Talent Pool Advert Join the Grand Central Team as a Qualified Driver - Future Vacancies Organisation; Grand Central Location: Sunderland Vacancies: please note this is for a talent pool vacancy for when positions become available in the future About Us: We are an open-access train operator linking the North East and West Yorkshire with London, which means we don't get any sort of help from the government and our only loyalty is to our customers - it's in our interest to give you the best journey possible. We've been connecting London Kings Cross, Yorkshire and the North East since 2007. Calling at the smaller stations means we're always looking to be active in the local community, through our various social responsibility programs and helping local organisations. The Role: As a Train Driver it is your responsibility to ensure our customers reach their destination in a safe manner and on time. Our drivers work hard to maintain high levels of route and train knowledge to ensure that safety is kept at the forefront of our operations. Although most of the time you will be working on your own in the driver’s cab, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with others in the wider team, including your Conductor, Dispatch and Control colleagues, and of course our customers. You will work on a roster based on a 35 hour working week with varying shift lengths. A flexible approach towards shift working is required as sometimes you can start at 0300, sometimes you can finish at 0200, though Rosters are provided in advance so you can plan. You will also be required to lodge on occasion in London overnight. Full route training will be provided to successful applicants. Roles are based on a 35 hour working week over 7 days, averaged out over the roster cycle period. What will be involved: Maintain currency of route or traction knowledge and notify line manager immediately of any route or traction knowledge shortfalls Prepare, drive and dispose of traction units safely and as set out by the relevant instructions. Communicate effectively with and assist staff and customers in the interests of safety and customer service Undergo competence/proficiency assessments as required by company procedures and the Safety Management System (SMS). Comply with all relevant rules, procedures and policies. What You Bring: Train Driver – you must possess a full UK Train Driving licence and hold competency within the last 24 months Knowledge - Thorough knowledge of operational rules, regulations, instructions relating to train driving Skills – ability to remain calm under pressure, remaining alert and vigilant at all times, customer focused, punctual and reliable You must live within 60 minutes drive of the depot or be able to relocate for the role. Grand Central Benefits: Contributory Pension Scheme: Arriva Workplace Pension Plan (AWPP) provided by Standard Life Unlimited Free Travel for you and your immediate family on all Grand Central services. In addition, we currently offer concessionary travel on other Arriva Trains UK franchises. Employee Assistance Programme provided by Health Assured: free, confidential 24-hour telephone counselling and information services. Benefits available upon completion of probation period (3-6 months): Friends & Family Passes pro-rata allocation of return standard class journeys (terms & conditions apply) Company Medical Insurance provided by AXA PPP Healthcare (taxable benefit) Company Wellness Package (including dental/optical treatment) provided by WPA (taxable benefit). Child Care Vouchers Scheme Cycle to Work Scheme Arriva Village employee rewards and benefits scheme Ready to start your next journey? If you’re passionate about making a difference and supporting our Grand Central Team, we want to hear from you Let’s build the future together At Arriva we acknowledge the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents, and cultures. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of our talent strategy. The creation of a diverse, inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential and enhance our success