A Rail Engineering Technician improves the railway infrastructure that people rely on for reliable train journeys
In the UK we have a large network of trains and railway tracks that run up, down and across the country. Millions of people rely on trains to take them to work every day, to visit friends and family, and to take them on holiday.
There are many components to the rail network. The main infrastructure includes railway stations, trains and tracks, overhead lines, and signalling and telecommunications systems. A rail engineering technician helps to repair and maintain several elements. You could be the technician who helps railway journeys to run without a hitch, making sure people reach their destination safely, comfortably, and on time.
Over time you will pick up a range of skills in testing, maintenance, installation, and safety, and could progress to a management position, such as a maintenance team leader or engineering workshop manager.
You might decide you want to focus on vehicle engineering or move into consultancy, working for an engineering firm that helps to design and project manage the delivery of new railways.
There’s no perfect career path or ideal way into your dream job.
But if you’re interested in education and training options that could be relevant to this role, you might want to consider:
Options available after GCSEs:
More options available after that:
Schools and colleges each have their own career guidance plan and can provide detailed information, advice, and guidance on options and next steps.
As well as maintaining existing railway tracks and trains, you could be involved in restoring vintage train vehicles. There are also several new railway lines being planned which involve more energy-efficient vehicles and complex engineering projects.
This role can also be known by some other job titles including:
Track Technician
Overhead Line Technician
Electrification Technician
Traction and Rolling Stock Technician
Signalling Technician
Telecoms Technician
Rail Systems Technician
