Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive trains safely at our innovative test track and support rolling stock testing.
- Company: Join Porterbrook, a leading name in the UK rail industry with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting innovations in rail and make a real impact on the future of transport.
- Qualifications: GCSE maths and English, mainline train driver license, and excellent safety record required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About us
Porterbrook is the UK's leading rolling stock financier and asset management company. We have been at the heart of the rail network for over three decades with 4000 vehicles in our diverse portfolio of passenger and freight trains. As a partner that adds value to the railway today and for the future, we have invested over £3.5bn in new rolling stock and we are actively looking to invest a further £1bn in the years ahead. Since 2020, this includes over £550 million in new trains, fleet upgrades, traction innovation and rail infrastructure. Sustainability is embedded in our decision making, and we have been named the global sector leader in the annual GRESB sustainability assessment for the last four years.
Our teams are leading some of the most exciting innovations taking place in the railway today at our sites in Derby, London, and the 135-acre Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire - an invaluable asset for the railway to test and trial new traction technologies. The Porterbrook group of companies is wholly owned by supportive long-term institutional investors, fully committed to the future of the UK rail sector.
About the role
A great opportunity for an exceptional Test Track Train Driver to join the Porterbrook team.
Role Purpose
To deliver a professional train driving capability at Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, carrying out all train movements on the site's test track - including testing & commissioning of rolling stock.
Key Responsibilities
- Professional and safe operation of trains at Long Marston RIC in accordance with operational standards, procedures, and protocols.
- Safe delivery of train movements for rolling stock testing & commissioning activities undertaken on the Long Marston RIC test track.
- Adherence to operational safety notices to enable safe delivery of train movements.
- Carry out safety inspections of trains prior to driving - reporting any defects to the Operations Controller, to enable timely rectification.
- Secure trains on completion of movements - reporting any defects that have arisen whilst the train has been operating to the Operations Controller, to enable timely rectification.
- Report any rail infrastructure defects/issues to the Operations Controller to enable timely rectification.
- Respond to emergency or unexpected situations in a professional manner and in accordance with established procedures, to enable safe outcomes and minimise operational disruption.
- Work with the Operations Competence Development Manager to provide mentoring and coaching for members of the Long Marston Depot Driver/Shunter team to support continued development of train driving capability on site.
- Work with the Operations Safety & Standards Manager to drive continued improvement of operational standards, procedures, and protocols.
- Provide contingency Operations Controller support as required.
- Provide additional support to the Operations Manager as required.
- Maintain currency of mainline train driver license.
Skills / Experience
What you'll need to have
- GCSE level maths and English.
- Current mainline train driver license.
- Excellent operational safety record (mainline and depot).
- Pass train driver medical.
- Excellent knowledge of railway operations (mainline & depot).
- Conversant with Railway Rule Book.
- Experience driving electric (25kV) rolling stock.
- Excellent knowledge of train driver non-technical skills in a railway operational environment.
- Experience with carrying out train driving for testing & commissioning of rolling stock.
- Experience working in a rail control centre.
It would be great if you also had
- 3 - 5 years qualified mainline train driving experience.
- Ability to work calmly under pressure and remain focused and vigilant at all times.
- Excellent concentration skills whilst carrying out repetitive or monotonous safety critical tasks.
- Adaptable and resilient with quick reaction skills.
- Self-disciplined and able to work in accordance with defined standards, procedures, and protocols.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Demonstrable experience of delivering a positive and sustaining safe delivery culture in an operational environment.
A great place to work
People are the heart of Porterbrook. Our close-knit team is diverse, supportive and flexible. We have a collaborative work ethic both within the company and with our customers and suppliers. In recognition of this we have been awarded:
- Investors in People Gold accreditation.
- Investors in People 'We Invest in Wellbeing' Gold accreditation.
- National Rail Awards 2023 Fleet Achievement of the Year.
- National Rail Awards 2023 Safety Achievement of the Year.
These accolades reflect the company's dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace where employees are empowered to thrive.
Our benefits
We are seeking the very best talent to join the team, and offer an excellent salary, along with bonus and benefits. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a great organisation with outstanding people and a road map for the future to grow and develop the business. Some of our benefits are listed below:
- 1.5x employer contributory pension scheme.
- Financial wellbeing support.
- Flexible working.
- Enhanced family friendly policies.
- Adoption & Shared Parental Leave benefits.
- Enhanced Armed Forces policies.
- Ongoing support with professional and personal development.
- Long service awards.
- Porterbrook Star awards.
- Healthcare cash plan.
- 25 days' annual leave + Bank Holidays + option to buy and sell up to 5 days' additional leave.
- Additional days annual leave for long service.
- Season ticket loan.
Should you be suitable for the role, the full benefits package will be discussed in more detail during your screening call.
Equal Opportunities
We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us on our journey.
Accessibility
We're committed to helping you perform at your best throughout the recruitment process. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection stages, please get in touch with us at recruitment@porterbrook.co.uk. We'll be happy to discuss how we can assist.
To apply
Please follow the link at the top of this page to send your CV and a covering email with full details of why you would be a great addition to the Porterbrook team, along with details of your current salary and notice period. This vacancy may close at any time once sufficient applications have been received. Early submission of your application is therefore encouraged.
What happens next?
Once your application has been reviewed, our recruitment team will be in contact. Our interview process is typically two stages to ensure a thorough evaluation while providing a chance for you to showcase your skills and fit for our team. This approach allows us to engage in meaningful discussions, assess your qualifications more comprehensively, and ensure a mutual alignment with our company values. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we look forward to meeting you!
Test Track Train Driver - Long Marston in Sheffield employer: Porterbrook
Contact Detail:
Porterbrook Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Track Train Driver - Long Marston in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Porterbrook. Understand their values, recent projects, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Test Track Train Driver. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! During the interview, be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your operational safety record and train driving expertise. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Test Track Train Driver - Long Marston in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Test Track Train Driver role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially any train driving and safety records. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Email: Your cover email is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team at Porterbrook. Be genuine and let your passion for the rail industry come through. We love seeing enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Safety Knowledge: Safety is key in our line of work. Make sure to mention any specific safety protocols or experiences you've had that relate to train operations. We need to know you can keep things safe and sound on the test track!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We encourage early submissions as we may close the vacancy once we have enough applications. Get your CV and cover email in through our website ASAP!
How to prepare for a job interview at Porterbrook
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your railway operations knowledge, especially regarding the Railway Rule Book. Being able to discuss specific protocols and safety standards will show that you're serious about the role and understand the importance of operational safety.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous train driving experiences, particularly any testing and commissioning roles you've held. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've handled safety inspections and reported defects, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Since the role requires quick reactions and the ability to work calmly in unexpected situations, think of scenarios where you've successfully managed stress. Share these stories during the interview to highlight your adaptability and resilience.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in rail technology. This not only shows your interest in Porterbrook but also aligns with their values, making you a more attractive candidate.