Trainee Train Driver (Machynlleth)

£41,531 increasing to £76,073 once fully qualified.

If you have undertaken the interview or assessment process for a Trainee Train Driver role (in any location) within the last 6 months and were unsuccessful, then please do not re-apply as regrettably, your application will not be considered. If you are currently in the process for Trainee Train Driver this advert will not impact your application, please do not re-apply.

Please note the response for this advert is anticipated to be high so Transport for Wales reserves the right to close the advert when we receive sufficient applications. Therefore early submission is advised as this advert may close early.

The Role

The Train Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of trains carrying our customers across the Transport for Wales (TfW) network. We welcome applications from individuals who have completed secondary education and are interested in a railway career. Although the minimum age for train driver licensing is 18, you can apply to join our Talent Pool in advance. Applicants must be at least 17 years and 9 months old before starting training, and applications will be progressed once this age requirement is met.

Transport for Wales encourages individuals from under-represented groups to join so we can achieve a workforce representative of our communities. No previous experience is needed for the role, as our Trainee Driver Academy Programme will prepare you fully for life on the Network. The important part is that you are passionate, professional, and motivated to learn, with an understanding of the importance of safety, performance, and customer service.

On appointment into a Trainee Driver role, you will be enrolled into the Driver Apprenticeship – the first of its kind for Wales - which will lead to a nationally recognised qualification in train driver operations. The role of a Train Driver is highly skilled, and an extensive training programme is provided for all Trainee Train Drivers. During the initial 11 weeks of our apprenticeship programme, you will be taught train driving theory within the classroom, including having the opportunity to apply all you have learnt on our new state-of-the-art train simulators. You will then spend approximately 24 weeks with an experienced instructor out on our Network.

Role responsibilities

• Move trains between our various stations and depots safely.
• Learn and understand nationally agreed rules, regulations and operational instructions.
• Responding to out of course situations as they arise and carrying out emergency procedures in accordance with rules and regulations.
• Comply with the 'Drivers' Safety Responsibility Statement.
• Complete written and verbal reports.
• Undertake ongoing training as required.

Our training team will prepare you for all responsibilities of the role.

Who we're looking for

To be successful in this training, we are looking for people who:

• Understand the importance of rules, regulations and strict instructions.
• Are always very safety conscious.
• Are resilient and resourceful.
• Are able to concentrate for long periods of time.
• Are able to remain cool, calm and responsible.
• Are committed to delivering great customer service.
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Essential requirements for the role:

• You must live within one hour of your chosen depot.
• You must be able to work a varied shift pattern; we work 24 hours so will include night shifts and early mornings.
• You will be required to undertake a medical examination that will include a Drug and Alcohol test.
• You must be able to provide a high level of commitment whilst balancing and fulfilling the training requirements and a new role.

Desirable requirements for the role:

• Level 2 essential skills in Maths, English and IT or equivalent such as A-C grade in GCSE Maths, English and IT, or alternatively you will need to complete the Essential Skills qualification during the training to fulfil the requirement of the Apprenticeship Scheme.

Becoming a Train Driver

At the end of the training, you will be fully assessed in all aspects of the role by one of our experienced Driver Team Managers. This could be the start of a fantastic career on the Railway, offering the chance to progress your career in many different directions. Whilst you would be solely responsible for driving the train, you will also be part of an integrated wider team, working with other areas of the business to provide the best service to our customers.

If successful in your application, the next stages of the process will include:

• Industry-wide Driver Assessments that will be undertaken at our Assessment Centre in Cardiff.
• Operational Interview.
• A full medical check in line with the Rail Industry Standard (RIS-3789-TOM Train Drivers) and Train Driving Licences and Certificates Regulations 2010.

Offer of employment:

If successful following the recruitment process, you will be held in our ‘Talent Pool' for up to 5 years from the date of your paper assessment until a training course becomes available. If you are not allocated to a course after this time, you will need to re-apply and complete the process again. Once a start date is confirmed, you will be required to attend a medical appointment and undergo basic background and reference checks. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory medical and background checks and a satisfactory 10-month probation period.

Welsh Language Skills

While not essential for this role, Welsh language skills would make a great addition to your application. TfW support anyone who wants to learn Welsh or improve their skills. We offer online learning, classroom courses and funding attendance at local community courses.

We're changing the way the transport industry looks. By celebrating and embracing differences, we're building a workforce that represents Wales. We need talented people from all backgrounds and cultures to bring their perspectives and experiences. Diverse teams make better decisions and drive innovation. Join us in transforming the way Wales travels.

Who we are

Transport for Wales is changing the way Wales travels, making sustainable transport the first choice. We're building a multimodal integrated transport network called the T Network, making it easier for people to travel by train, bus, walking, wheeling and cycling.

Next steps

We're a Disability Confident Leader. Let us know about any reasonable adjustments you may need in the recruitment process and as part of the role if you are successful. This advert will close at 23:59 on the day of the application closing date stated above. Please ensure you complete the whole application process by the closing date. Failure to do so will result in your application being withdrawn.