Train conductor
Train conductors issue tickets to rail passengers and make sure that their journeys are safe and comfortable.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
On a typical day you may:
- check the carriages are clean before the start of a journey
- make sure equipment, doors and controls are working properly
- greet customers and create a welcoming atmosphere
- walk through carriages during the journey to check tickets and travel documents
- answer passengers' questions about routes, arrival times and connections
- make announcements over the public address system
- make sure passengers get on and off the train safely
- deal with unexpected delays or emergencies, for example a passenger falling ill
Working environment
You could work on a station platform or from a vehicle.
Your working environment may be crowded, cramped and outdoors some of the time.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
Train operating companies often promote existing station staff to conductor jobs, so you may be able to transfer from a platform assistant or onboard customer host role.
With experience, you may be able to move on to senior conductor or train manager, or transfer to a driver training programme.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- 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
- knowledge of public safety and security
- the ability to work on your own
- the ability to work well with others
- 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
- be screened for drugs and alcohol
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
You could do a college course like a Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service, which would teach you some of the general skills you need. This may help when you apply for jobs.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
More Information
You may be able to get into this career by completing a passenger transport onboard and station team member intermediate apprenticeship with a train operating company.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
More Information
You may be able to move into this job after first working as a member of the platform or ticketing staff at a train station.
There are no set entry qualifications if you want to apply directly to train operating companies, although employers will expect you to have a good standard of English and maths.
If selected for interview, companies will usually test you on your maths, communication, and customer service skills.
Career tips
Experience of working with the public in retail or customer service could give you an advantage. It will also help if you have good knowledge of UK geography and the rail network.
Further information
You can find out more about train operating companies through the Rail Delivery Group.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.