Are you ready to build a rewarding career in a fast-paced, operational environment? Arriva London is looking for motivated, adaptable, and driven individuals to join our Route Performance Team as Trainee Controllers.
This is a unique opportunity to step into a critical role at the heart of London’s transport network, with full training, structured development, and clear career progression.
Bus Service Management is a career like no other. As a Controller, you’ll be at the centre of a 24/7 operation, ensuring bus services run safely, efficiently, and on time across the Transport for London (TfL) network.
You will:
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Communicate with drivers via radio and in person
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Monitor services using GPS tracking systems and control technology
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Regulate services to meet performance and reliability targets
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Respond quickly to disruptions, incidents, and changing conditions
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Ensure compliance with TfL operational standards
You’ll play a key role in keeping London moving—making real-time decisions that impact thousands of passengers every day.
We invest in your success from day one:
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4-week paid training programme to build your operational knowledge and confidence
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Ongoing mentorship to support your transition into the role
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Clear progression pathway within the control and operations structure
Earnings:
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Trainee Controller (0–6 months): £42,000
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Controller (6–18 months): £44,000
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Controller (18+ months): £49,337
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Overtime: £29.03 per hour
(All rates subject to annual review)
Working Pattern:
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5 days out of 7 on a rolling rota
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Includes evenings, weekends, and shift work
Additional Benefits:
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Free travel: TfL Oyster Bus Pass (plus nominee pass after 3 months)
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Employee discounts: Access to Arriva Village
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Health & wellbeing support: Employee Assistance Programme
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Generous annual leave: 33 days including bank holidays (increasing with service)
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Performance bonus scheme
We’re looking for people who thrive under pressure and enjoy solving problems in real time. You’ll need:
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Excellent communication skills – clear, confident, and professional
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Strong decision-making ability – able to assess situations quickly and act effectively
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Calmness under pressure – maintaining control in fast-moving or high-stress situations
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Situational awareness – understanding and adapting to a constantly changing environment
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Leadership and teamwork skills – influencing others and building strong working relationships
This is more than just a job—it’s a career where you can make a real impact every day. You’ll be part of a highly skilled team, working at the forefront of one of the world’s busiest transport networks.
If you’re ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role, apply today and start your journey with Arriva London.
