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About the transport industry

There are three main areas of transport to choose from:

• taxi and private hire vehicles (PHV), if you want flexibility and the hours to fit in with your commitments
• rail, if you’re technical or prefer working with your hands
• bus and coach companies, if you are good at manual work or like working with a variety of customers
  

Jobs in the transport industry

There are a wide range of jobs available for both men and women in the transport industry and the career ladder can be long and progressive.

You could be a bus driver taking people to and from work, or a bus engineer repairing the engine or electrics.

On the rail network you could be a member of the crew who offer passengers light refreshments, or a rail engineer who helps keep the railways running.

If you love travel you could be part of the cabin crew for an air company, work as a luggage handler or a dispatch worker planning and monitoring flights at the airport.

Advantages of working in the transport industry

There are many advantages to working in transport including:

• excellent opportunities - there are a wide range of jobs available for both men and women
• flexibility – some jobs allow you to work the hours that will fit in with your commitments
• varied working conditions – office based, outdoors or on the move
• good prospects – as your own boss as a taxi driver or progressing within a team of engineers or transport crew

Real-life examples

John Batey, taxi driver
I like being my own boss and choosing my own hours. I enjoy the flexibility it gives me to fit around my other commitments. As a taxi driver I earn £15,000.

Craig Broome, bus and coach engineer
At the depot we have a team of engineers. It’s important to get on and work together. New employees are usually supported by a mentor. It’s a good laugh and there are people I can count on. I’m paid £21,000.

Find a job in this sector

Find out more about training and careers in the transport industry by visiting the websites below:

• Start a job and skills search Opens new window

• The Recruitment and Employment Confederation Opens new window

• GoSkills Opens new window

More useful information

For more information on working in this sector and gaining the skills you need, contact Jobcentre Plus.

They can also tell you what help and support is available to you to help you into work.

Talk to a Jobcentre Plus adviser by calling 0845 606 0234.

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window

• Help and advice when applying for a job