VIRGIN Trains says it has launched the largest driver recruitment programme on the East Coast mainline since the 1980s.
The York-based company said it was looking for 78 drivers to operate a new fleet of Azuma trains which was set to revolutionise travel on the route between London and Edinburgh via York.
It said it wanted to challenge people who might not have previously considered becoming a train driver to consider whether they had 'got what it takes to take on this exciting and rewarding career.'
People director Clare Burles said: “It doesn’t matter if you have never worked in rail or if you haven’t even considered a career as a train driver before, we are looking for people who are not afraid to do things a little differently and want to be part of something innovative and rewarding.
“As a train driver with us, you’ll not only get fantastic benefits and career development but also spectacular views of the iconic intercity east coast route from a very unique working environment – how many jobs can offer you that?!”
A spokesman said that when the Azuma launches in 2018, it will be one of the most advanced trains on the UK’s rail network and Virgin Trains needed the drivers to operate the 65-strong fleet.
"Recruitment needs to begin now to allow for a year-long development programme before becoming fully-qualified trainee train drivers," he said.
He said that over the course of the year, trainees would take part in a mix of classroom-based and ‘on the job’ learning at different locations on the route.
"Modules range from track safety, understanding operational route risks and emergency situations to getting to know the traction they will be driving," he said.
"New recruits also go through rigorous immersive practical learning including driving Virgin Trains’ state of the art simulator in order to familiarise themselves with the cab and build train handling experience."
An existing driver, Tara Johnson, said she started her career on the route just over nine years ago as a customer service assistant before becoming a train guard, and then went for an opportunity to apply to become a driver.
“I haven’t looked back," she said. "I love the freedom and benefits of the role and there is never a boring day on the job!
“It’s a lot of responsibility too – the safety of our customers and getting them to where they need to be on time is top priority but the training and support we receive is brilliant."
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