They look for fit and alert individuals with excellent eyesight and good hearing. A basic understanding of mechanics is also useful, as drivers often deal with faults on the train. Drivers must also have a sense of responsibility, be punctual and reliable, and be good at keeping calm in emergencies. Skill at dealing with people is also an advantage.
Each driver follows a training course and sits exams. Courses last from 22 weeks (London Underground) to 48 weeks (GNER).
Income
Trainee drivers earn from £14,000 to £15,000, but once qualified, immediately earn from £25,000 to £30,000, depending on the train operating company. All drivers within a company get the same amount, but overtime can easily increase this by £1,000 a year. London Underground drivers also get free travel on the Tube.
Train drivers get from 35 to 40 days' holiday a year as they often work unsociable hours, and at bank holidays and weekends.
Perks
Train driving can be ideal for people who want to change career. Training is provided by each of the respective train operating companies, and a recruit will be a fully qualified within a year. The job is not ageist; drivers can be any age from 18. Although there is a high level of responsibility on the job, you don't generally take stress and worry home with you. There is room for promotion to areas from mechanics to management.
Disadvantages
Drivers have to concentrate for long periods of time while alone, and although much of the day can be rather tedious, they have to be alert at all times. Working shifts around the clock, seven days a week, often at irregular hours on bank holidays and at weekends, can be tiring and make it difficult to have a social life.
Tube trains are dirty, and drivers' skin and clothes are filthy after working a shift. It is also dark in the tunnels, and the lack of scenery can get depressing.
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