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- Tasks: Drive trains safely and on time, ensuring customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join Grand Central, a community-focused train operator connecting the North East and London.
- Benefits: Enjoy unlimited free travel for you and your family, plus a contributory pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values safety, customer service, and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Must hold a full UK Train Driving licence and have recent driving competency.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with occasional overnight stays in London; full training provided.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Join the Grand Central Team as a Qualified Driver – Future Vacancies!
Organisation; Grand Central
Location: Sunderland
About Us:
We are an open-access train operator linking the North East and West Yorkshire with London, which means we don\’t get any sort of help from the government and our only loyalty is to our customers – it\’s in our interest to give you the best journey possible. We\’ve been connecting London Kings Cross, Yorkshire and the North East since 2007. Calling at the smaller stations means we\’re always looking to be active in the local community, through our various social responsibility programs and helping local organisations.
The Role:
As a Train Driver it is your responsibility to ensure our customers reach their destination in a safe manner and on time. Our drivers work hard to maintain high levels of route and train knowledge to ensure that safety is kept at the forefront of our operations.
Although most of the time you will be working on your own in the driver’s cab, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with others in the wider team, including your Conductor, Dispatch and Control colleagues, and of course our customers.
You will work on a roster based on a 35 hour working week with varying shift lengths. A flexible approach towards shift working is required as sometimes you can start at 0300, sometimes you can finish at 0200, though Rosters are provided in advance so you can plan. You will also be required to lodge on occasion in London overnight.
Full route training will be provided to successful applicants. Roles are based on a 35 hour working week over 7 days, averaged out over the roster cycle period.
What will be involved:
Maintain currency of route or traction knowledge and notify line manager immediately of any route or traction knowledge shortfalls
Prepare, drive and dispose of traction units safely and as set out by the relevant instructions.
Communicate effectively with and assist staff and customers in the interests of safety and customer service
Undergo competence/proficiency assessments as required by company procedures and the Safety Management System (SMS).
Comply with all relevant rules, procedures and policies.
What You Bring:
Train Driver – you must possess a full UK Train Driving licence and hold competency within the last 24 months
Knowledge – Thorough knowledge of operational rules, regulations, instructions relating to train driving
Skills – ability to remain calm under pressure, remaining alert and vigilant at all times, customer focused, punctual and reliable
You must live within 60 minutes drive of the depot or be able to relocate for the role.
Grand Central Benefits:
Contributory Pension Scheme: Arriva Workplace Pension Plan (AWPP) provided by Standard Life
Unlimited Free Travel for you and your immediate family on all Grand Central services. In addition, we currently offer concessionary travel on other Arriva Trains UK franchises.
Employee Assistance Programme provided by Health Assured: free, confidential 24-hour telephone counselling and information services.
Benefits available upon completion of probation period (3-6 months):
Friends & Family Passes pro-rata allocation of return standard class journeys (terms & conditions apply)
Company Medical Insurance provided by AXA PPP Healthcare (taxable benefit)
Company Wellness Package (including dental/optical treatment) provided by WPA (taxable benefit).
Child Care Vouchers Scheme
Cycle to Work Scheme
Arriva Village employee rewards and benefits scheme
Ready to start your next journey?
If you’re passionate about making a difference and supporting our Grand Central Team, we want to hear from you!
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Qualified Train Driver employer: Arriva
Contact Detail:
Arriva Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Qualified Train Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Grand Central's routes and services. Understanding the specific areas they operate in will not only help you during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Grand Central employees. Engaging with them on platforms like LinkedIn can provide you with insider knowledge about the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions that assess your ability to handle pressure and communicate effectively. As a Train Driver, you'll need to demonstrate your calmness under pressure and your commitment to customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your recent driving experience and any relevant training you've completed. Highlighting your up-to-date qualifications and knowledge of operational rules will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Qualified Train Driver
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Qualified Train Driver. Familiarise yourself with the job description and the skills required, such as maintaining route knowledge and effective communication.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise your train driving licence, any previous driving experience, and your ability to work under pressure.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention your commitment to safety and customer service, and how your values align with Grand Central's mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and presented professionally.
How to prepare for a job interview at Arriva
✨Know Your Routes
Familiarise yourself with the routes that Grand Central operates. Understanding the key stations and any potential challenges will show your commitment and preparedness for the role.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Be ready to discuss safety protocols and how you ensure passenger safety while driving. Highlight any previous experiences where you had to make quick decisions under pressure.
✨Effective Communication Skills
Since you'll be working closely with conductors and control staff, emphasise your ability to communicate clearly and effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with a team in the past.
✨Flexibility and Adaptability
Show that you're open to varying shift patterns and can adapt to changes in your schedule. Share any experiences where you've successfully managed unexpected changes in your work routine.
