Train manager

Train managers are responsible for the security of the trains, for checking tickets and for looking after passengers. They also answer passengers’ queries and provide assistance when needed. In this post, we answer the question 'what does a train manager do?' and provide a train manager job description.

Also known as:

• On board manager
• Train conductor

What does a train manager do?

Let's start by tackling the question 'what does a train manager do?' Train managers help passengers and carry out duties to ensure the smooth running of the train. At the railway station, they check with the train driver and station staff that it is safe for the train to leave. During the journey, they make announcements on the train’s public address system about destinations and provide any further relevant information. To do this, they must have a good knowledge of routes, timetables and regulations.

As they walk through the train, the train manager makes sure everyone has or buys a valid ticket. They answer any passengers’ questions about connections and other similar queries. A train manager also has to cope tactfully with any awkward passengers. If a train breaks down, the train manager works with the driver to ensure the safety of the passengers and the railway network.

Train manager job description – skills and qualities

Let's move onto the train manager job description by looking at some key skills and qualities needed to do this job. To do this job well, you’ll need:

• To be polite and tactful when dealing with passengers.
• Good communication skills.
• The ability to deal with difficult or awkward passengers.
• Basic maths skills, as you could be dealing with money, as well as card payments.
• Some knowledge of local and national train routes.
• To be reasonably fit.
• Normal colour vision, good eyesight and hearing.

Applicants must pass a medical examination, which includes tests for alcohol and drug abuse.

The following future skills shortages have been identified:

• Customer service skills
• People management skills
• Leadership/management skills
• Foreign languages

Now we've covered the train manager job description, we hope you feel we've answered the question 'what does a train manager do?'

Pay and opportunities

The pay rates given are approximate. Train managers earn in the range of £23,000, rising to £36,000 with experience.

Train managers usually work a 43–45-hour week, which will include shift work, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Overtime may be available.

Demand for train managers is steady. However, competition for rail jobs can be strong.

Employment is with Train Operating Companies (TOCs) and also with London Underground and Eurostar. Train managers work on board trains, travelling to local/national destinations throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service. Vacancies are also advertised on TOCs’ websites. A list of TOCs can be found on the National Rail website.

Entry routes and training

There are no set entry routes into this career. However, it’s useful to have a few GCSEs, or equivalent. Useful subjects include:

• English
• Maths
• Leisure and tourism.

TOCs recruit people for training. This could last between two and three months and include a short induction. Some of the things you’ll learn about include ticket types safety railway rules and regulations how to deal with difficult situations and emergencies. This is followed by on-the-job training. Some TOCs operate a level 2 (intermediate) train conductor apprenticeship.

Qualifications

No qualifications are usually needed, but good English and maths skills are necessary. GCSEs in English and maths would be useful.

Knowledge of railway geography is important. You’ll do assessment tests as part of the recruitment process. Experience of working in customer facing roles is also important.

If you wish to enter this career through an intermediate apprenticeship, you will need to be 16 to and have GCSEs (including English and maths) – if you don’t have these you may be able to take them alongside the programme.

Adult opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation. The minimum age for a train manager is 18, as this is a safety-critical job and shiftwork is often required.

Previous work experience in customer service, retail sales, dealing with the public and handling cash can be helpful.

Now you are familiar with the train manager job description and have an answer to the question 'what does a train manager do?', check out these related careers.

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• Bus/rail customer service assistant
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