Being a Train Conductor/Guard

[thetom22]

I've always considered becoming a Train Conductor/Guard if I decided to start a career on the Railway, preferably for either First Transpennine Express or Virgin Trains (I also thought of Northern Rail, but they're looking into guardless trains in the future I've heard).

I know that a Train Conductor/Guard has to fulfil duties such as checking tickets (obviously), informing passengers on any delays or updates with services, assisting the Driver with any checks (if a Trains brakes fail etc.), health and safely procedures in case of an accident and overall looking after the train.

I know that the hours are long and can be unsocial-able, but I've heard it's a good stepping stone into becoming a Driver or any other position in the future if you were wanting to do that.

Would anyone consider this as a good career plan or even fill me in on anything that I've missed about being a Train Conductor/Guard.

Thanks.

 

[red2005]

It’s a very good, well trodden path to the driving grade that’s for sure mate. No guarantee of natural progression obviously as you’d still need to apply and put the work in as much as anyone else whether they be internal or external.

Having took this path myself it’s the one I’d always recommend people take as take away all the other things the grade gives you, you actually get to work alongside the driver and get the opportunity to see first hand if it is actually what you want to do!....... so many people have dreams and when they get there find out it’s not what they thought.

The only advice I give to people going for a guards job specifically to eventually get a drivers job is make sure you’re a “ people person” as even in the conductor Grade it can still take years to go driving!....... years with a public you have no time for can be a terrible period of time...... trust me I’ve been there lol!

The hours are DEFINITELY unsociable there’s no can be about it lol.

The other duties you mentioned are spot on as well as assisting people with disabilities, report writing etc so it sounds like you’ve got a good idea of what to expect mate!..... what I would say is these grades don’t just affect you at work.... there’s a lot of sacrifices involved outside the workplace too but in my opinion very worth it!

I wish you the best of luck.