Tornado Steam Traction Ltd (TST), the operating subsidiary of the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust (A1SLT), is seeking a Locomotive Manager (LM) to lead the team which operates and maintains A1 Pacific Steam Locomotive 60163 Tornado on the UK main line and preserved railways.  This is a new post and a senior position, reporting directly to the Board of TST.

The Locomotive Manager will be responsible for all engineering and operational activities during the operating season, which typically runs from early February to December.  The LM will also play a leading role in regular locomotive examinations, including the C Exam which takes place during annual maintenance in January each year.

This position would be attractive to an experienced railway industry manager looking for a change of scene and the opportunity to join one of the UK’s most successful steam locomotive operating organisations.  It may also be of interest to people who are currently active on the engineering or operations side of the heritage railway movement.

The most important quality of the successful candidate will be an ability to recruit, train, manage and motivate the engineering and operational team that supports the locomotive throughout the season.  This team includes a mixture of paid contract staff and volunteers, who possess a wide range of skills and abilities but share a high level of commitment to the A1.

Tornado travels around the country during the operating season and the LM will be expected to be with the locomotive when required, meaning significant time away from home.  Some of the locomotive’s work occurs at weekends and on Bank Holidays.  Complete flexibility of working will be an essential requirement of the job.  Basic accommodation will be available in the Support Coach.

The post will be remunerated and the LM will be expected to work the hours needed in order to carry out his/her duties to a high standard.  TST estimates that this will require around three days per week on average throughout the season.  There may be periods where more hours are required in order to meet the needs of the role.

Candidates should have main line operating experience and should preferably hold (or have recently held) a Sentinel AC&DC Personal Track Safety card.  Experience of acting as Duty Engineer (DE) or Responsible Officer (RO) for a main line steam locomotive would be preferable, but is not essential.

If you are interested in applying for this position then please write, enclosing a full CV, to the Secretary, David Burgess, at david.burgess@a1steam.com.  In your accompanying letter please state three key reasons why you believe you are well suited to this new role.

Tornado Steam Traction Limited is an equal opportunities employer.