stories Chris Ashworth – Camera Operator Find your career

What does the role entail?

The Railway Camera Operator is our ‘eyes in the sky’. They are the eagle-eyed experts that capture footage of the tracks from above, spotting hazards, potential dangers and anything that needs fixing. You can spot problems from afar before they happen, finding creative solutions, as you lead the way you’re your steady hands, sharp eyes and smart thinking.

Skills Required:

Aiming High
Leadership
Teamwork

What was your educational pathway?

I finished education in 1987 after success in O level examinations and joined BR in Sept 1987.

What do you love about the role?

I have the best office on the railway in the helicopter. Although we may be doing the same task, it’s always in a different varied area. Also the unpredictable nature of the work, especially over the winter, we are frequently sent on reactive surveys post named storms and other weather events which take priority over our planned taskings.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about this or any other career within the rail industry, please get in touch with us and a member of our team will be more than happy to anser any questions you might have!

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

I’ve loved aviation, trains and ships since I was a child. In later life I found I like to get out in nature in my motorhome, in this country and abroad too.