EMR launches recruitment drive for train driver roles in Nottingham and Derby
- Apprentice Train Drivers to join EMR’s growing depots at Nottingham and Derby
- EMR welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds to apply
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced a recruitment drive to attract new Apprentice Train Drivers to its team.
The train operating company is keen to encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply for the roles - which will be based at its depots in Nottingham and Derby.
EMR, which values diversity and is committed to ensuring equality across its organisation, is particularly encouraging women, younger people and ethnic minority groups to apply for the roles.
The apprenticeship scheme is open to people aged 21 and above and involves a 12-month programme that blends theory and practical work in the classroom with practical skills development - such as; cab rides and signal box visits.
Successful applicants will have access to world class facilities at EMR’s training academy where classroom learning is underpinned by state-of-the-art Virtual Reality (VR) that replicates real life railway situations.
EMR also has a cab simulator so apprentices can learn about train driving in a variety of different circumstances and conditions within a safe environment.
Paul Griffin, Head of Drivers for EMR, started working on the railway in 1995, he said: “The role of a Train Driver is unique and challenging, but it is rewarding.
“I have worked in many roles within the Driver function, from a Driver on Central Trains to a Driver Mentor and Depot Manager. I have been in my current role as Head of Drivers since August 2019.”
Kate Holden, HR Director for EMR said: “At EMR, we currently employ just over 600 drivers and to fulfil our fleet rollout, we need drivers to operate the trains across the network.
“One of our major challenges is encouraging a more diverse driving workforce. We’ve been working to increase the number of females applying for our driver roles, with open evenings aimed specifically at women, as well as tackling the unconscious bias through blind screening.
“We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and ages and we’d urge anybody interested in a career in any of these driver roles to check out our website.”
Closing date for applicants is Sunday 28th November 2021.
ENDS
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Notes to editors
Apprentice Train Drivers
The EMR Train Driver Apprenticeship Programme builds capability that drives performance. EMR Train Drivers keep the country moving both in the depot and on the mainline. This role offers the chance to gain valuable qualifications and practical on the job training whilst working for one of the UK’s Top Employers and earning a salary at the same time.
Due to railway standards, the minimum age requirement to apply for this role is 21.
Candidates do not require any previous qualifications, but in order to achieve the apprenticeship qualification they will need to hold GCSE grade C or above or a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in English, Maths and ICT, support in gaining these can be provided if necessary.
Apprentice Train Drivers will be initially based out of Derby for approximately 16 weeks whilst in classroom.
As well as a competitive salary, EMR also offers a wide range of benefits including an excellent Railway Pension Scheme, free travel on the East Midlands Railway network, subsidised travel across the rail network with other train operation companies and staff retail discounts through our employee 'Hapi' app.
Terms and Conditions apply, for full job details visit https://jobs.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/