Train company recruiting more than 50 conductors in Manchester with no experience needed - how to apply

Northern will open up more than 50 train conductor opportunities across Greater Manchester.

The rail operator will recruit as many as 53 new conductors for its bases in Greater Manchester over the next 12 months. It's also urging those at a 'career crossroads' to apply as no rail industry experience is required.

Those successful in the application process will undergo full training via an apprenticeship at Northern's academy in the city centre. The roles will be based at either Manchester Piccadilly of Manchester Victoria alongside a salary of £29,000 once fully qualified plus a sway of benefits including free train travel.

Read more: Northern Rail offer train tickets for just 50p from Manchester

Craig Harrop, regional director for Northern in the North West, said: “The days when apprenticeships were just for school or college leavers are long gone - but that perception remains and it can be a barrier to more experienced people putting in an application. Lots of jobs have transferable skills that the rail industry can benefit from, so anyone that fancies taking their career in a completely fresh direction should give it go.

“Some of the people working on-board our trains today started their career in very different arenas, from the prison service and cabin crew to social care and financial services. No-one should think the railway ‘isn’t for them’ – it’s an industry with much to offer.”

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Recruitment for the first of the 53 positions is already underway, according to Northern. However, people will be able to apply again on Thursday, September 21.

If you're interested in starting a career in the rail industry, you