Afternoon
I was thinking what might be the way in as a timetable planner and what the salary would be roughly at entry level? I don't think I've ever seen it discussed here. When I was a teenager I did two-week's work experience in the timetabling department at Stephenson House in Croydon and enjoyed my time there. I'm in my early 40s now so it's probably too late to make the change now, but I can't help wondering!
There are two sides to mainline planning - Network Rail (NR) and the train operating companies (TOCs) and freight operating companies (FOCs).
Obviously there are also other railways, such as London Underground, the various tram networks, the Glasgow Subway and T&W Metro, all of which will have their own equivalent roles, sometimes with a slightly different mix of responsibilities.
It's probably easier to get into NR, as they regularly advertise for entry-level planning positions - which would be based in Milton Keynes. TOCs do advertise trainee planner positions, but it's not that common. They would be based at one of the offices of the relevant TOC - obviously several TOCs have offices in and around London, but outside that it's a bit more sparse. I think it would be very rare for a FOC to advertise for such a position.
Whilst most planners tend to start off when they're younger - seeing as entry level positions are usually not massively well paid by office job standards - age shouldn't be a barrier to entry. You would certainly have a lot more experience to rely on than someone who's only just left school or university. I know of a number of planners who did join when they were later in their career, so it's absolutely possible.
In terms of pay, entry-level positions at NR/TOCs will tend to pay around £25k - however it has to be borne in mind that there are very good travel facilities for most TOCs, and even NR staff still get a ~50% (after tax) discount off season tickets, plus most of the pension arrangements are reasonably generous.
Generally, the TOCs do pay better, as well as offering better travel facilities (if that matters to you), which is why there's relatively high turnover at NR, certainly amongst the lower 'grades'.
Once you progress, you should start to earn more and certainly once you get to managing people you could expect to be earning in the £40-60k range, depending on your exact responsibilities.
It's not the most lucrative profession by any means, and there's probably no more than 1000 people who work in it across the entire industry, but if you enjoy it, then you'll never feel like you have to work another day in your life!
As for
@miklcct's questions - there aren't any particular qualifications that are vital to become a planner (obviously when applying, they may decide between similar candidates on the basis of qualifications, and they will probably require A levels or equivalent as a minimum). But if you have good attention to detail, a logical mind and can get on with others (bearing in mind you might need to ask for favours from time to time!), that will stand you in good stead.
