Rail engineering technician
Design, build and repair the safe, comfortable and energy-efficient trains that'll power the future of travel.
About the job
What it's like
Ever wondered what powers the seamless journeys of trains, connecting people and places across the country?
As a rail engineering technician, you're a key part behind the evolving railway network. You'll design, build and repair railway engines and carriages, so people can travel safely and comfortably on trains.
You'll install, check and repair the mechanical and electrical systems in train engines, passenger carriages and other railway vehicles.
Your tasks might include:
helping build new engines and carriages
fitting new carriages with upholstery, lighting, control panels and communication systems
inspecting bodywork, roofs and under-carriages for wear and tear or damage
repairing or replacing damaged parts, even crafting new parts
regularly checking systems like brakes and couplings
testing mechanical, electrical and pneumatic systems and maintaining records
For most tasks you'll use different hand and power tools, including welding equipment. You’ll follow technical plans drawn up by senior technicians or engineers.
You'll work closely with other craftspeople such as carpenters, painters, upholsterers and sheet metal workers.
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You could:
help build and repair sustainable systems on trains – this'll include lighting, heating and cooling
working on projects to integrate renewable energy into rail infrastructure
Hours
You'll usually work a shift pattern, which includes weekends and bank holidays.
Environment
The working environment can vary, depending on your setting:
you'll spend most of your time in a rail depot or engineering workshop
you might work directly on railway infrastructure – being on tracksides, in tunnels, on bridges or at stations
some admin tasks may involve working in an office
There's also a strict policy on drug and alcohol use. You could be tested for drugs or alcohol at any time.
Travel
You may need a driving licence and use of a vehicle to start shifts outside of normal public transport hours.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Like the sound of this career?
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Rail engineering technician'
Select qualification level(s)
Other careers that you might like
Aircraft maintenance engineer Shipbuilder
Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Engineering and manufacturing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- recalling
- time management
- attention to detail
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- evaluating
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Electronics
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Applications of Mathematics
University
A degree isn’t needed for this job, but you could improve your knowledge by studying subjects, such as:
Civil and Transportation Engineering
Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Engineering
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Railway Engineering
Construction and Rail Operations
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Automotive and Rail Engineering.
Discover Modern Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
You could find more apprenticeship opportunities through Network Rail.
The main employer of railway engineering technicians in Britain is Network Rail, who have tips and information on how they recruit.
If you have an HND or degree in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering, you may be eligible for an electrical engineering conversion course or graduate scheme.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a rail engineering technician. Search for engineering opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
You must be at least 17 years old in the year that you're applying.
You'll initially complete an online application and if this is successful, you'll then do aptitude tests.
If you pass the aptitude tests, you'll be asked to attend an assessment centre to do practical tests.
You'll need to pass a medical examination.
You must be physically fit, with good eyesight and hearing.
Normal colour vision is also important.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Rail engineering technician'
