TransPennine Express has launched a major recruitment drive, seeking up to 53 new conductors to bolster its workforce across the North of England over the next year. The operator says the intake will help maintain smooth, reliable services as staff retire, move into new roles, or pursue opportunities elsewhere within the industry.

Rather than filling fixed vacancies immediately, TPE is building a talent pool, allowing successful applicants to be appointed quickly when positions arise. Up to five posts are expected at each of the company’s depots in Cleethorpes, Sheffield, Preston, Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Airport, Liverpool, Newcastle, Hull and Scarborough, with York set to receive as many as eight new recruits. The approach, widely used across the rail sector, is designed to ensure operators never face a shortfall in frontline staff.

Candidates will be required to complete a rigorous selection process, including tests centred on concentration and customer service, before embarking on roughly three months of training to become fully qualified conductors. TPE is particularly keen to attract applicants who are new to the rail industry and may not have previously considered a role on the railway.

Andrew McClements, Customer Experience & Transformation Director at TransPennine Express, said:

“We are looking for customer-focused people with excellent communication skills who thrive in a fast-paced environment and may not have considered a career in rail before. Successful applicants will demonstrate a high level of responsibility, a strong work ethic and a commitment to maintaining safety standards. We want our workforce to reflect the communities we serve and we’re proud to include people from all walks of life in our team. So, if you are thinking of changing careers or are just starting working life, this could be the role for you.”

The starting salary for trainee conductors is £27,877, rising to £36,411 once qualified, with additional benefits such as free and discounted rail travel. The company has also begun recruiting for up to five conductor roles in Glasgow, underscoring the scale of its current hiring push.

Image: TransPennine Express