Jobtrain vs Lever: Which ATS is Right for Your Business?
TL;DR
Choosing the right Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can significantly streamline your hiring process. Jobtrain and Lever are two popular options, each catering to different business needs. This guide provides an in-depth comparison to help UK and EU hiring managers decide which system best fits their requirements. From features to pricing, we've got you covered with all the essential details you need.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Jobtrain | Lever |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Varies by tier | Varies by tier |
| Starting price | Varies | Varies |
| UK GDPR compliance | Partial | Partial |
| UK job boards | Limited | Limited |
| AI CV screening | Varies | Varies |
| UK support hours | Limited | Limited |
Feature availability may vary by plan. Last updated February 2026.
TL;DR Summary
Jobtrain excels in serving the UK public sector, NHS, and educational institutions with tailored features and compliance. Lever, on the other hand, is well-suited for tech companies and startups, offering robust integration capabilities and a modern interface. Choose Jobtrain if your focus is on compliance and public sector needs. Opt for Lever if you prioritize integrations and a sleek user experience for tech-driven environments.
| Feature | Jobtrain | Lever |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | UK public sector, NHS, education | Tech companies and startups |
| Starting price | Yes | Yes |
| UK GDPR compliance | Yes | Yes |
| UK job boards | Yes (NHS Jobs) | Yes |
| AI screening | No | Yes |
| Support timezone | UK timezone | Global |
Company Overview
Jobtrain was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in the UK. It has carved out a niche in the public sector, including the NHS and educational institutions. Known for its compliance with UK regulations, Jobtrain serves a wide range of clients, providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of these industries.
Lever was established in 2012 in San Francisco, USA. It primarily targets tech companies and startups, offering a modern, integrative approach to recruitment. Lever focuses on creating a seamless experience through its collaborative hiring model, serving a diverse customer base that values innovation and connectivity in their recruitment processes.
Both companies have established themselves as leaders in their respective markets, with strong reputations for customer satisfaction and reliable service.
Detailed Feature Comparison
CV Parsing and Screening: Jobtrain offers robust CV parsing capabilities, particularly useful for large volumes of applications typical in public sector recruitment. Lever provides similar parsing features but enhances them with AI-driven insights, offering a more dynamic approach for tech-focused environments.
AI/Automation Features: Jobtrain includes automated workflows that streamline the hiring process, essential for sectors with stringent compliance requirements. Lever, however, takes automation a step further with sophisticated AI tools that enhance candidate matching and engagement, appealing to data-driven tech companies.
Integrations: Jobtrain integrates well with UK-specific job boards, making it a preferred choice for local recruitment. Lever excels in its ability to integrate with a wide array of global platforms, including popular tech tools, enhancing its appeal to international startups.
Reporting and Analytics: Both platforms offer comprehensive reporting tools. Jobtrain provides detailed compliance and diversity reports, while Lever offers advanced analytics that helps in understanding hiring trends and improving recruitment strategies.
Collaboration Features: Lever stands out with its collaborative hiring model, enabling teams to work together seamlessly. Jobtrain, while providing solid collaboration tools, focuses more on compliance and regulatory workflows.
Pricing Comparison
Pricing for both Jobtrain and Lever varies based on the specific needs and size of the organization. Jobtrain typically offers tailored pricing for public sector clients, often including compliance and support services in their packages. Lever usually provides a per-seat pricing model, suitable for growing tech companies that require flexibility and scalability.
Both platforms may offer free trials, allowing potential customers to explore their features before committing. For a 10-person team, costs can vary significantly based on the chosen package and additional services required. It's advisable to contact both companies directly for precise pricing information tailored to your business needs.
Understanding the pricing structures will help align your budget with your recruitment goals, ensuring that you get the most value from your investment.
User Experience
Both Jobtrain and Lever offer user-friendly interfaces, though they cater to different user experiences. Jobtrain provides a straightforward setup with a focus on compliance, making it ideal for traditional sectors. Lever’s interface is modern and intuitive, designed for tech-savvy users who value seamless integration and collaboration.
The learning curve for Jobtrain is minimal, particularly for those familiar with UK recruitment practices. Lever might require a bit more time to master due to its advanced features, but it offers excellent support and resources to help users get up to speed. Both platforms offer mobile access, ensuring recruiters can manage applicants on the go, although Lever's mobile app is often praised for its sleek design and functionality.
Overall, the choice between the two will largely depend on the specific needs and tech proficiency of your hiring team.
Who Should Choose Jobtrain
Jobtrain is an excellent choice for organizations within the UK public sector, including NHS and educational institutions. Its strengths lie in compliance and tailored solutions for these industries. Teams that require robust regulatory workflows and focus on diversity and inclusion will find Jobtrain’s features particularly beneficial.
Additionally, if budget constraints are a significant concern, Jobtrain’s pricing models can be more accommodating to public sector budgets, providing necessary features without unnecessary extras. For those prioritizing UK job board integrations and local support, Jobtrain remains a standout option.
Ultimately, Jobtrain is best suited for traditional industries seeking a reliable, compliance-focused recruitment solution that integrates well with existing processes.
Who Should Choose Lever
Lever is ideal for tech companies and startups looking for an innovative recruitment platform that supports growth and scalability. Its modern interface and collaborative features make it perfect for dynamic teams that value seamless communication and integration with other tech tools.
Organizations aiming for a global reach, with diverse hiring needs that extend beyond the UK, will benefit from Lever’s extensive integration capabilities. The platform is well-suited for businesses that prioritize advanced analytics and AI-driven insights to enhance their recruitment strategies.
For tech-driven environments that appreciate flexibility and a cutting-edge approach, Lever provides a comprehensive solution that aligns with forward-thinking business goals and workflows.
Lever is particularly beneficial for teams that require a scalable solution that can evolve with their growing needs.
Jobtrain vs Lever FAQs
Looking for an alternative to both?
If neither option fits your needs, Marxel offers AI-powered CV screening built specifically for UK/EU businesses with native GDPR compliance.
Learn more about Marxel