The role of a Station Maintenance Engineer at Avanti West Coast is vital to ensuring the reliability, safety, and functionality of station facilities that serve millions of passengers each year. From electrical systems and mechanical components to civil infrastructure, these engineers are the backbone of keeping stations operational, safe, and efficient. Their work reduces downtime, ensures compliance with safety regulations, and maintains the smooth operation of daily rail services.
According to recent job postings, Avanti West Coast Station Maintenance Engineers can expect a salary ranging between £33,000 to £45,000 per annum, depending on experience, certifications, and location. The job often includes rotating shifts, occasional weekend or overnight work, and hands-on maintenance involving HVAC systems, lighting, escalators, lifts, and general station upkeep.
If you’re preparing for an interview, here are the top 20 questions you may be asked, complete with sample answers to help you impress your interviewers.
1. Tell us about yourself.
I’m a qualified maintenance engineer with over five years of experience in railway infrastructure, focusing on electrical and mechanical systems. I take pride in preventive maintenance and enjoy solving complex engineering challenges under time constraints.
2. What interests you about working for Avanti West Coast?
Avanti is known for its commitment to innovation and passenger experience. I admire how it blends technology with tradition, and I want to contribute to that mission by ensuring its stations remain safe and efficient.
3. How do you handle urgent repair situations during peak hours?
I stay calm and follow established protocols. I prioritize safety, assess the issue quickly, and decide whether it requires temporary isolation or immediate full repair. Communication with the station team is essential.
4. What experience do you have with HVAC and electrical systems?
I’ve worked extensively with commercial HVAC systems, conducting inspections, filter replacements, and fault diagnostics. I’m also trained to work with high-voltage electrical systems and understand BS 7671 wiring regulations.
5. How do you keep track of scheduled maintenance tasks?
I use a combination of CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems) and manual logs. I also cross-reference with weekly station activity reports to minimize disruption.
6. What would you do if a public lift stopped working suddenly?
First, I’d isolate the lift to prevent usage. Then, I’d inspect for obvious faults or error codes. If it’s beyond immediate repair, I’d escalate to the lift service provider and update the station manager promptly.
7. Describe a time you prevented a serious equipment failure.
During a routine inspection, I noticed vibration in a platform escalator. I halted its use and discovered a misaligned drive chain. Early action prevented a full breakdown and potential passenger injury.
8. How do you ensure compliance with safety standards?
I regularly review updated safety protocols, attend internal audits, and follow risk assessments. I ensure all tasks are logged and completed using correct PPE and LOTO (Lock Out Tag Out) procedures.
9. What’s your experience with energy efficiency improvements?
At my last job, I helped implement LED lighting and occupancy sensors in a large station, cutting energy costs by 15%. I also suggested optimizing HVAC schedules to reduce power usage during low-traffic hours.
10. How do you deal with a difficult coworker or team conflict?
I stay professional and focus on common goals. If direct communication doesn’t resolve it, I involve a supervisor to mediate. Respect and collaboration are key in our environment.
11. What tools or software have you used in maintenance reporting?
I’ve used Maximo and SAP for asset tracking, fault logging, and scheduling preventive tasks. I’m also familiar with mobile apps for real-time fault reporting and updates.
12. Can you read and interpret technical drawings or schematics?
Yes, I’m comfortable reading both electrical schematics and mechanical blueprints. I’ve used them for installations and troubleshooting complex systems.
13. How would you handle a situation where you’re unfamiliar with a faulty system?
I’d consult technical documentation, check maintenance history, and seek input from more experienced colleagues. I believe it’s smart to collaborate rather than guess.
14. What’s your approach to night shifts or being on call?
I’m used to rotating shifts and on-call responsibilities. I manage rest schedules and stay organized to ensure alertness and responsiveness.
15. What steps would you take in a station-wide power failure?
I’d assess whether it’s internal or external. I’d communicate with power suppliers, use backup generators where possible, and prioritize systems like lighting, communications, and passenger safety.
16. Describe a typical preventive maintenance task you perform.
A typical task might be checking fire alarm panels, ensuring battery backup is functional, and running test alarms to confirm system operation. I document all steps and issues found.
17. How do you stay updated on new maintenance techniques or regulations?
I subscribe to engineering journals, attend training sessions, and take CPD courses. I’m also a member of a local IET chapter for ongoing learning.
18. How do you manage working alone during off-peak hours?
I ensure I follow lone-worker protocols, carry a radio or phone, and keep in touch with control. I plan tasks that are safe to do solo and delay higher-risk activities until support is available.
19. What would your former supervisor say about you?
They’d say I’m reliable, proactive, and always focused on safety. I’ve been commended for my attention to detail and willingness to take initiative in difficult situations.
20. Do you have any questions for us?
Yes – I’d love to know more about how your maintenance team integrates with other departments, and what success looks like in the first 6 months of this role.
Final Thoughts and Interview Tips
Preparing for an Avanti West Coast Station Maintenance Engineer interview means more than just knowing your tools. It’s about showcasing your reliability, technical knowledge, and safety-first mindset. Here are a few final tips to help you succeed:
Practice answers out loud to build confidence and reduce nerves.
Research Avanti West Coast’s mission and recent projects – show you’re informed.
Dress professionally, even for technical roles – first impressions matter.
Bring questions to the interview – it shows initiative and genuine interest.
Highlight real-world examples from past jobs – this adds credibility.
Good luck in your interview. If you’re well-prepared, safety-conscious, and eager to make a difference, you’re exactly the kind of engineer Avanti West Coast is looking for!
