Rail Professional Magazine (February 2025) Article: Blueprint for High Performing Depot Teams
In this recent Rail Professional magazine feature, Jo Lawrence shared how a major rail client partnered with OPC Assessment to enhance recruitment for Depot Drivers, Signal Operators, and Shunters through a bespoke Non-Technical Skills (NTS) profiling initiative and recruitment process streamlining.
NTS Profiling:
A key feature of any new role recruitment project is NTS Profiling. OPC psychologists conducted research to develop an evidence-based NTS framework, identifying key skills for each depot role. such as;
| Depot Drivers: | Concentration, decision-making, coordination. |
| Shunters: | Risk anticipation, strength, rule adherence, teamwork. |
| Signal Operators: | Problem-solving, risk anticipation, decisiveness. |
Some common NTS were identified across roles including concentration, rule adherence, and emotional resilience.
Specialised Assessment Tools
Over decades, OPC Assessment have developed specialist assessment tools to help recruiters identify top talent. The Depot feature highlighted some key tests to help measure the NTS profiled. E.g.,
- Safe Concentration and Attention Test (SCAAT) – Measures vigilance and focus.
- Risk Anticipation & Time Focus Questionnaire (RTQ) – Profiles behaviours linked to effective risk anticipation.
- Driver Fault Finding Test (DFFT) – Assesses problem-solving and reasoning skills.
Recruitment & Career Progression
The Rail Professional article goes on to explain how the OPC suggested a generic selection process where all candidates completed standard assessment tests before being proposed for a best-fit role, based on their skills.
"Specific test performance could qualify candidates for multiple roles, while a different score may indicate a better fit for a specific job. Once assigned, candidates can undergo role-specific assessment tests and NTS-based interviews, helping improve efficiency, flexibility, and the candidate experience."
Jo Lawrence, Joint CEO at the OPC
Career Growth & Retention
With some common NTS across roles, the article shares how the OPC can support organisations with career development initiatives like cross-role training, clear career pathways, mentoring, and leadership development. These approaches not only enhance career growth, but can also address retention challenges, particularly among Depot Drivers wanting to transition to mainline roles.
Retention Strategies
The article went on to share some reflections on Depot operators challenges with Driver retention and offered some solutions. Through research to delve into employee motivations, the OPC can help design strategies for longer-term employee engagement.
"Streamlining recruitment and enhancing career progression is key to a skilled, engaged depot team. OPC Assessment’s Depot recruitment blueprint can help develop successful operations; motivate teams, support employee advancement, and bring about longer-term workforce sustainability."
Jo Lawrence, Joint CEO at the OPC
You can read the full article here.
Get in touch with our friendly OPC Assessment team to discover how we could help you recruit and develop your depot workforce.