of an instructor, and learn routes by going out with experienced drivers.
• You would have regular assessments to make sure that you keep up to the necessary standards.

Getting On

• With experience and further training, you may move on to drive high-speed or international trains.
• You may wish to consider becoming a train driving instructor.
• You may also be able to move into a supervisory role or into more general management within the rail industry.

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.