Tuesday 14 April 2015

The Basics On How To Become A Train Driver Trainee

By Leslie Ball


In order to become a train driver, you have to go through a very lengthy process, and many people end up being eliminated along the way. It starts with a formal training leading to an associated degree or certificate in locomotive operation. After this, you have to understand how to become a train driver trainee as this is the entry level position.

Normally, the position is usually very competitive; with a single vacant position attracting well over 300 applicants. This is understandable considering the huge financial reward and good working conditions associated with the train driving job. Among other benefits, the locomotive operators enjoy job security, good pay, and pension in addition to opportunities to join work unions.

Although many people send in an application, over 90% of them do not qualify. This is for no other reason than not understanding what is required. Most applicants fail to carry out research and understand what the recruiters are looking for. As such, many of them fail to go beyond the first step which the selection process. It is important to do some research to increase your odds proceeding beyond the selection process.

The starting point is finding the train driver trainee vacancy. Normally, these vacancies are announced periodically by the railroad operators. By visiting the career section of their websites, you may come across these vacancies. Some career websites may also advertise these positions as third party advertisers and they give the application process and the important links.

When the vacancy arises, you need to apply for the position. This involves submitting the detailed information such as the application letter, the curriculum vitae, and other academic and non-academic documents. The CV needs to be customized for the specific job and demonstrate how you qualify for the advertised position.

If you pass the selection process, the next part is to take the Psychometric Test. It is very important to prepare well in order to pass this test. In fact, failing the test twice can stop your dream of ever becoming a train driver in some countries. The internet is rich in information that can help you pass this test, all you need is to prepare well by visiting relevant sites and consulting the experts.

After the test, the interview in which you may face a panel awaits you. This too requires a lot of preparation. You need to understand what the interviewer is looking for and demonstrate that you have what it takes to get this job. The most important traits that the panel is after include discipline, ability to react to a situation quickly and appropriately, ability to handle emergency calmly, safety consciousness, high concentration, and good communication skills.

The last stage involves a background check where an applicant can be dismissed in the case of a criminal record. In addition to this, the drug screening test is also done. Lastly, physical fitness check is also done to weed out those who may not cope with the job condition.

Generally, the train driver trainee is a very competitive position that attracts many applicants. With adequate preparation and enough experience, this is a position that you have high chances of getting. It is the final step towards the fulfilling career of a locomotive operator.




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