What skills do you need to be a train driver?

What skills do you need to be a train driver?

Train drivers will need to possess the following skills:

• Good mechanical knowledge.
• Good hand-eye co-ordination.
• The ability to concentrate for long periods of time.
• Physical stamina.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to deal with members of the public.
• Good reaction times.
• A good memory.

Is it hard to become a train driver?

There are many safety rules and precautions involved in train driving and the ability to remain focused and calm is imperative – this role holds a lot of responsibility, so isn’t a job for everyone. On average it takes 12-15 months of intensive training to become a fully qualified driver.

Is train driving stressful?

Patience and the ability to be calm under stress – driving a train will sometimes result in stressful situations, delays and emergencies. You will need to be able to remain calm and resolve situations while keeping your train and passengers safe.

Is there an age limit for Train Drivers?

What is the Train Driver Age Limit? Technically, there is no maximum train driver age limit for driving provided you continue to pass the medicals. If you are starting as a Conductor the minimum age on entry is 18 because it is a safety critical job and you will be handling cash.

Is there an age limit for train drivers?

What age can you be a train driver?

NUMBER 1 – MEET THE MINIMUM AGE TO BECOME A TRAIN DRIVER Most train operating companies require you to be a minimum age of 21 before you can apply.

Can a train driver wear glasses?

Any glasses you are prescribed must be worn on duty and you must carry a spare pair with you at all times. As a matter of interest, driving steam locomotives while wearing glasses is now permitted, but goggles must be worn over them.

What do train drivers wear?

Today most engineers and freight conductors dress in practical clothing with very little uniformity. They may wear a baseball-style cap with their railroad logo on it and steel toe boots, but shirts and pants are left up to the wearer.

Is there a weight limit for train drivers?

Body Mass Index (click here to calculate yours) should not normally exceed 33, however, the doctor may exercise discretion where there is no medical abnormality and mobility is not impaired. BMI should ideally not exceed 28 on entry.

Do you need maths to be a train driver?

What advice do you have for people who want to know how to become a train driver? Maths and English are a must as is a general understanding of mechanics (for repairing faults with trains on the move). They are looking for skills in people that match the role.

How tall are train drivers?

The Train Driver requirements are: Although height limits are not laid down in Railway Group Standards some TOCs will impose their own limits. Ideally, your height should be between 5′ 2″ and 6′ 4″ – so that you fit the cab control desks.

What GCSEs do I need to be a train driver?

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 kind of Education do you need to be a train driver?

No formal qualifications are needed in order to become a train driver. However, train companies will expect to see a good standard of education, with good GCSE grades an advantage. A Level and AS Level grades will also look impressive.

What to look for in a train driver?

Excellent customer service skills. Learn large amounts of job relevant information. Be able to demonstrate good passenger relations. Be safety conscious. Be able to react quickly and calmly. Maintain exceptional levels of concentration. Be capable of working under pressure. Stay cool, calm and responsible.

How many hours does a train driver work?

Train drivers will need to possess the following skills: Train drivers usually work 35 hours per week over 4 days and Sunday’s can be inside or outside of the working week depending which company employs you. Weekend and evening work is common, as is work over a public holiday.

Who is the best person to drive a train?

Train service engineers are the most skilled and experienced. They may drive locomotives with cars attached. Locomotive servicing engineers may operate trains but cannot drive them with cars attached. Student engineers may only operate trains while under the direct supervision of an instructor.