At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage train drivers to ensure operational safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join First Rail London, part of a leading rail operator in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel on TfL network and discounts on season tickets.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with flexible working options and support for diverse needs.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on train performance and customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Must have full train driver competence and knowledge of safety regulations.
Who are we
First Rail London (FRL) is the train operating company responsible for running the London Overground network under a concession agreement with Transport for London (TfL). The concession began in May 2026.
FirstRail London is part of FirstGroup, one of the leading rail operators and one of the largest bus operators in the UK. FirstGroup operates services throughout the UK and Ireland, with over 30,000 employees providing services that make travel smoother and life easier. FirstGroup works hard to reduce its impact on the environment, introducing cleaner and more environmentally responsible methods of transport.
About the job
To lead a Shunters & Train drivers in ensuring operational safety. Carry out fitness and competence assessments of drivers and ensure that drivers are utilised in the most effective and economic manner possible so as to ensure the reliable operation of the train plan. Contribute to improving train performance and achieve customer satisfaction targets.
Your main responsibilities will be:
- Manage the deployment of drivers to ensure the business needs are met in terms of efficient and economical operation.
- Carry out the provision of the disciplinary procedures, welfare arrangements and health and safety at work as delegated.
- Carry out competency assessments and monitoring of drivers and trainee drivers at the frequency and in the manner specified as set down in company procedures.
- Carry out and record fitness for duty checks of drivers and trainee drivers at the frequency and in the manner specified in company procedures.
- Carry out briefings of drivers and trainee drivers at the frequency laid down in company procedures using corporate and departmental briefing material and incorporating any local requirements identified by the Traincrew Managers.
- In accordance with company procedure requirements, make recommendations to the appropriate Traincrew Manager concerning any driver that may require additional monitoring due to identified sub-standard performance or other factor. Apply special monitoring plans in respect of such identified drivers.
- Implement the safety standards (developed by the Operations Standards Manager) at driver depots.
- Ensure six monthly safety checks are carried out to meet safety validation requirements.
- Ensure remedial actions from all audits are addressed and closed out.
- Ensure all operating incidents are reported and investigated.
- Ensure that all staff performing Safety Critical work are assessed and monitored
As a minimum, you will need to have:
- Full train driver competence for a minimum of a five-year period.
- Good knowledge of traction/traincrew matters, including conditions of service, rostering practices,disciplinary procedures.
- Should be capable of improving levels of driver performance in terms of safety and discipline and to manage effectively staff inter-relationships within driver depots and between depot staff and other members of staff.
- Qualified in rules and regulations competence and knowledge of traction instructions.
About the location
Chingford Station
The Reward
- Free Travel for you and a nominated person at your address on TfL Network - this alone is worth a potential total of £5,200 per annum
- 75% discount off season tickets and leisure travel on other Train Operating Companies
- Discounts on European rail services after 1 year of service
- First Xclusives – a benefits portal offering a wide range of benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme - 24hr helpline, covering a multitude of subjects
We all belong at First Rail London.
FirstGroup's vision is to provide an inclusive environment for all colleagues, across its group of businesses, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment.
We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA+, ethnicity, religion, and disability. We maintain a zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent.
We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive.
We review all roles and job descriptions to ensure they are accessible and, where possible, we support and provide flexible working options; we recommend that you refer to each vacancy description for further details.
If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below. We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.
https://exceptionalindividuals.com/neurodiversity/
https://www.healthassured.org/blog/neurodiversity/
Driver Manager employer: FirstGroup plc
GWR, as part of FirstGroup plc, is an exceptional employer that champions a dynamic and inclusive work culture in the heart of London Paddington. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we offer unique opportunities to engage in innovative retail initiatives within the railway sector, all while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working arrangements. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values your contributions and prioritises customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Driver Manager
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
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✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by FirstGroup plc. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Driver Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at FirstGroup plc, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at FirstGroup plc and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into FirstGroup plc. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at FirstGroup plc
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at FirstGroup plc.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to FirstGroup plc.
