Trainee Train Driver - Manchester

Job Overview

Trainee Train Driver – Manchester

Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom.

Salary: £26,901 per annum during training (approx. 12 months) rising to £51,341 in Year 1, £56,349 in Year 2 and £64,772 in Year 3.

Role type: Full time.

Hours: Rolling 35 per week. Shift pattern includes evenings, nights and weekends (e.g. 03:00–10:30, 07:00–16:30, 15:30–00:30, 18:00–02:30).

Responsibilities

• Train Operation: Responsible for the professional operation of trains, ensuring the train adheres to schedule whilst maintaining safe operations.
• Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to safety protocols, including signalling systems, speed limits, and track conditions, to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the public.
• Emergency Response: In the event of an emergency or unexpected situation, respond quickly and appropriately, following established procedures and protocols.
• Continuous Training & Assessments: Undergo regular training and competency assessments to stay updated on safety procedures, regulations, and any changes in operating practices. You will be expected to maintain your own appropriate professional knowledge and keep informed of industry developments.
• Train Inspections: Conduct safety inspections of trains prior to driving and reporting any defects to maintenance staff. Securing the train on completion of your journey and promptly reporting any faults which have arisen during service.
• Record-keeping: Ensure accurate documentation of activities, including departure and arrival times, any incidents or delays, and other relevant information.
• Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with control centres, signal operators, and other relevant personnel to ensure smooth train operations.
• Adaptability: Adapt to changes in routes, weather conditions, or unexpected circumstances while maintaining operational efficiency.
• Preparation for Duty: Manage lifestyle appropriately to ensure adequate rest before shifts; maintain a zero‑tolerance policy regarding recreational drugs and alcohol.

Qualifications & Criteria

• Currently live within a 45‑minute car journey from the station you work from.
• Be at least 20 years of age at the time of application.
• Pass the TDLCR Train Driver medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening.
• Not have defective colour vision.
• Obtain a pass to an enhanced level on the Train Driver Psychometric Assessments, which will be taken as part of the recruitment process. Valid for 5 years and you have only three attempts to complete the psychometrics.
• Commit to working early, late and weekend shifts – without relying on public transport.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to work calmly under pressure and remain focused and vigilant in a high‑pressured environment.
• Maintain high standards of work at all times.
• Exceptional concentration skills within a low stimulus environment, while carrying out repetitive or monotonous tasks.
• Ability to learn and retain large amounts of information and be subject to ongoing competency assessments.
• Self‑disciplined and able to work within rules and regulations.
• Excellent time management skills, ensuring your train departs as scheduled.
• Resilient and adaptable with quick reaction skills.
• Ability to shift priorities to meet other requirements without creating more significant difficulties.
• Diligent with the moral courage to challenge unsafe or unprofessional practices.
• Good communication skills with the ability to build rapport with colleagues and customers.

Important Information – Recruitment Process

• The recruitment process for this role is expected to take approximately six months due to the nature of the position and required training.
• After submitting your application, you may not receive an update for 8‑12 weeks. Please refrain from contacting us for updates before 12 weeks have passed. Successful candidates will be invited to a telephone interview, followed by an in‑person interview, psychometric testing, and conditional offer.
• We do not accept AI applications; any suspected use of AI as part of your application will result in immediate rejection.
• Northern reserves the right to close recruitment for this role before the published closing date if high volumes of applications are received.
• The trainee train driver course is delivered as part of an apprenticeship (2‑year programme).

Benefits

• Free travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner and dependents on Northern services. 75% discount on other networks.
• Generous pension scheme: Company matches 1.5 times employee contributions.
• Enhanced family benefits: 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike.
• Exclusive discounts across a range of services.
• Holiday purchase scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• Employee assistance programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle and more.
• Training and career development: Tailored training and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications.
• Recognition: Northern Lights and Northern Sparks awards.

Why Northern

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment. Join us as we celebrate 200 years of modern railway and move into the era of Great British Rail.

Diversity & Inclusion

We are Level 2 Disability Confident. We offer reasonable adjustments to the application process where required. We encourage applications from all backgrounds. Our talent team ensures a fair and unbiased selection process.

Location Details

Training starts at Northern’s Manchester or Leeds centres, with accommodation provided for candidates living over 1.5 hours away. Travel to Manchester Victoria or Manchester Piccadilly each week.