About this career
Train preparers are responsible for checking and testing of equipment and systems on rail vehicles before vehicles are moved. They ensure that a train is in a fit condition to enter service, that the train equipment is correctly deployed and the formation of the train matches the train’s designated pathway. Depending on the individual work organisation of the operator they also perform technical inspections carried out prior to the train entering service.
Essential skills
comply with legal regulations
comply with railway safety standards
detect rail track malfunctions
ensure correct signalling during rail maintenance
ensure finished product meet requirements
ensure rail tracks remain clear
execute working instructions
maintain inventory of rail track parts
operate hydraulic jack lift
operate scientific measuring equipment
perform manual work autonomously
perform rail track inspections
write rail defect records
Required knowledge
characteristics of wheel rail interface
hydraulics
principles of mechanical engineering
rail infrastructure
standards of track geometry
Additional skills
ensure maintenance of railway machinery
maintain computerised records of railway traffic
process data from railway control rooms
train employees
work in a rail transport team
Also known as
track grinder
railway track technician
track signal repairer
brake coupler
railway switch operator
railway grinder
rail setter
signalman
track foreman
railway bender
switch tender
track oiler
track repairer
switch operator
railway track maintainer
railway brake technician
track service person
railroad signal maintainer
rail signal maintainer
rail signalling fitter
track worker
