Transport

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

College

You could take a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you'll need in this job, for example the Level 2 Certificate in Rail Engineering.

Some colleges organise work placements with rail engineering companies as part of the course, so speak with them to get more details.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

Apprenticeship

You could do a:

• Rail Engineering Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
• Rail Infrastructure Operator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Rail Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements
• Network Rail apprenticeships
• guide to apprenticeships

Direct application

You can apply directly to become a railway signaller with Network Rail, who operate the rail system. You'll need a good general standard of education, including English and maths GCSEs.

You do not need any specific experience to become a railway signaller. However, it might be useful to have worked in a role:

• that is safety critical
• where you need to concentrate
• that involves communicating with others

Assessment and interview

You'll go through initial checks before being invited to an assessment day and interview.

Non-technical skills are important in railway signalling jobs. During the assessment day, you'll be tested on safety awareness, staying calm under pressure and working with large amounts of information.

You can find out more about the Network Rail recruitment process to become a signaller.

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

• be screened for drugs and alcohol
• pass a medical check

More information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers for professional development opportunities.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a railway signaller from Network Rail.

View all vacancies in this region

With experience you could:become a signalling supervisor or control room manager; take further training to work as a signalling designer; apply for jobs in other parts of the rail system through Network Rail's internal promotion programme