Tram driver

Tram drivers operate trams transporting passengers around some cities in the UK. The trams run on tracks and are an alternative to buses for people living and working in many large towns and cities.

Also known as:

• Metro driver

Work activities

Tram drivers operate trams taking passengers to and from destinations in some major cities. Trams run on fixed rails like trains but have much lower top speeds. This is because they usually run in areas of the city where only pedestrians are allowed, or alongside roads. To operate the tram, the driver uses a lever, known as the traction brake controller. This controls the speed of the tram and is used to move away from a tram stop, or to come to a halt.

At the start of a shift, the driver carries out a quick inspection of the tram. Any problems need to be noted in a report. Also, if there are any incidents during the shift, this will need to be put into the report. During the shift, the driver will need to stick to a timetable. On some trams, passenger announcements will be made by the driver. Some tram drivers also have to collect passengers’ fares as part of their job. Tram drivers usually have to wear a uniform.

Personal qualities and skills

To do this job well, you’ll need:

• To be reliable and punctual.
• Strong concentration skills to stay focused during your shift.
• Quick reaction skills to stop the tram in an emergency.
• To be polite, well-groomed, and of smart appearance.
• Good communication skills for dealing with customers and colleagues.
• To be comfortable working alone.
• To be confident enough to deal with any unruly passengers.

It is important that you are physically fit and healthy, with good colour vision, good eyesight and hearing. You will have to pass a medical examination, which includes tests for alcohol and drug abuse. Tram drivers may have to work shifts and weekends. A driving licence and some driving experience is required. Some knowledge of the transport industry would be useful.

The following future skills shortages have been identified:

• Foreign languages
• Job-related IT skills

Pay and opportunities

Salaries vary depending on the company. The pay rates given are approximate. Tram driver pay starts at about £19,000, rising to £30,000 with experience.

Tram drivers usually work 39-41 hours a week, including shift work, evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Full-time and part-time posts are normally available.

Employment is with tram/light rail operators in Birmingham, Blackpool, Croydon, London Docklands, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield and Tyne and Wear. The largest operators are National Express and Stagecoach. Opportunities for tram drivers occur with Tram Operating Companies at regional centres in cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, on the Government’s Find a Job and Find an Apprenticeship services as well as on Tram Operating Company websites.

Entry routes and training

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

• English
• Maths

A level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeship in the role of passenger transport driver is a good way into this role.

Normally, you’ll need to have held a full UK car driving licence for at least a year and be at least 18 years old (for some companies the lower age limit is 21). Some tram drivers start in different roles within the same organisation before moving into driving positions, e.g., tram conductor.

Most of your training will be on-the-job although some basic induction training is provided in advance of working on the trams. City & Guilds offers relevant qualifications in rail services (tram/light rail vehicle driving). You will complete qualifications such as these if you take an apprenticeship.

Some drivers become duty managers or service controllers following experience in this job. Some may move into training positions.

Qualifications

You may not need any academic qualifications to enter this career. However, it’s always useful to have some GCSEs, or equivalent, in subjects like English and maths. You will need GCSEs in English and maths to begin an apprenticeship, although you may be able to complete these on your programme if you don’t have them.

Adult opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation, you will need to be 18 years old (21 for some positions).

Applicants need to hold a full car driving licence and have a minimum of one year’s driving experience. Applications are often welcomed from adults with relevant work and driving experience. Trainees normally begin as conductors and later train to be drivers. Training is mostly provided on-the-job in personal track safety, customer care and practical techniques.

The skills most valuable to the light rail, tram and metro industry include:

• Customer service
• Communication
• Teamworking
• Foreign languages
• Job-related IT skills

Related careers

• Bus/coach driver
• Bus/rail customer service assistant
• Lorry driver
• Train driver
• Train manager