SOC 2020 code 8231 · Process, plant and machine operatives
Whether this occupation can be sponsored for a Skilled Worker visa, its going rate, the job titles filed under the code, and the licensed sponsors advertising these jobs.
Not eligible
Train and tram drivers (SOC 8231) is not an eligible occupation for the Skilled Worker visa, so it cannot be sponsored on that route.
Annual salaries for a 37.5-hour week, from Appendix Skilled Occupations (updated 3 Aug 2026).
Appendix Skilled Occupations gives no going rate for this occupation.
Sources: Appendix Skilled Occupations, Skilled Worker salary rules, when you can be paid less.
The ONS coding index files 15 job titles under this code. A note in brackets is the setting the title applies to: the same title can sit under another code elsewhere. The code on a certificate of sponsorship follows the job’s duties, so check them with CASCOT or the employer.
We have not read an advert we could place in this code since October 2025. We read visa sponsorship adverts from Reed and Adzuna every 4 hours.
From Appendix Skilled Occupations and the Temporary Shortage List (GOV.UK), the ONS SOC 2020 coding index, and job adverts we read and match to the Home Office register. We place an advert in a code from its title, so some adverts may be in the wrong code. Whether a person can be sponsored also depends on their own circumstances. This page is information, not immigration advice. Profile built 7 Oct 2026.
Train and tram drivers (SOC 8231) is not an eligible occupation for the Skilled Worker visa, so it cannot be sponsored on that route.
Appendix Skilled Occupations gives no going rate for this occupation.
The ONS coding index files 15 job titles under 8231, including diesel driver, driver, engine driver, engineman, loco driver, locomotive driver, locomotive engine driver, rail car driver. The employer chooses the code on the certificate of sponsorship from the job's duties, not its title.