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Is working in the transport industry for you?

You can have flexibility and work the hours that will fit in with your commitments. Drivers spend a lot of time with passengers so need to enjoy helping people.

Here are some positive comments from real people currently working within the transport industry:

Ryan Palmer, HGV Driver

"I've always loved driving - now I get to do it for a living."

Martine Lynch, Bus Services Manager

"I love working with people - it means no two days are the same."

Transport: the facts

People often have fixed ideas about different jobs. But it's always important to get the facts. Here are some common misconceptions answered by the real facts.

• "Train drivers need a special qualification for their job" - a specific academic qualification isn’t necessary but good literacy and numeracy skills are important along with being a good communicator
• "There are limited prospects in the transport sector" - not true, the career ladder can be long and progressive
• "In aviation women mostly work as cabin crew and men as baggage handlers" - diversity is very important in all sectors and there are a wide range of jobs available for both men and women

Advantages of working in the transport industry

There are many advantages to working in transport including:

• 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."

Careers advice and job profiles

You can find more information about specific job roles within the transport industry by using the careers advice and job profiles link below.

• Careers advice and job profiles Opens new window

Find a job in this sector

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

• GoSkills Opens new window

• The Recruitment and Employment Confederation Opens new window

To search for jobs available in this sector, use the 'Start a jobs and skills search' link below. Or talk to a Jobcentre Plus adviser by calling 0845 606 0234.

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

• Start a jobs and skills search Opens new window

• Help and advice when applying for a job

• Contact Jobcentre Plus