Potential earnings
£99,397.19
Train and tram drivers drive diesel, diesel-electric, electric and steam locomotives that transport passengers and goods on surface and underground railways, and transport passengers in trams.
Main tasks
- May check travel passes, collect fares and deal with passenger queries.
- May make passenger announcements and controls automatic doors.
- Maintains radio contact with control centre.
- Makes scheduled stops for the loading and unloading of freight and coupling/uncoupling of carriages and tubs.
- Stops as directed to allow passengers to embark/ disembark.
- Watches for track hazards, observes signals and temperature, pressure and other gauges.
- Starts train or tram when directed and operates controls to regulate speed.
- Checks safety equipment, regulates the heating of passenger compartments and records engine defects or unusual incidents on the journey.
- Checks controls, gauges, brakes and lights before start of journey and studies route, timetable and track information.
Source: Office for National Statistics.
Salary and earnings
Average earnings
£63,036.22
Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).
Skills & knowledge
The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
What course level do I need to study?
The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.
Educational requirements: Level 2 NVQ; GCSE at grades A*-C
Source: Office for National Statistics.
| Level of study | Percentage achieved |
|---|---|
| Level 0 | 5% |
| Level 1 | 8% |
| Level 2 | 27% |
| Level 3 | 25% |
| Level 4-5 (Higher Education) | 5% |
| Level 6 (Bachelors) | 27% |
| Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) | 2% |
Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.
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Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.
