Train preparer
Also called signalman, rail setter, track oiler
Train preparers are responsible for checking and testing of equipment and systems on rail vehicles before vehicles are moved. They ensure that a train is in a fit condition to enter service, that the train equipment is correctly deployed and the formation of the train matches the train’s designated pathway. Depending on the individual work organisation of the operator they also perform technical inspections carried out prior to the train entering service.
What you'd do
Railway brake, signal and switch operators · ILO- Taking charge of and safeguarding freight train during run
- Controlling flow of railway traffic over section of line by operating signals and switches from control panel or signal box
- Switching and coupling rolling stock in railway yards and sidings in accordance with orders about loading, unloading and make-up of trains
- Making up trains for hauling by locomotive or cable and directing their movement along haulage ways in a mine or quarry
- Checking train systems and equipment such as air conditioning and heating systems, brakes and brake hoses prior to train run
- Mostly outdoors
- A mix of sitting and standing
- Lots of contact with people
- Good freedom to decide
- Usually 40 hours a week
- Deadlines most weeks
- Some repetitive tasks
Will there be jobs?
Limited prospectsFewer jobs than in most work will need filling by 2035.
Solid: measured. Dashed: forecast.
What does it pay?
About averagePay depends a lot on the country: from about €1,000 a month (Bulgaria) to €5,100 (Denmark), before tax.
Pick a country at the top of the page to see typical pay there, for people under 30, and compared with all jobs.
Among plant and machine operators, and assemblers in the EU, women earn 21% less per hour than men. Plant and machine operators, and assemblers · Eurostat
What do I need to study?
Upper secondary or vocationalUpper secondary or vocational training in mechanics and metal trades is the usual route.
Pick a country at the top of the page to see where to study and the official course finders.
Will AI change it?
Very littleAI could help with only small parts of the tasks.
Average task score 0.17 on a scale from 0 (AI can't do it) to 1 (AI could do it fully).
See the score for each of the 5 tasks
Based on what AI could technically do when assessed in 2025. It is not a forecast for a future year, and not a forecast of job losses. Scores for railway brake, signal and switch operators. Source: ILO (2025), adapted (credits).