It's been a bad times for jobs in North Wales - with the coronavirus pandemic hitting key sectors like tourism and manufacturing.
This has seen unemployment start to rise with fears in the coming months joblessness could return to the levels last seen under Margaret Thatcher's government in the 1980s.
But there are still opportunities in some sectors and this week a search was started for new train drivers in Wales.
While the job may no longer be one school children dreamt of in times gone by it remains a potentially fulfilling and well paid career.
Transport for Wales have posted the adverts and the essential requirements shouldn't exclude too many in the workforce.
There is no experience needed and full training is given. No salary is stated, but once qualified drivers can earn in excess of £50,000.
Transport for Wales said: "Now is a great time to join Transport for Wales. We're busy transforming the railway and as a trainee train driver you could be an important part of the journey.
"No previous experience is needed for the role as our comprehensive training programme will prepare you for all that may come your way. What matters is that you are over 21 years of age and share our passion for keeping Wales moving.
"You need to live within one hour of your chosen depot, instinctively put safety first and understand the importance of great customer service, strong performance, rules and regulations."
They added: "For the right person, this can be the start of a fantastic career. We'll support you every step of the way with ongoing training and professional development. We also offer a very competitive salary package that includes an excellent pension and free rail travel on our services for you and your dependents.
"We are significantly under-represented by women at present therefore, we're actively looking for both men and women; in fact, we'd love it if more women wanted to become train drivers."
This is a safety critical role and as a result applicants will need to undertake a strict medical which will require full physical fitness and a drug and alcohol test.
They warn that the recruitment process for trainee drivers takes time but promise "it will be worth it for those that are successful".
If successful throughout the recruitment process, people will be held in their 'Talent Pool' until a training course becomes available.
A spokesman added: "Our training programme is 34 weeks long, and during this time you will learn all the theory of train driving, drive our train simulators to familiarise yourself with train driving, and then spend approximately 26 weeks as a trainee train driver accompanied by an experienced instructor. Once completed, you will be fully assessed in all aspects of the role by one of our driver team managers.
"Good luck in your application - we look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you aboard with Transport for Wales."
