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Train Crew Employee

Train crew employees manage customer service on suburban and long-distance passenger trains.

All train crew employees work shifts, which may include weekends and public holidays.

Train crew on long-distance journeys may be required to stay away overnight.

TASKS

Train crew employees may perform the following tasks:

inspect trains, carry out any adjustments and report major problems
ensure the safety of the train and security of freight
ensure adherence to train timetables
ensure that passengers get on and off the train safely, and take action if there is an accident or if a passenger becomes ill
provide onboard customer service to passengers

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

safety-conscious
good communication skills
able to solve mechanical and technical problems
good interpersonal and customer service skills
good problem-solving and decision-making skills
good memory for learning safety procedures and regulations

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Train Guard - patrols carriages to ensure the safety of the train and its passengers. They may also check tickets and help passengers who require assistance to board and disembark trains safely. They are sometimes responsible for opening and closing the train doors for passengers. Train guards also communicate with the train driver about signal information from the network control centre.

Passenger Service Attendant (Trains) - provides customer service to guests on long-distance passenger trains. They assist passengers with their enquiries and prepare and serve meals and beverages.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a train crew employee without formal qualifications, but employers usually require Year 10. Once you are employed you will receive formal training, both on and off the job. On completion of this training you may receive a nationally recognised qualification.

Additional Information

Applicants go through a range of recruitment processes, including personality, aptitude and ability tests; an interview; and a medical assessment. Age limits may apply.

You may need a current C-class drivers licence, a National Police Certificate and a Transport Driving History Report to be eligible for some train crew roles.

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Transport and Logistics Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Train crew employees are employed by passenger and freight rail operators. Rail services are provided throughout NSW and the ACT by passenger operators such as Sydney Trains network and by national freight operators such as Asciano.

Train guards and passenger service attendants are employed in some states and territories only. Check with your local rail authority for opportunities in these roles.

With experience and further training, promotion to supervisory or other positions is possible.