A career as a signaller

[Peterperfect]

Hey!
Just wondering if anyone is starting IST on 2nd September in York?
Also any tips or advice for IST would be greatly appreciated!
Eager to get started now.

Good luck. Don't expect it being a holiday. It's full on learning and it doesn't stop when you go back to the hotel.

16 days since my interview now. Emailed asking if any updates and they replied saying not yet.

Not sure how it can take so long to let people know.

That's good news. Generally the last one to find out is the one that gets the offer. Fingers crossed

Another question….

The box I am applying for is Dumfries. Well the advert says Dumfries anyway.

Anyone have any knowledge of this box to help in my interview? I have googled and to be honest there isn’t much out there besides info on the building itself.

Thanks

Find out what boxes it works to, type of signalling AB, Scottish token less block or TCB. Any crossings to deal with. Try visit the box. Signaller don't bite their LOM's do

Question: Does anyone know what grade Hornby Junction is supposed to simulate?

It's not graded. It's the simulator and designed to replicate multiple scenarios in the real world and rules.
Learn Bell codes and phonetic alphabet to give you a start.

 

[Brett55]

Hello, I was interviewed a week ago and haven't heard anything yet. I was told I'd hear back either way within a week / week and a half so shouldn't be too much longer. Good Luck.

When I had mine last year. I waited 8/9 weeks for the outcome. But worth the wait.

16 days since my interview now. Emailed asking if any updates and they replied saying not yet.

Not sure how it can take so long to let people know.

Mine was 8/9 weeks

 

[High Dyke]

It's not graded. It's the simulator and designed to replicate multiple scenarios in the real world and rules.
Learn Bell codes and phonetic alphabet to give you a start.

That's when it works right. I managed to derail an On-Track Machine (OTM) on proceed aspect signals.

That's a good starting point. Try writing out some crib cards with the bell codes on.

 

[Peterperfect]

That's when it works right. I managed to derail an On-Track Machine (OTM) on proceed aspect signals.

That's a good starting point. Try writing out some crib cards with the bell codes on.

Is the the digital twin you did that or on the sim at school?
They say don't read in advance before the lesson on the rule. Easy said. It just adds pressure when you get taught it.

Now there's the digital sim to practice on in your own time it will bring more to the table. The sim groups split your actual time on the simulator in the class. Sometimes watching is good but better for some to do the actual physical lever pulling.

Learn how to pass trains on all the routes. Then learn to run more than one train at a time including through the junction. Get good at that. And I mean good not just managing to do it a couple of times. You need to learn all the possibilities of what's coming first, second, etc and how that interacts with the trains your running.

Then introduce dealing with line blocks, signal failures, single line working, crossing failures etc. If you can do running a normal service we'll it will help you when you have to deal with the issues.

 

[High Dyke]

Is the the digital twin you did that or on the sim at school?
They say don't read in advance before the lesson on the rule. Easy said. It just adds pressure when you get taught it.

Now there's the digital sim to practice on in your own time it will bring more to the table.

It was on the sim that was formerly at Doncaster Grainbank offices. Despite being trained on eNtry / eXit (NX) panels, and operating them for many years, the signalling inspector, at the time decided I still needed to demonstrate the ability to operate it. Mind you, it was back in 2005. I'm not sure where it moved to though.

I'll leave the digital stuff to you young 'uns. Give me a lever frame any time.

 

[Peterperfect]

It was on the sim that was formerly at Doncaster Grainbank offices. Despite being trained on eNtry / eXit (NX) panels, and operating them for many years, the signalling inspector, at the time decided I still needed to demonstrate the ability to operate it. Mind you, it was back in 2005. I'm not sure where it moved to though.

I'll leave the digital stuff to you young 'uns. Give me a lever frame any time.

NX panels I've never worked. Lever frame and VDU.

 

[RailwayRookie]

Now there's the digital sim to practice on in your own time it will bring more to the table.

Personally I wouldn't bother with the digital twin. It's clunky at best and goves terrible feedback even if you do everything rlright... it is good for being able to add a loop or siding and get an idea of how the signalling interactions change though.

I wouldn't focus on Single Line working scenarios much if at all in sim groups as it doesn't come up on the assessment and it's something you won't be implementing solo at short notice in the real world. Learn the theory but the practice isn't essential for passing.

You may get working in the wrong direction related to a failed train but most assessors will try and make that scenario only need a wrong direction move over the crossover rather than a run through an AB section.

 

[Swanseajack91]

Anyone on here got a start date of 28th October in Bristol? cant wait to get stuck in learning now, so much useful information on here.

 

[Manda2194]

Morning everyone,

I have an interview for Preston PSB. Could anyone on here tell more about it such as what panels it has and where it signals to.

Thanks!

 

[watty30000]

Hi all. So back in March-May I went through the process for a G4 vacancy at Arbroath in Scotland and received an email saying unfortunately all positions had been filled, but they would like to keep me on a reserve list in case an opportunity arises.
Fast forward to today and I get a call out the blue inviting me for a Motivational Fit Interview.
I’ve had a Quick Look on the forum but couldn’t see too much information (might be typing in the wrong thing as I’m in total shock right now!) has anyone else had this happen and if so what sort of things should I prepare for? I’m guessing it’s not going to be like the original Signaller interview I sat back in May? Should I be getting excited that after 4 failed attempts at getting my foot in the door I may finally be getting my chance to become a signaller?
Many thanks in advance folks

 

[transportphoto]

Hi all. So back in March-May I went through the process for a G4 vacancy at Arbroath in Scotland and received an email saying unfortunately all positions had been filled, but they would like to keep me on a reserve list in case an opportunity arises.
Fast forward to today and I get a call out the blue inviting me for a Motivational Fit Interview.
I’ve had a Quick Look on the forum but couldn’t see too much information (might be typing in the wrong thing as I’m in total shock right now!) has anyone else had this happen and if so what sort of things should I prepare for? I’m guessing it’s not going to be like the original Signaller interview I sat back in May? Should I be getting excited that after 4 failed attempts at getting my foot in the door I may finally be getting my chance to become a signaller?
Many thanks in advance folks

This question has come up a few times over the years, here is some previous commentary about it:

Hi There

I did a motivational fit interview recently. I found it to be very relaxed and more like a chat. It was basically asking if I was still interested in the position but in another box. They only asked me a couple of transferable skills questions and how I found my last interview. I was offered the job towards the end of the interview where I had a choice of where I wanted to work.

Good luck.

I had one of these a couple of months ago. I found it was quite laid back, mostly comprised of "tell me a time where..." questions, along with you acknowledging the training requirements (IST), where the role is etc. and is a good chance to ask any questions.

I am led to a believe it’s more a quick chat as opposed to anything formal just making sure your still interested and to discuss options.

I was placed on a reserve list back in April/May and got a call the Start of December for a motivational fit interview (was basically a casual chat) and offered a job a few days later.

Currently going through the onboarding process with start date in April.

Don't give up hope it does happen

 

[watty30000]

This question has come up a few times over the years, here is some previous commentary about it:

Thank you so much for your help. For some reason this thread wasn’t showing in the forum subjects for me so apologies for starting a new one!

 

[transportphoto]

Thank you so much for your help. For some reason this thread wasn’t showing in the forum subjects for me so apologies for starting a new one!

No worries - now you’re here, you may find using the search function filtered down to “this thread” as a helpful tool. The commentary here goes back a little way

 

[Lucy1501]

Morning everyone,

I have an interview for Preston PSB. Could anyone on here tell more about it such as what panels it has and where it signals to.

Thanks!

Preston has a level crossing desk staffed by a grade 1 crossing keeper covering Bare Lane, Hest Bank and Bolton-le-Sands crossings.

It also has 4 main signalling panels:

• A Panel: Blackburn to Hebden Bridge, the Colne Line, and the line to Smithy Bridge.
• B Panel: From just south of the station to Blackrod, Midge Hall on the Ormskirk Line, Balshaw Lane and Blackburn.
• C Panel: The station area including the line to Salwick.
• D Panel: North of the station to Carnforth South Junction including the Morecambe branch.

As well as fringing to a variety of boxes on the edges of control, it also retains responsibility over a number of crossing boxes, including at Bamber Bridge and Townley.

 

[joestankey18]

Has anyone used simsig? Is it any good ?

 

[Mists]

Anyone on here got a start date of 28th October in Bristol? cant wait to get stuck in learning now, so much useful information on here.

My medical was today although my appointment was so delayed that the nurse couldn't give me the final sign off. She's calling me back on Monday. I presume I will be on this start date too, although you never know I suppose.

 

[CivilSig]

Well done on getting to IST.

...

If not already then get yourself comfortable with using the phonetic alphabet , and saying out numbers individually including the time . This isn't just for school , you will be doing it everyday as a signaller . You are also constantly assessed on your comms , in many cases it is miscommunications that can cause or exacerbate operational incidents .

Thanks for the advice.
I have just finished week one of AB IST and I have nothing to say other than WOW
Love it, so interesting, trainer is cracking & we are only a group of four which is great when it comes to sim time.
But the workload, yeah WOW, you weren't kidding
I am shattered and it's only the end of week 1 ha.
Hopefully come out the other side

 

[Buiadh]

Has anyone used simsig? Is it any good ?

It's a fun game.

Is it useful prep for becoming a signaller? No.

Thanks for the advice.
I have just finished week one of AB IST and I have nothing to say other than WOW
Love it, so interesting, trainer is cracking & we are only a group of four which is great when it comes to sim time.
But the workload, yeah WOW, you weren't kidding
I am shattered and it's only the end of week 1 ha.
Hopefully come out the other side

Week 1 is tough as the whole concept is (probably) new to you, but as the weeks go on the pieces will join up and it becomes easier to add on new knowledge.

Although having that, the last couple of weeks are pretty savage!

Your trainer will get you all through though, and you're fortunate to be in a smaller group so you'll have more time on the simulator and more time with your instructor.

 

[trainguyfcc]

A few Questions if anyone can help.

1. Does the London based roles have any London allowances.

2. Are breaks paid on Network rail.

3. Does any one have a rough roster they can share.

4. Is the pay 4 weekly or monthly?.

5. Is Sundays part of the working week?

6. Do signallers get a priv rate card.

7. How long before training and full salary? 3 months?

Any info will be appreciated.

Many thanks.

 

[endofthetunnel]

A few Questions if anyone can help.

1. Does the London based roles have any London allowances.

2. Are breaks paid on Network rail.

3. Does any one have a rough roster they can share.

4. Is the pay 4 weekly or monthly?.

5. Is Sundays part of the working week?

6. Do signallers get a priv rate card.

7. How long before training and full salary? 3 months?

Any info will be appreciated.

Many thanks.

Have you read any of the thread?
All these are answered already, but -

There is a London weighting paid yes
Breaks are paid but if you’re in a box on your own you probably won’t officially get one
There’s rosters in the thread, everywhere is different
Signallers are paid 4 weekly
Sundays are compulsory overtime, paid as overtime but you have to work your rostered
No, signallers get a 75% off card
Full salary not paid until you’re passed out on all your panels in your location, which can be weeks, months or years depending on the difficulty in location.

 

[trainguyfcc]

Have you read any of the thread?
All these are answered already, but -

There is a London weighting paid yes
Breaks are paid but if you’re in a box on your own you probably won’t officially get one
There’s rosters in the thread, everywhere is different
Signallers are paid 4 weekly
Sundays are compulsory overtime, paid as overtime but you have to work your rostered
No, signallers get a 75% off card
Full salary not paid until you’re passed out on all your panels in your location, which can be weeks, months or years depending on the difficulty in location.

Many thanks.

 

[muz379]

A few Questions if anyone can help.


3. Does any one have a rough roster they can share.



5. Is Sundays part of the working week?



7. How long before training and full salary? 3 months?

Any info will be appreciated.

Many thanks.

I think most of your Q's have been answered pretty firmly by others just want to add a little bit of info .

3. Rosters are negotiated locally so rosters do vary , there will also be variations based on what hours the location covers

5. If your location has sundays they will typically be built into the residents roster but outside the 35hr week , and you are expected to cover them unless cover can be found . Relief get first refusal to any sundays you don't want then another resident could also pick them up . If you do work them , then its 150% of your normal hourly rate .

7. Fully salary is when you are passed out on your job . Be it a single box or multiple workstations . Depending on how you are recruited and the grade of your location you might get a grade 2 whilst at school then a grade 4 when learning your location . As a minimum you will probably be 10 or 12 weeks at school (plus 2 weeks before school ) depending on what initial signaller training you do . Then at least that again to learn your first location / panel or workstation . Remember learning your first location whatever it is will always be a bit more because you are also learning how to do the actual job . Also as tempting as it is for money , don't rush learning your first box/location because once you pass out and sign on duty anything that happens is on you then .

 

[trainguyfcc]

I think most of your Q's have been answered pretty firmly by others just want to add a little bit of info .

3. Rosters are negotiated locally so rosters do vary , there will also be variations based on what hours the location covers

5. If your location has sundays they will typically be built into the residents roster but outside the 35hr week , and you are expected to cover them unless cover can be found . Relief get first refusal to any sundays you don't want then another resident could also pick them up . If you do work them , then its 150% of your normal hourly rate .

7. Fully salary is when you are passed out on your job . Be it a single box or multiple workstations . Depending on how you are recruited and the grade of your location you might get a grade 2 whilst at school then a grade 4 when learning your location . As a minimum you will probably be 10 or 12 weeks at school (plus 2 weeks before school ) depending on what initial signaller training you do . Then at least that again to learn your first location / panel or workstation . Remember learning your first location whatever it is will always be a bit more because you are also learning how to do the actual job . Also as tempting as it is for money , don't rush learning your first box/location because once you pass out and sign on duty anything that happens is on you then .

Many thanks,

 

[Swanseajack91]

My medical was today although my appointment was so delayed that the nurse couldn't give me the final sign off. She's calling me back on Monday. I presume I will be on this start date too, although you never know I suppose.

How annoying, yeah you should be on the same date then I'm assuming that's the last course of the year. gave my notice today so no going back now!

 

[joestankey18]

It's a fun game.

Is it useful prep for becoming a signaller? No.


Week 1 is tough as the whole concept is (probably) new to you, but as the weeks go on the pieces will join up and it becomes easier to add on new knowledge.

Although having that, the last couple of weeks are pretty savage!

Your trainer will get you all through though, and you're fortunate to be in a smaller group so you'll have more time on the simulator and more time with your instructor.

I’ve started using it. Thanks!

 

[macmed94]

When you dont pass the test and you're told "You can re apply for a signaller role after 6 months." does this mean you can't apply for any
signaller role from now until then or does it just mean for this specific location? I only ask as I've seen conflicting statements on other posts

 

[CoachB]

When you dont pass the test and you're told "You can re apply for a signaller role after 6 months." does this mean you can't apply for any
signaller role from now until then or does it just mean for this specific location? I only ask as I've seen conflicting statements on other posts

I could be wrong but my assumption is that you can't apply for any signaller role for 6 months.
I believe the reasoning is that your test results are saved for 6 months meaning if you apply again within 6 months they automatically pull your test that's on file.

 

[Llanigraham]

I’ve started using it. Thanks!

It really will not help you if you intend applying for a signalling job.
It's a game and nothing more than that.

 

[Mists]

How annoying, yeah you should be on the same date then I'm assuming that's the last course of the year. gave my notice today so no going back now!

28/10 confirmed. See you there.

 

[Swanseajack91]

28/10 confirmed. See you there.

Happy days! see you there!