Linesmen Review

Keeping 10,000 miles of overhead power lines mechanically sound and in the correct position is quite a challenge, especially as inspection, maintenance and repair can only take place when the trains aren't running and the power’s switched off. No two days are the same, when the wires are brought down the trains stop and using your knowledge and skill you will help to get them fixed and back up in the air, safely and as quickly as possible. Working with high voltage systems you will be making sure that the railway has the power to run the trains. Overhead line repairs are carried out around the clock, every day and over bank holidays, and can be at locations far from your depot so careful planning is essential. Working at height is routine, and you'll use various types of specialist tools and equipment to measure, adjust, repair and modify cables and wires that keeps Britain’s railway running. In a technically demanding role we expect you to have a close attention to detail, be able to problem solve and work in a safety conscious way. A whole career in electrical engineering awaits, with support and training which could include sponsorship to university and professional qualification with the IET.

yes, I have gained many tickets during my time, including my AP ticket, which allows me to apply and remove earth, as well as remove items from the OLE, my lookout ticket which is vital during day to day use on track, my working a height ticket which allows me to get up and be able to see the OLE in all its glory, as well as working towards my NVQ during this time.

I enjoy my work, I feel a good team is vital to any working enjoyment, something I have been blessed with at all times. the culture within network rail is top notch.

Very, is a short answer. I have regular meetings with my line managers and constant communication is key, they always check to see how I am and are always looking to help me improve.

This could be better. often when we need course dates/accommodation it is hard to get in touch with the correct people. the Training courses themselves are very good, but the standard of teaching within babcock (training provider) was not overwhelming. Support in this area was poor.

zero. email is the only communication and even then it can take days to get a reply due to shift work ect. currently deep into year 2, moving towards year 3 and I am yet to meet my year 2 manager, as are a lot of work colleagues. this is the only part of the apprenticeship I feel like a number only.

a awful lot. I have regular meetings with my line managers and constant communication is key, they always check to see how I am and are always looking to help me improve. I generally feel I can improve and flourish under network rail.

this could be better, but recent talk of a wage rise have been discussed, I look forward to hearing more on this. first year salary needs looking at the most, this is due to in past years, the whole of 1st year was spent away, allowing you to not have to spend money on rent travel ect, but now its only 5 months away, and its hard to balance this on a low income such as first year.

nope.

Yes

I would recommend as network has many opportunities for people, as long as you have determination and will to work hard. you can be recognised in this work place, which I cannot say for my other work places.

do not worry about experience, because you are not further a head than anybody else when you first start. but also with the online tests, make sure you do revision and not jump straight in, better nice than twice