Transport for London (TfL) is responsible for virtually every mode of transport in the UK’s Capital and employs more than 27,000 staff. When it comes to taking on graduates, a number of routes are offered including project management, engineering, quantity surveyors or information management and there is a focus on giving responsibility early on. Rated the number 1 larger intake firm in transport, logistics & distribution graduate job rankings in 2014/2015, TfL scores particularly highly on work life balance (4.7), training (4.4) and compensation & benefits (4.4).
Average salary for TfL’s graduate positions was between £25,000 and £27,000 whilst one graduate explained that ‘there is no bonus but you do get a free travel card for you and a member of your family’. Average working hours were 9am – 5pm and many graduates described flexible schedules as long as the core 10am – 4pm hours are covered along with 35 hour week requirements.
The best and worst things about working for TfL included:
‘A large graduate intake each year so a good social life. No pressure to work over your contracted hours. Large amount of responsibility in terms of workload. 4, 6 month placements so get to experience different teams and learn new skills. Can be bureaucratic.’ Commercial Graduate, Commercial Procurement
‘Friendly and inspiring atmosphere/environment, important and interesting work, great emphasis on development, excellent work/life balance. Really nothing – the job can be quite political and there can be a lot of hard work which just gets thrown away by politicians. But I find these aspects exciting!’ Transport Planner, TfL Planning
‘The best thing about the job is that every day is different. Due to the nature of the job – which is heavily dependent on the traffic – no two days are alike – meaning a varied and interesting job. The worst thing about the job is the times when we have to work early mornings and late evenings (occasionally overnight). The necessity to work during AM and PM peaks, and review signals at all periods of the day, mean it is sometimes necessary to work at strange hours.’ Traffic Control Engineer
Finally, interview tips given by TfL graduates include:
Application Advice: ‘Before taking the required online tests, use the available practice tests that can be found online for practicing and preparing for the real one. Spend a lot of time on the written application as a lot of candidates are unsuccessful at this stage. Be passionate about London and the role of TfL within it. Don’t be afraid of being “geeky” – TfL is an organisation where being interested and passionate about cities, transport and how they work and interact is valued.’
Interview Advice: ‘Research the company and learn about all the different services it provides and how it invests in upgrading the network in order to keep up with increasing passenger demand. Show that you are genuinely interested in working for TfL Practice your presentation skills and engage with your interviewers. Think about how you think different modes of transport in London should be prioritised in different situations.’
Click here for more information on graduate jobs with TfL.
