Railway train drivers are responsible for driving passenger and goods trains safely, punctually and efficiently. They work on set routes from and to stations or depots. They have to know their route and any challenges, such as complex signalling systems, sharp bends or inclines. They must also know which stations they will be stopping at.
Before starting on the first journey of their shift, train drivers check for any last-minute changes that might affect the route they are taking and carry out safety-related operational checks on the train. They also check on other issues that can affect their journey, such as the weather.
When they start their journey, and then every time they want to move off, the driver must wait for permission which is given either by a signal light or by a hand signal from a member of station staff on a platform. Signal lights along the track then tell drivers if they need to stop or slow down.
When the train is moving, drivers must:
- operate the Driver Safety Device (DSD) to show they are maintaining control of the train
- control the speed of the train to ensure a safe, comfortable and punctual journey
- carefully observe speed limits and restrictions
- operate the brakes and other instruments
- keep a careful look out for problems and, if needed, put in place emergency procedures.
The length of train journeys varies; some trains run almost the length of the country, whereas others operate in local areas, stopping frequently at stations on one short route. Increasingly, short routes have driver-only trains. In these cases drivers also have to interact with customers, make journey and safety announcements and operate the locks on doors.
If a problem arises while the train is on its route, the train driver has to try to identify, and if possible deal with, any faults. If the fault cannot be put right, or if there is a problem on the line, they report it using the telephone or radio system in the train cab, or one of the telephones located along the railway line. At the end of the journey they write a report of any delays, problems, hazards or difficulties they have encountered.
Hours and environment
Train drivers work a 35- to 40-hour week, organised into shifts with the daily shift length varying between 6 and 11 hours. Shifts can involve working early mornings and late nights. Freight drivers usually work more night shifts. Train drivers also work some weekends and bank holidays.
Train drivers are mostly based in the driver’s cab in the train. They are usually on their own in the cab except for occasions when a driver inspector, a driver standards manager or a trainee driver travels with them. They report to a ‘base’ station, where they can confirm their route for the day and also check on any travel issues.
A uniform is normally provided for drivers and they must carry identification that proves that they are permitted to drive a train.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salary for a fully trained driver is €45,000
- A fully qualified and experienced driver, working omay earn up to €57 ,000 after ten years service.
There may be other benefits, including free or reduced-price travel. There can sometimes be the opportunity to get paid overtime work.
Skills and personal qualities
Railway train drivers need:
- a responsible attitude coupled with a strong awareness of safety and security
- excellent concentration and observational skills
- quick reactions and an ability to deal calmly with difficult situations
- a good memory, to retain details of complex systems, rules and routes
- to be self-reliant and happy to work alone for long periods
- clear speech and good communication skills
- self-motivation and the ability to work without direct supervision
- good eyesight and hearing
- normal colour vision
- some understanding of mechanical or electrical engineering.
Interests
A railway train driver should be interested in railways.
Getting in
Candidates must meet European Train Driver Licensing requirements, with a minimum of nine years full-time education and must be over the age of 20.
Irish Rail recruit train drivers on an ongoing basis furter details available on Ianród Éireann.
There are greater opportunities to become a train driver in the UK or on mainland Europe due to a greater concentration of railway networks.
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