Locomotive Driver
てつどうきかんしゃうんてんし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Locomotive drivers operate railway vehicles such as locomotives and trains, maintaining safe and punctual operations through signal and speed management, as well as vehicle inspections.
Description
Locomotive drivers operate locomotives and trains according to prescribed operation plans, performing speed control between stations and signal confirmation. They also conduct vehicle inspections before departure, emergency responses in case of abnormalities, and communication with operation dispatchers, bearing responsibility for safety management and punctual operations. Additionally, they monitor weather conditions and trackside traffic situations, adjusting operation timetables and implementing safety measures.
Future Outlook
While railway automation and driverless technologies advance, personnel for safety monitoring and other roles will be needed for the foreseeable future. Expertise is required due to the need for maintaining local lines and introducing advanced operation management systems.
Personality Traits
Able to make quick situational judgments / Attentive / Calm and composed / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Nationwide transfers / Night shifts / Shift work / Work inside vehicles
Career Path
Apprentice Driver → Driver → Instructor Driver → Operation Manager → Railway Company Executive
Required Skills
Emergency Response Procedures / Knowledge of Signal Safety Devices / Reading Operation Charts and Timetables / Train Driving Operation / Vehicle Inspection (Basic)
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills / Electrical and Mechanical Knowledge (Railway Vehicles) / English Announcements / Meteorology Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Required ability to quickly adapt to weather changes or troubles during operation. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Necessary to not miss minute signals or speed restrictions for safe operation. |
| Problem Solving | To respond quickly in emergencies and ensure safety. |
| Stress Tolerance | High stress tolerance is needed for long hours of concentration and responses to abnormalities. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because the job as a driver requires adherence to standard procedures rather than creativity. |
Related Qualifications
- Railway Driver License
Aliases
- Engineer
- Train Driver
Related Jobs
- Railway Station Staff
- Railway Track Maintainer
- Railway Vehicle Mechanic
- Signal and Communications Engineer