About 8,000 people have applied for 100 train driver jobs on Scotland’s railways in just one week.
ScotRail is recruiting trainee train drivers for depots including Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Gourock, Inverness, Perth and Stirling.
During their first year of training, they will be paid £24,559, which will gradually rise to £43,212 following a probationary period.
The company launched the recruitment drive as part of its plans to expand timetables and roll out faster, bigger and greener trains.
Applications opened last Thursday and close next Wednesday.
Phil Verster, managing director of the ScotRail Alliance, said: “These new roles present a great opportunity for those looking to embark on an exciting new career in the railway.
“Supporting the people of Scotland and the country’s economy is very important to us.
“Our staff are our biggest asset and we’re looking forward to welcoming a further batch of driver recruits to ScotRail.”
ScotRail said it wants to hear from enthusiastic, reliable candidates with “excellent attention spans, experience of safety-critical roles and a passion for customer service”.
After the initial sift, successful applicants undertake the first part of a psychometric test, followed by an interview.
Those selected then undergo the second part of the psychometric test, followed by a medical exam.
New recruits will be put on a one-year training programme which consists of a mix of classroom-based learning, route learning and at least 265 hours of supervised driving.
Following training, drivers have a three-week period of driving exams and will be issued with a train driving licence if they pass.