Platform Dispatcher - career progression?

[alexl92]

As I've mentioned before on this forum I'm considering trying to begin a career in the railways. Northern are currently advertising for Platform Dispatchers in Leeds, which interests me.

What I'd like to know is what options may be available to me in the future if I should wish to change role or seek a higher level of responsibility.

What kind of roles are options for someone who starts out as a dispatcher? I'm not particularly interested in becoming a driver at this stage (although that's not to say that I'll never wish to be), but may be interested in other station-based roles.

This is all hypothetical at this stage; I'm simply examining my options.

Thanks in advance.

 

[grumblingalong]

Dispatcher-Station Supervisor-Area Supervisor (each TOC has a different name for them) and further up.

Alternatively there's the hop over to traincrew Dispatcher-Guard-Driver as you have mentioned.

 

[Cherry_Picker]

We've probably got a dozen or more guards and drivers at my TOC who were dispatchers five or ten years ago. It's a well trod path of progression.

 

[carbers255]

Be warned that if you apply then the numerical assessment needs concentration and get your fractions knowledge ready!!! The online assessment can take you by surprise because it's quite tricky and needs your full attn. Good luck!!!