Training & Competence Lead

ROLE SUMMARY

The Training & Competence Lead (Technical Readiness) is responsible for ensuring newly
recruited technicians (including technician apprentices) are effectively developed and supported
to achieve Initial Operational Performance (IOP) in a safe, timely, and fully compliant manner.
The role supports the delivery of initial vehicle, equipment and process training, introduction to
training pathways and competence frameworks, enabling the successful assessment of
competence

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Technical Readiness & IOP Delivery

- Lead the initial development journey for new technicians from induction through to Initial
Operational Performance (IOP).

- Define, implement, and maintain structured pathways that clearly set out the technical, safety,
and behavioural requirements for readiness to operate.

- Ensure technicians are only released to operational duties when competence, confidence, and
readiness have been demonstrably achieved.

COMPETENCE MANAGEMENT

- Ensure all competence records, assessments, and sign-offs are accurate, auditable, and up to
date.
- Monitor progress against competence milestones and intervene early where development is at
risk.

ASSESSMENT & ASSURANCE

- Design and oversee robust assessment and verification processes, including:

- Workplace assessment
- Knowledge and skills validation
- Practical task observation

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OVERSIGHT

- Work closely with training providers (internal and external) to ensure learning aligns with
operational needs.
- Identify gaps between classroom learning and workplace application and address these through
structured practice and coaching.
- Support continuous improvement of training materials, delivery methods, and assessment
criteria.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

ESSENTIAL

- Significant experience working in a safety-critical maintenance environment.
- Experience supporting or delivering technician development, assessment, or mentoring.
- Strong understanding of competence management in a safety-critical industry.
- Ability to interpret and apply standards, rules, and procedures in an operational setting.
- Confident stakeholder engagement across all areas of the business.

DESIRABLE

- Experience working with or developing Initial Operational Performance (IOP) or similar
frameworks.
- Familiarity with rail assurance, audit, or compliance activities.
- Understanding of apprenticeship or early-career development models in rail.

QUALIFICATIONS

ESSENTIAL
- Relevant technical qualification (NVQ Level 3 / equivalent or higher).
- Lv3 Training delivery qualification

DESIRABLE
- Assessors qualification (e.g. A1 / CAVA or equivalent).
- Coaching or mentoring qualification.
- Safety or quality management qualification