VIRGIN Trains is hiring 78 new drivers for its east coast route in the single largest driver recruitment programme since the 1980s.
Potential recruits have until October 14 to apply for the posts, which have been created to coincide with the launch of Virgin's new Azuma fleet between London and Edinburgh from 2018.
The starting rate for a fully trained and qualified new driver at Virgin Trains is believed to be around £50,000, although trade union Aslef - which represents train drivers - puts the figure at some £57,000 once overtime is included.
Read more: Scotrail under fire as third of routes see more than half of trains arrive late
The package also includes a final salary pension, 30 days holiday per year - including bank holidays - and free rail travel on Virgin Trains services. Drivers will also be entitled to discounted rail travel with other operators.
Recruitment is beginning now to allow for a year-long development programme which will see trainees undertake a mix of classroom-based and on-the-job learning at different locations on the east coast route. Modules range from track safety, understanding operational route risks and emergency situations to getting to know the traction they will be driving.
Recruits will also undergo practical driver training on Virgin Trains’ state-of-the-art simulator in order to familiarise themselves with the cab and build train handling experience.
The company is keen to attract applicants from outside the rail sector, and there is also a push to increase the diversity of the workforce which is dominated across the industry by older, white men.
Read more: Scotrail under fire as third of routes see more than half of trains arrive late
Clare Burles, of Virgin Trains East Coast (VTEC), 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."
Tara Johnson, a driver for VTEC, said: “I started my career on the east coast route just over nine years ago as a customer service assistant before becoming a train guard.
Read more: Scotrail under fire as third of routes see more than half of trains arrive late
"I was really interested in the operational side of the job; I enjoyed working shifts and being onboard a train. The opportunity to apply to become a driver came up and I thought it was the perfect mix of challenge and reward so I went for it.
“I haven’t looked back."
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