Overview
Northern, Blackpool, England, United Kingdom
JOB TITLE: Trainee Train Driver
SALARY: £26,016 per annum during training (approx. 12 months) rising to £49,652 in Year 1, £54,496 in Year 2 and £62,642 in Year 3.
ROLE TYPE: Full Time
LOCATION: Blackpool
HOURS: Rolling 35 per week. Shift pattern includes evenings, nights and weekends (for example: 03:00–10:30, 07:00–16:30, 15:30–12:30, 18:00–02:30).
AVAILABLE TRAINING COURSE DATES: This recruitment is for 2026 courses, with the first course commencing in February 2026.
Please note: We may close this advert early.
What you'll be doing
* Train Operation: Responsible for the professional operation of trains, ensuring the train adheres to schedule whilst maintaining safe operations.
* Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to safety protocols, including signalling systems, speed limits, and track conditions, to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the public.
* Emergency Response: In the event of an emergency or unexpected situation, respond quickly and appropriately, following established procedures and protocols.
* Continuous Training & Assessments: Undergo regular training and competency assessments to stay updated on safety procedures, regulations, and any changes in operating practices. You will be expected to maintain your own appropriate professional knowledge and keep informed of industry developments.
* Train Inspections: Conduct safety inspections of trains prior to driving and reporting any defects to maintenance staff. Secure the train on completion of your journey and promptly report any faults which have arisen during service.
* Record-keeping: Ensure accurate documentation of activities, including departure and arrival times, any incidents or delays, and other relevant information.
* Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with control centres, signal operators, and other relevant personnel to ensure smooth train operations.
* Adaptability: Adapt to changes in routes, weather conditions, or unexpected circumstances while maintaining operational efficiency.
* Preparation for Duty: Manage lifestyle to ensure adequate rest before shifts, with occasional impact on personal life. A zero-tolerance policy regarding recreational drugs and alcohol is enforced.
About you
The role of a Train Driver is safety critical and is subject to Rail Safety Standards Board (RSSB) regulations. You MUST meet the following criteria for this position, or your application will be automatically rejected:
* Currently live within a 45-minute car journey from the station you work from.
* Be at least 20 years of age at the time of application.
* Pass the TDLCR Train Driver medical assessment, including drugs and alcohol screening.
* Not have defective colour vision.
* Obtain a pass to an enhanced level on the Train Driver Psychometric Assessments, which will be taken as part of the recruitment process. If you pass the test, it is valid for 5 years. You have only three attempts to complete the psychometrics – if you fail on your third attempt you are unable to re-take them and cannot qualify for a train driver position.
* Commit to working early, late and weekend shifts – without relying on public transport (for example: 03:00–10:30, 15:30–12:30, 21:00–06:00).
* Ability to work calmly under pressure and remain focused and vigilant in a high-pressured environment.
* Maintain high standards of work at all times.
* Exceptional concentration skills within a low stimulus environment while carrying out repetitive or monotonous tasks.
* Ability to learn and retain large amounts of information and be subject to ongoing competency assessments.
* Self-disciplined and able to work within rules and regulations.
* Excellent time management skills, ensuring your train departs as scheduled.
* Resilient and adaptable with quick reaction skills.
* Ability to shift priorities to meet other requirements without creating more significant difficulties.
* Diligent with the moral courage to challenge unsafe or unprofessional practices.
* Good communication skills with the ability to build rapport with colleagues and customers.
Important information
* The recruitment process for this role is expected to take approximately six months due to the nature of the position and required training.
* After submitting your application, you may not receive an update for 8-12 weeks due to volume and screening. If you pass initial screening, you will be invited to a telephone interview, followed by in-person interview and psychometric testing. A conditional offer will be made subject to training placements and medical tests.
* Due to high volume of applications, anyone who has interviewed for a driver position within a 1-year timeframe could be automatically rejected.
* We do not accept AI applications. Suspected AI use will result in immediate rejection.
* Northern reserves the right to close recruitment early if high volumes of applications are received.
* The role is part of a 2-year apprenticeship programme with a 5-month classroom training phase, followed by on-the-job training and final assessment. The full program lasts approximately 12 months and may take up to two weeks for the final assessment.
* Training centres are in Leeds and Manchester; travel may be required. Hotels are provided for those living more than 1.5 hours away.
* The trainee train driver course is delivered as part of an apprenticeship.
* As a train driver, you may be required to work bank holidays and will be allocated a set amount of leave.
What’s in it for you
* Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and dependents on Northern services. 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
* Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
* Enhanced Family Benefits: 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
* Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
* Exclusive Discounts: Northern Perks for shopping and wellbeing.
* Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
* Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family and lifestyle.
* Training and Career Development: Tailored training and recognized qualifications; enhanced career pathways across the business.
* Recognition: Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards to celebrate excellence.
Why Northern
We’re the heartbeat of the North—connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. We operate a large network with a focus on improving rail travel and the customer experience while protecting the environment. We are a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and offer reasonable adjustments in the hiring process. All successful offers are subject to a DBS check and medical assessment.
A Place for Everyone
The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. We strive to create a diverse, inclusive team. If you need reasonable adjustments, our talent team can help. We’re a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and offer interviews if you meet minimum criteria. All successful offers are subject to DBS and medical checks. No matter your background, there’s a place for you here in the railway.
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