Skip Navigation LinksHome > Corporate > Human Resources > FAQs

FAQs

HR FAQs

What makes Heathrow Express different from other train operating companies?

Heathrow Express has a specific aim to extend the airline experience from London Heathrow to London Paddington. Our service is designed to meet that aspiration.

We have been operating for just over 10 years and are a private company, unlike most rail operating companies who have been operating for many more years and are government franchises.

Back to top

What qualities are you looking for in an employee?

We're looking for people who are capable and committed but who are enthusiastic and willing to learn too.

As a company we rely on teamwork, so getting along with colleagues and customers is a must. As a service provider we exist to deliver the highest standards at all times.

We are looking for people to complement our existing team of individuals who are committed to delivering excellent customer service. Our employees are excellent communicators, with a professional approach who take pride in their appearance and attitude.

Back to top

How do you go about selecting employees?

When assessing candidates for Heathrow Express roles we use a variety of selection tools. These can include criteria based interview, role play, group exercise, presentation and psychometric testing.

Back to top

If I have already applied to Heathrow Express before, can I reapply?

Yes you can! If you are applying for different roles you may apply as often as you like. If you are re-applying for the same role we ask that you wait 12 months in order to give yourself time to develop your skills and experience further.

Back to top

What can I expect if I am made an offer of employment?

All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and to an acceptable pre employment health screen. Some roles would be required to undertake a Criminal Records Check. These conditions are not mere formalities and must be met, at which time an offer shall become unconditional.

Back to top

What opportunities are there for career progression?

We advertise all of our vacancies internally, giving our employees the opportunity to develop their careers within Heathrow Express.

We have a large proportion of employees who have transferred roles internally. For example, 97% of our Customer Service Operators were once Customer Service Representatives.

Back to top

How would my performance be appraised?

As a forward thinking and innovative company, we believe in making the most of our employees’ talents, allowing them to develop their roles and, in doing so, their opportunities.

You will have an annual performance review with your line manager. This provides an opportunity for you and your manager to discuss your performance as well as identify your personal development plan.

Back to top

What shifts would I be expected to work as an operational employee?

We run trains for 365 days per year. The majority of our frontline employees work 6 days on followed by 4 days off. These shifts consist of early, middle or late shifts.

Each shift lasts between 7-10 hours dependant on the shift:

Early shift start – c.04.30am

Middle shift start – c.11.00am

Late shift start – c15.30pm

Late shift end – c12:30am

Locations:

Your will be required to start work at any of our locations: Heathrow Central station, Heathrow Terminal 4, Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5.

Back to top

What hours would I work as a office based employee?

Office based employees work 39 hours per week, inclusive of meal breaks. You will be required to work Monday to Friday. You will be based in our offices in Paddington.

Back to top

I understand I will be required to attend a medical assessment. What will this entail?

All candidates who are successful are required to attend a medical assessment.

For operational employees this will include an assessment in line with railway group standards. This will include an assessment of your eyesight, hearing, body mass index, general health and a drugs & alcohol screening.

For more details view the railway group standards

Office based employees will be required to attend a general health check and a drugs and alcohol screening.

Back to top

Book your tickets
Register