Find a Job

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How many Shunter Attendant jobs are available on Pertemps?

  There are 1 Shunter Attendant jobs available on Pertemps right now.

• What does a Shunter Attendant do?

  Shunters move shunting units with or without wagons or groups of wagons in order to build trains. They manage the driving of locomotives and are involved in switching wagons, making or splitting up trains in shunting yards or sidings.

  Tasks required include:

  • Provides crews for breakdown trains, allocates relief and replacement crews as necessary, keeps crews informed of any line repairs or restrictions, and checks train running times for punctuality.
  • Examines schedules and decides priority of movement of trains, monitors movement of trains and issues instructions to drivers, signal operatives and level crossing keepers.
  • Operates signals and opens and closes barriers at level crossings as required.
  • Examines shunting instructions, uncouples wagons and coaches, guides movement of carriages using manual points and wagon breaks, links-up carriages, ensures security of couplings and reconnects brake and heating systems.
  • Assists drivers in the operation of diesel, diesel-electric, electric and steam locomotives.
  • Checks loading of tubs and carriages, and informs driver of load distribution and any special features of route.

• What are the entry requirements for a Shunter Attendant?

  There are no formal academic entry requirements. Candidates may be required to have good hearing, eyesight, and normal colour vision and pass a medical examination for entry to some posts. Training is initially undertaken in training centres, followed by practical experience on-the-job. NVQs/ SVQs in Rail Services are available at Level 2 and 3.