|
| quote: | Originally posted by Dervish
So how long do you have to train for and whats the entry requirements? Also how much do you get paid? |
Entry requirements:
You must be over 21 (18 for London Underground, but there are very few if any who are actually this age).
You must be in generally fit condition.
You need perfect hearing.
You need perfect vision (although some companies are now considering those with corrective lenses, but laser surgery is not allowed!).
You must have perfect colour vision (ie not colour blind).
You must not have any history of illness which may result in making you incapable of safely controlling the train.
You will be given drug and alcohol tests when you apply and at random.
* Previously worked in the industry for a number of years in lower positions, you will generally not be considered otherwise. Usually a company will only appoint those who are currently employed by them in lower jobs.
The selection process is a hugely hard thing and only a very small percentage of those who apply are even considered. Assuming you pass that there are a number of tests that you must then take which are not very easy which assess your suitability to be a driver, of the few that are considered few pass these tests.
Assuming you have passed these tests you then go on to months of learning to be a driver.... There are tests during this process also which must be passed....
Assuming you qualify you must now gain 'route knowledge' which basically means you must know every little thing about the routes on which you will be driving. Placement of stations, signals, junctions etcs.
I would estimate that less than 1 in 100 who apply qualify.
On the London Underground the wage is around £31,000 a year. This is more or less in line with those working on the mainline.
Drivers aren't paid much, and it's a hard job to get. The railway industry is very lucky to have so many enthusiasts who are willing to become drivers, and the passengers are very lucky in that most drivers truely love their job otherwise they wouldn't have bothered putting so muchg effort into becoming a driver.
___________________
I guess I'm just a cynic at heart.
|