Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive trains safely on our test track and support innovative railway projects.
- Company: Join Porterbrook, a leader in sustainable rail finance and asset management.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and excellent professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and supportive workplace with a focus on employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving the future of rail innovation.
- Qualifications: Must have a mainline train driver license and strong safety record.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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. 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. 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. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we look forward to meeting you!
Test Track Train Driver employer: Porterbrook
Contact Detail:
Porterbrook Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Track Train Driver
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Porterbrook and its values, especially their commitment to sustainability. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. It’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Think about potential scenarios you might face as a Test Track Train Driver and how you'd handle them. Practising your responses can help you stay calm and collected during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Porterbrook team!
We think you need these skills to ace Test Track Train Driver
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 in train driving and safety protocols. 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! Share why you’re excited about joining Porterbrook and how your background makes you a great fit. Keep it professional but let your personality show through!
Showcase Your Safety Record: Safety is key in our industry. Be sure to mention your excellent operational safety record and any relevant certifications. We love candidates who prioritise safety as much as we do!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Porterbrook team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Porterbrook
✨Know Your Safety Protocols
Make sure you’re well-versed in the operational safety standards and protocols relevant to train driving. Brush up on the Railway Rule Book and be ready to discuss how you’ve adhered to safety measures in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your experience with electric rolling stock and any specific instances where you’ve successfully carried out testing and commissioning. Highlight your mainline train driving experience and how it relates to the role at Porterbrook.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples where you’ve had to respond to unexpected situations or emergencies while driving. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you ensured safety and minimal disruption during those times.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Porterbrook values a collaborative work ethic, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked with others in a rail control centre or similar environment. Share experiences where you’ve mentored or coached colleagues, as this aligns with their focus on team development.