Understand How To Become A Train Driver Trainee

By Leslie Ball


Train driving requires a lot of skills, and the drivers go through a lengthy training before being trusted with the locomotive. It is a very rewarding career and when the position arises, the completion is intense. As such, if your dream is to be a locomotive operator/ engineer, you need to prepare adequately and this begins by understanding how to become a train driver trainee.

The major railroad HR departments usually report an average of 300 applications for every single train driver trainee vacancy that arises. This means that the competition involved is very intense and you need to conduct thorough research and be well prepared before facing the interview panel for this position while understanding that up to 90% of applicants are going to fail.

Out off over three hundred applicants, over 90% fails for obvious reasons. They fail to prepare adequately and they don't understand what exactly the position requires. However, if you are well aware of the minimum requirements, you should be able to pass the selection process and face the interview panel and go through the numerous tests and screening process.

The starting point is finding the train driver trainee vacancy. Normally, these vacancies are announced periodically by the railroad operators. By visiting the career section of their websites, you may come across these vacancies. Some career websites may also advertise these positions as third party advertisers and they give the application process and the important links.

When there is no vacancy, it is best to be gathering experience working in any other relevant position like a conductor, a brakeman, rail yard worker, or even a bus driver. In addition to this, you require a valid license and continue to take and pass the relevant examinations.

You may be required to take the psychometric test if you are successful in the selection process. This normally requires a lot of preparation and practicing. It is also necessary to pass this test in the first time round as you may only have one chance or at most two chances to sit the test of forget your dream of becoming a locomotive operator for ever. The internet is rich in materials and resources that can help you adequately prepare for this test.

After the test, the interview in which you may face a panel awaits you. This too requires a lot of preparation. You need to understand what the interviewer is looking for and demonstrate that you have what it takes to get this job. The most important traits that the panel is after include discipline, ability to react to a situation quickly and appropriately, ability to handle emergency calmly, safety consciousness, high concentration, and good communication skills.

With a lot of practice and being aware of what is expected, the interview and assessment process may not be difficult. The other assessments include a background check and a criminal record may disqualify you. The drug screening tests should also be expected just as well as the physical fitness test.

Generally, the train driver trainee is a very competitive position that attracts many applicants. With adequate preparation and enough experience, this is a position that you have high chances of getting. It is the final step towards the fulfilling career of a locomotive operator.




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