At a Glance
- Tasks: Control train movements and ensure timely departures while maintaining safety standards.
- Company: Join West Midlands Trains, a leader in delivering safe and reliable rail services.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, a great pension, and discounts at over 800 retailers.
- Other info: Commit to a minimum 14-month role for career growth and expertise development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that keeps the trains running smoothly and safely.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
West Midlands Trains delivers around 1,300 train journeys a day, for more than 60 million passengers a year, across our two brands - London Northwestern Railways & West Midlands Railways. We are committed to delivering a safe and reliable train service, by investing in our fleet of trains, stations and employees. As part of this investment we are looking to recruit Shunters on a full-time, permanent basis, based in Shrewsbury. Please note, it will be working permanent night shifts.
You will develop and implement a stabling plan to ensure all arriving units receive the required maintenance. Safely and efficiently control train movements to ensure correct formations for timely departures, in full compliance with Industry Group Standards, Depot Operating Instructions, and Depot Protection Procedures. Ensure timely and planned arrival and departure of traction from the depot. You will carry out key operational tasks, including shunting, CET servicing, tanking, radiator cleaning and replenishing fluids/consumables where suitably trained (e.g. Screen wash and sand). Strictly comply with all applicable instructions, rules, and regulations to ensure safety and operational integrity.
Key Responsibilities- Perform duties as Person in Charge of Sidings (PICOS), Designated Person and PIC when required.
- Follow instructions from the Leadership Team within your competence.
- Prioritise personal and team safety, report near misses, safety concerns, and incidents through the correct process.
- Ensure all traction movements are conducted safely and in compliance with local rules, regulations, and depot procedures.
- Control the arrival and departure of vehicles, including coupling, uncoupling and reformation in line with Industry Group Standards and Depot Operating Instructions.
- Assist with operational tasks such as CET servicing, tanking, radiator cleaning and replenishing consumables (e.g. Screen wash and sand).
- Develop and execute a stabling plan to ensure all units receive the required maintenance.
- Successful completion of required competencies for shunting and related operational tasks.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently at all levels.
- Proven ability to work independently and use initiative in a dynamic operational environment.
- To ensure continuity and an effective delivery of service, successful candidates will be required to commit to a minimum 14-month period in role after achieving competence. This also includes existing colleagues who move by internal promotions and transfers. This time allows our future colleagues to support personal career development by allowing time to build strong knowledge and expertise.
- A defined benefit pension from day 1 – one of the best in the UK.
- Free travel on all London Northwestern and West Midlands Railway services for you, your spouse/partner, and dependents.
- 75% off all other train operating companies for you, your spouse/partner, and dependents.
- 8 Friends and Family Day passes to gift per annum on our network.
- A 24/7 Virtual GP service for you and your household.
- Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential employee benefit that supports you with personal or work-related issues affecting your home life, work life, health, or wellbeing.
- Our cycle to work scheme with Evans Cycles.
- A retail discount portal - offering savings, discounts and cashback at over 800 retailers and restaurants.
Shunter in Shrewsbury employer: WM Trains
West Midlands Trains is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and employee well-being. With a commitment to professional growth, employees benefit from extensive training opportunities and a defined benefit pension from day one, alongside generous travel perks for themselves and their families. Located in Shrewsbury, the company fosters a collaborative environment where team members can thrive while ensuring the smooth operation of vital train services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shunter in Shrewsbury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at West Midlands Trains on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Shunter role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of train operations and safety regulations. We want to see that you’re not just a good fit, but that you’re genuinely passionate about keeping things running smoothly.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you’ve handled challenges in past roles. We love candidates who can think on their feet and keep safety as a top priority.
✨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 team at West Midlands Trains.
We think you need these skills to ace Shunter in Shrewsbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with the Shunter role. We want to see how you can contribute to our commitment to safety and reliability!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since strong verbal and written communication is key for this role, don’t shy away from showcasing these skills in your application. We love candidates who can engage confidently at all levels!
Highlight Your Initiative:We’re looking for someone who can work independently and use their initiative. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated dynamic environments in the past – it’ll make you stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at WM Trains
✨Know Your Shunting Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of shunting operations and safety protocols. Familiarise yourself with terms like PICOS and CET servicing, as well as the specific regulations that govern train movements. This will show your potential employer that you’re serious about the role and understand the responsibilities involved.
✨Demonstrate Safety Awareness
Safety is paramount in this role, so be prepared to discuss how you prioritise safety in your work. Think of examples from your past experiences where you identified risks or reported near misses. This will highlight your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment, which is crucial for a Shunter.
✨Showcase Communication Skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for this position. Be ready to explain how you’ve effectively communicated with team members or leadership in previous roles. You might even want to prepare a scenario where clear communication made a difference in a challenging situation.
✨Prepare for Night Shift Questions
Since this role involves permanent night shifts, expect questions about your adaptability to working at night. Think about how you manage your time and energy during night shifts, and be ready to discuss any strategies you have for staying alert and productive during those hours.
