Tram driver

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

College

You could do a Level 2 Diploma in Rail Services - Tram and Light Rail Vehicle Driving.

You'll usually need to be working for a passenger transport company or be on a placement to do this course.

Entry requirements:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through a passenger transport driver intermediate apprenticeship, where you would follow the tram driver option.

This takes a minimum of 12 months to complete.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Work

You can start as a passenger assistant or conductor and move into driving work after taking company training.

DirectApplication

You could apply to tram operating companies for tram driver training. Some employers will prefer you to have a few GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), particularly in English and maths.

You'll usually need a driving licence to apply. Experience as a bus, coach or train driver would be useful but is not essential.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• customer service skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of public safety and security
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• sensitivity and understanding
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• observation and recording skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of English language
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• active listening skills
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses

What you'll do:

Tram drivers take passengers to and from destinations, following a set timetable.

As part of your day-to-day duties, you may:

• carry out equipment checks at the start of your shift
• drive the tram along set routes
• pick up and drop off passengers at tram stops
• keep in radio contact with the control room for up-to-date route information
• make passenger announcements on a public address system
• write up reports on any incidents that happen during your shift

Location : You could work from a vehicle.
Environment : Your working environment may be noisy.
Uniform : You may need to wear a uniform.

Salary:

Starter : £19,000
Experienced : £30,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

39 - 41 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays on shifts

Career Path:

With experience, you could move into a supervisory role, like depot manager or route manager.

With further training you could become a driving trainer, teaching new staff how to drive trams.