Freight Train Driver

DCRail; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

DCRail in London is seeking a dedicated Freight Train Driver for a full-time, on-site role. You will safely operate freight locomotives, adhere to signals and procedures, and complete journey logs while coordinating with signallers and ground staff.

The position requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and physical fitness for long shifts, including nights and weekends. A safety-first mindset is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to operate rail vehicles safely with knowledge of signals and procedures.
• Excellent attention to detail and situational awareness in dynamic environments.
• Strong communication with control centers, colleagues and ground staff.
• Good physical and mental fitness for long shifts and varying patterns.
• Willingness to undergo medical, drug and alcohol screening.
• Prior train driving certification or equivalent is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-departure inspections of locomotives and rolling stock.
• Monitor train performance and complete journey logs.
• Coordinate with signallers, control centers, and ground staff.
• Respond to incidents, delays, or changing operating conditions.

Skills

Rail vehicle operation

Railway signals & procedures

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Physical fitness

Reading timetables

Medical screening readiness

Job description

Company Description

DCRail (Devon & Cornwall Railways) is a UK freight rail company providing bespoke rail freight solutions across the country. The company focuses on meeting individual customer requirements while maintaining a flexible and approachable attitude. DCRail is committed to high standards of reliability and customer satisfaction, building long-term partnerships with its clients. Team members join a growing, safety-focused organization that values professionalism, operational excellence, and service quality.

Role Description

This is a full-time, on-site Freight Train Driver role based in London. The Freight Train Driver is responsible for safely operating freight locomotives and trains, following all railway operating procedures, signals, and speed restrictions. Daily tasks include conducting pre-departure inspections of locomotives and rolling stock, monitoring train performance, and completing journey logs and required documentation. The role involves coordinating with signallers, operations controllers, and ground staff to ensure timely and efficient movement of freight, as well as responding appropriately to incidents, delays, or changing operating conditions. The position requires adherence to safety regulations, participation in ongoing training, and maintaining high levels of concentration and professionalism during shifts, which may include nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to operate rail vehicles safely, with strong awareness of railway signals, rules, and operating procedures.
• Excellent attention to detail, situational awareness, and decision-making skills in dynamic operational environments.
• Strong communication skills for clear interaction with control centers, colleagues, and ground staff.
• Good physical and mental fitness, with the ability to maintain focus during long shifts and varying work patterns.
• Basic numeracy and literacy skills to interpret timetables, speed restrictions, and technical documentation.
• Experience in rail operations, logistics, or transport is beneficial; prior train driving certification or equivalent is an advantage.
• Commitment to safety, reliability, and customer service, with a proactive and responsible work ethic.
• Willingness to undergo medical, drug and alcohol screening, and any required rail industry training and assessments.