Becoming a train driver is a long process that involves a year of application and testing, a six-month apprentice-like education, and 250 hours of training. Trainees must pass periodic tests and interviews and learn how to operate the train safely. The process is designed to weed out applicants, and candidates should educate themselves on the requirements before entering the interview component. Upon successful completion, trainees are granted newly qualified driver status for a minimum of two years.
An apprentice train driver usually starts the position with almost a year of application and testing period before being called for an actual interview. After the interview is successfully completed and a job offer is made, the train trainee begins a six-month period of apprentice-like education. Driving with a qualified operator instructor, the trainee learns a route, is instructed and tested in the mechanics of the train, and learns how to operate the train safely. With periodic tests and interviews, there are many opportunities for the trainee to fail on the path to becoming a certified machinist.
The opportunity to become a train driver does not come around very often and the process is very long and drawn out. Each step of the process is designed to weed out a large portion of applicants. Although the requirements for becoming an apprentice machinist do not specify a certain educational background, the interview process is used to weed out those with a lesser knowledge base. It is recommended that all candidates read the rail system and educate themselves on the requirements of an apprentice train driver before entering the interview component of the hiring process.
Once admitted to the actual practical component of the hiring process, the train driver trainee is assigned a certified operator/trainer. The intern normally works hand in hand with the trainer for half a year. Proper sign identification, speed limits and horn are learned. The trainee driver also studies the actual braking, stopping and starting of the train.
Under the trainer’s watchful eye, the trainee can take control of the train and complete the daily run as scheduled. The trainee is required to operate the train for no less than 250 hours, with at least 50 of those hours being completed in the dark. This training component is known as traction training and focuses on the actual driving characteristics and mechanics of the train.
A portion of this training section involves the trainee working to correct problems with the train that could delay its operation. By completing minor repairs and bringing the train back to operational status, the trainee will be able to eliminate the need for a mechanic to have to step out onto the train. Not only does this keep the train on schedule, it saves money for the train owner. Upon successful completion of the train driver trainee component, the trainee is granted newly qualified driver status for a minimum period of two years.
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