Afternoon, I`ve been lucky enough to secure a position in Control for a TOC which I was very surpised and shocked to get as I have no rail experience although do work in public transport. Does anyone know what kind of competition there is for Control roles? I`d love to know what the average application rate is. Also, does anyone work in Control for a TOC? Is it as interesting and demanding as I think it is?
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TOC Control Roles
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Suraggu
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It depends on what role and which TOC you work for. Any information like that will help.
I used to work in FGW control in fleet. It was enjoyable but extremely stressful especially during times of disruption.
I'm actually in a 'talent pool' for a 'customer information controller' role with northern that sounds like it may be similar to the role you have got.
First of all, from speaking to the recruiting manager it is unusual for first time rail people to get into control. It is generally seen in northern at least as a mid-range position rather than entry level.
Also I visited control for a day to shadow the job just for my own information and I found the job very interesting & demanding when they were busy (as was the case in the afternoon) but in the morning there was little for them to do because it was all running smoothly but they needed to stay alert all the time!
First of all, from speaking to the recruiting manager it is unusual for first time rail people to get into control. It is generally seen in northern at least as a mid-range position rather than entry level.
Also I visited control for a day to shadow the job just for my own information and I found the job very interesting & demanding when they were busy (as was the case in the afternoon) but in the morning there was little for them to do because it was all running smoothly but they needed to stay alert all the time!
LBSCR Times
Member
TOC's often take Customer Information Controllers from outside the industry, depending on their background. However, sometimes it works, sometimes not, as you do need a good appreciation of the workings of the railway to make your job easier. It is one of the less stressful jobs within the Control, generally the most stressful are the Train Service Managers. One error and you delay hundreds, if not more, passengers.
A CIC is also expected to listen to what is going on around them, as often the TSM won't be able to tell them straight away what they are doing, or why.
As a sideline, many years ago when I was a CIC, we used to do live broadcasts on Radio Kent. It wasn't unusual for the presenter to try and trip you up!
A CIC can often be a stepping stone for progress within Control.
Once staff go into Control's they only leave upon retirement........
A CIC is also expected to listen to what is going on around them, as often the TSM won't be able to tell them straight away what they are doing, or why.
As a sideline, many years ago when I was a CIC, we used to do live broadcasts on Radio Kent. It wasn't unusual for the presenter to try and trip you up!
A CIC can often be a stepping stone for progress within Control.
Once staff go into Control's they only leave upon retirement........
306024
Established Member
'Controller's Ear' is essential, I escaped from Control but it has stood me in good stead since. Information during disruption is one of the hottest topics around, so while it is less stressful than a TSM it is a vital role. Good luck.
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