Drivers
Every journey starts with a Driver. Every Driver plays a key role in shaping our customers’ experience. As a Tram Driver at Metrolink, you’ll be trusted to operate services safely, professionally and reliably across the UK’s largest light rail network. It’s a career that combines responsibility, focus and customer service, helping thousands of people get to work, school, events and home again every day. With comprehensive training and support, you’ll become part of a team that’s proud to deliver a service Greater Manchester relies on.
Meet Amy - Train Driver
What I love about my job is getting people from A to B and I also enjoy working on my own, which is a big part of the job. You also get to see many different aspects of the city from the scenery to the people. We help the people to get to their destination safely and I enjoy keeping the passenger updated with the latest travel information via the onboard PA system.
Meet Pete - Train Driver for 10 years
I’ve been a tram driver at Metrolink for the past 10 years, a role I take real pride in. As a rail enthusiast, it’s something I’ve always been passionate about, and I enjoy playing my part in keeping Greater Manchester moving. The variety of the job, from navigating the network to interacting with passengers, keeps it interesting, and I’m proud to contribute to a reliable and safe service for the city.
Meet Aaron - Minder Driver
I work as a Minder driver at KAM, I’ve been doing this for 4 years and I have been driving trams for 15. I love being a minder because it allows me to use my skills and experience to help others learn. Seeing people go from brand new trainees to qualified and confident drivers is a very rewarding experience.
What about training?
We’ll give you all the training and support you need to succeed. Our 10-week Driver Training Programme is designed to build your skills and confidence step by step, combining classroom learning, simulator training and practical driving experience. You’ll begin with three weeks of theory, depot-based learning and simulator sessions before moving into practical driving with the support of an experienced Minder Driver.
So, what driver roles do we offer?
Trainee
Every Driver starts their journey here. As a Trainee Driver, you’ll join our Academy and be supported by experienced Driver Trainers as you progress from your first day of training to becoming a qualified Tram Driver.
Driver
Once qualified, you’ll be responsible for safely and reliably transporting customers across the Metrolink network. You’ll start by learning one route before developing your skills and route knowledge across the entire network over a 12-month period.
Minder Driver
Our Minder Drivers play a vital role in developing and supporting our Drivers. Using their experience and expertise, they guide Trainee Drivers through their learning journey and help qualified Drivers build confidence and competence when learning new routes.
Testing & Commissioner
Testing & Commissioning Drivers help keep our network running at its best. They operate trams during testing and pre-service activities, ensuring vehicles and infrastructure are safe, reliable and ready for service before customers begin their journeys.
Qualified Drivers
After a further period of classroom learning to build on your knowledge, you’ll return to the network for more supervised driving experience. By the end of the Driver training programme, you’ll have developed the skills, knowledge and confidence to complete your final assessment and begin your career as an independent Metrolink Driver.
Apply Online
Ready to take the next step? You can view our latest vacancies here. Driver opportunities are typically advertised in January and September so sign up for job alerts to be among the first to hear when applications open. Your journey to the driver’s cab could be closer than you think.
Application Process
Think you have what it takes to keep Greater Manchester moving? We’re looking for talented people who want to make a difference and be part of a team that keeps our city -region connected. Here’s what you can expect on your journey to becoming a Metrolink Driver.
Stage 1: Online Application
Submit your application through our careers portal. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only shortlisted candidates will progress to the next stage. We review every application carefully and will keep you updated throughout the process.
Stage 2: Psychometric Assessment
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to complete a psychometric assessment. This helps us understand your aptitude and suitability for the role and gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your potential.
Stage 3: Assessment Day
Candidates who successfully pass the psychometric assessment will be invited to attend an assessment day. Our team will guide you through each activity, which may include:
- Group exercises
- Tram-related practical activities
- An interview
- A listening exercise
- A hazard perception test
Stage 4: Conditional Offer
Successful candidates will receive a conditional job offer, subject to completing and passing a medical assessment.
Stage 5: Training
Once all pre-employment checks have been completed, we’ll agree your start date and welcome you onto our comprehensive training programme, giving you the knowledge, skills and support to begin your journey as a Metrolink Driver.
Application Timescales – With strong interest in our Driver opportunities, the recruitment process typically takes 8 to 12 weeks from application to offer. We’ll keep you informed throughout, providing regular updates and guidance at every stage of your journey.