Rolling Stock Technician Review

The qualified role is for a Band 3 Rolling Stock Technician, this involves both mechanically and electrically assessing rolling stock to ensure that it is a serviceable order and if safe for operation. a band 3 will check the quality of work carried out by band 2 mechanical technicians, as well as carry out work on safety critical components. As well as liaising with production and movements managers

As part of this course I have learnt about the importance of working safely on the railway, as well as the methods and means to fix items of rolling stock. there is a large variety of rolling stock so the skills must be learnt across multiple types of unit and their respective electrical fittings and fixtures.

the apprenticeship programme is in depth and covers a great deal of information, this information and skills can be carried into the workplace and also into everyday life, this in turn makes the course enjoyable and offers new challenges and experiences that will result in job satisfaction for many years.

In partnership with both the Siemens National Training Academy for Rail and South Western Railway, we are supported by both entities. if we require support and help there are numerous persons that we can contact to express both our concerns and issues. these are then looked into in a fast and effective manner.

the programme is well organised consisting of a year at CEMAST college fareham full time, then leading to one year of one day a week for the level 3 qualification, this is then followed by one year of one day a week for a HNC. During holidays time is spent on depot learning additional skills to complete the job at hand.

as previously mentioned we receive support from the college, Siemens NTAR and South Western Railway. this includes all areas whether these are personal issues that have arisen outside of work or within the work environment itself. all of our training providers also re-enforce both the safeguarding directive and the prevent duty

our employer offers a great deal of support with both our training at college and within the work environment. depot clerks can be consulted in regards to available holiday. we receive a weekly visit from our manager who will check up on us ensuring that we have no issues. human resources can also be contacted with issues regarding pay

the role is very well paid and includes many other benefits such as travel concessions. the role is beneficial and company rewards are often given from periods of productivity or good work. any costs that are incurred whilst travelling to and from work both at college and depot as well as courses.

the company offers development opportunities outside of working hours, these include additional vocational qualifications such as language courses. the company are always seeking to assist their staff to develop and improve by advertising new available roles and courses. the company is also heavily involved in local charities and seeks to raise awareness by fund raising and community events.

Yes

both the pay and benefits are good the company seeks to encourage development and improvement to employees and are supportive throughout the apprenticeship programme. the apprenticeship offers the skills for a career for life as well as additional life skills. working for such a great company with a great supporting network results in a good work life balance.

focus on the tasks given, seek to learn as much information as possible and take every opportunity presented.