Rail engineering technician apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a college coursean apprenticeshipworking towards this roleapplying directly
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Rail Engineering Operative Competence
- Level 3 Diploma in Rail Engineering Technician
You'll usually need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. You'll also need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a Level 3 course.
Apprenticeship
You can get into this job through a Level 3 apprenticeship as a rail engineering technician. You can do Apprenticeships with transport operators such as Network Rail, Thales or Transport for London.
You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for a Level 3 apprenticeship.
Work
You could start out in a rail track maintenance worker. With experience and further training, you could then apply for a technician role.
Direct Application
To apply directly for rail technician jobs you would normally need experience and qualifications as a mechanical fitter, electrician or craftsperson with a rail engineering company, or from elsewhere in engineering. For example, a background as a coach builder or construction plant technician may be helpful.
Rail engineering technician apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- the ability to work well with others
- concentration skills
- physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
- observation and recording skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to pass a medical check. You may have to take an aptitude test to assess your existing skills and knowledge.
Rail engineering technician apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day tasks you may:
- help to build new engines and carriages
- fit out carriages with lighting, upholstery, control panels and communication systems
- inspect bodywork, roofs and undercarriages for wear and tear or damage
- repair or replace parts
- carry out regular checks on brakes and couplings
- take apart, test and reassemble mechanical, electrical and pneumatic systems
- write reports and update maintenance records
Working environment
You could work on rail tracks or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and dirty.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression - Rail engineering technician apprenticeships
You'll take work-based qualifications in personal track safety, installation, testing and maintenance.
You may work for train operating companies, London Underground, light rail and metro companies, rail freight and leasing firms. Specialist rail engineering maintenance companies are also big employers.
With experience, you could become maintenance team leader or engineering workshop manager.