Training & Competence Lead

ROLE SUMMARYThe Training & Competence Lead (Technical Readiness) is responsible for ensuring newlyrecruited technicians (including technician apprentices) are effectively developed and supportedto 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 totraining pathways and competence frameworks, enabling the successful assessment ofcompetenceROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIESKEY RESPONSIBILITIES- Technical Readiness & IOP Delivery- Lead the initial development journey for new technicians from induction through to InitialOperational 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, andreadiness have been demonstrably achieved.COMPETENCE MANAGEMENT- Ensure all competence records, assessments, and sign-offs are accurate, auditable, and up todate.- Monitor progress against competence milestones and intervene early where development is atrisk.ASSESSMENT & ASSURANCE- Design and oversee robust assessment and verification processes, including:- Workplace assessment- Knowledge and skills validation- Practical task observationTRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OVERSIGHT- Work closely with training providers (internal and external) to ensure learning aligns withoperational needs.- Identify gaps between classroom learning and workplace application and address these throughstructured practice and coaching.- Support continuous improvement of training materials, delivery methods, and assessmentcriteria.SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCEESSENTIAL- 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 similarframeworks.- Familiarity with rail assurance, audit, or compliance activities.- Understanding of apprenticeship or early-career development models in rail.QUALIFICATIONSESSENTIAL- Relevant technical qualification (NVQ Level 3 / equivalent or higher).- Lv3 Training delivery qualificationDESIRABLE- Assessors qualification (e.g. A1 / CAVA or equivalent).- Coaching or mentoring qualification.- Safety or quality management qualification.TPBN1_UKTJ