Daniel Bruckner is a passionate machinist. The experienced ÖBB employee spoke to the “Krone” about how he could fulfill his childhood dream, what he likes most about his job and how he copes with the irregular working hours. His tip for everyone who wants to get started in this exciting job: bring enthusiasm for large machines and the material of the railway!
“crown”: Wwhat exactly do you do in your work! What is the job of a machinist?
The core task is the safe and punctual transport of passenger and freight trains from A to B. In addition, there are a large number of activities that are necessary before or after a train journey to be able to carry it out safely, such as putting vehicles into and out of service , brake tests, checking vehicles and certain safety features. But also personal preparation, whether it concerns the train journey itself, or knowledge of changes in company regulations.
How did you come to apply for a job at ÖBB?
It was my childhood dream to become a machinist and thanks to all the information I could get about the machinist profession, I knew from the start that ÖBB would offer the most interesting and varied working environment, but above all very good training. All that and a few newspaper advertisements from ÖBB, just at the right time, eventually led to my application.
How does the training work?
Of course, training today is a bit different than it was for me in 2008. But basically it is divided into different modules, in which you learn and deepen technical and operational basics, but also practical parts, in which you work both on the simulator and in real driving service with a driving trainer/instructor learns and perfects. Of course there are also some important tests. If you have successfully completed this, two more parts follow, in which you slowly but surely gain experience in the assigned home office. All in all, the training now takes about 68 weeks.
What was it like when you drove alone for the first time?
Of course I was nervous for the first few meters and very concentrated, so as not to do anything wrong during the first shift. Fortunately, the nervousness quickly disappeared. What remained was the concentration and the overwhelming feeling of being solely responsible for such a large machine.
How do you deal with irregular working hours?
Irregular shift work is certainly not for everyone. Shifts on public holidays, sometimes a very early start or long night shifts are part of this. You have to be clear about that. However, this is not a problem for me personally. Due to the irregular shift schedule, in which I work an average of three to four times a week, I even have more time for my family and I can do or do things that you do with regular shifts. time on weekends. In other words, to compensate for the irregular shift work, there is a need for relaxation and recreation on a physical, mental and social level.
It should also be emphasized that ÖBB already provides a lot of information and seminars on how to deal with irregular shifts during training, but also during an active career as a driver.
What do you like most about your job?
The best thing about my job is that I still enjoy it after almost 15 years. This is due to the variety through different vehicles and routes, the personal responsibility and independence to be brought in and the friendly way in which colleagues treat each other.
How can someone get into your job? What requirements do you need?
You need a completed education, must be at least 19 years old, have excellent eyesight and hearing and a very good knowledge of German. In addition, one must be a responsible, absolutely reliable and punctual personality.
If you can also get excited about big machines and the subject of railways, you have the best qualifications.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
