Level 2- Assistant Driver- Gunnedah

Pacific National; Newcastle; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid parental leave

Novated leasing options

Fitness Passport and wellbeing program

Job summary

Pacific National is seeking safety-focused Level 2 Assistant Drivers to join the Coal and Bulk team in NSW. You will complete Engine & Air school and be trained as a Level 4 Locomotive Driver, with full Australian working rights and a 24/7 roster.

The role emphasizes safety, training, and career development within Australia’s largest private rail freight operator. Join a company that provides industry-leading training, supportive rosters designed for safety, generous employee benefits, and a

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate a safety-first mindset and commitment to safe operations.
• Flexible to work a 24/7 rotating roster and shift patterns.
• Proven ability to communicate clearly in safety-critical environments.
• Understanding of compliance requirements and regulatory standards.
• Dependable and reliable with a strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Prioritise safety in every moment and follow required procedures.
• Complete pre-start checks and ensure compliance documentation is accurate.
• Prepare, operate and shut down locomotives following procedures.
• Maintain clear, professional communication in safety-critical environments.
• Monitor train performance and respond to changing conditions.
• Collaborate with teams to deliver safe, reliable outcomes for customers.

Skills

Safety mindset

24/7 roster flexibility

Strong communication

Compliance awareness

Reliability

Education

Class C licence

Rail Medical & Musculoskeletal

National Police Check

Full Australian working rights

Job description

We're looking for safety focused, Level 2 Assistant Drivers to join our Coal and Bulk team in Gunnedah, NSW. Following your onboarding, you will complete Engine & Air school and be trained as a Level 4 Locomotive Driver.

Join Pacific National - Australia's largest private rail freight operator.

Why Pacific National?

Every day Pacific National transport millions of tonnes of critical freight around the country for our customers. With a broad customer base situated across mainland Australia and operating in diverse industries, we transport a mix of containerised freight, coal, import/export goods, and bulk commodities.

Why You'll Love This Role

• Industry leading training, development and support from experienced crews
• Rosters designed to support safe work
• Attractive employee benefits; paid parental leave, novated leasing options, Fitness Passport and wellbeing programs
• Supportive work environment
• Career development opportunities
• Inclusive culture

What You Will Do

• Prioritise safety in every moment, safely every day
• Complete pre-start checks and required compliance documentation
• Prepare, operate and shut down locomotives in line with operational procedures
• Maintain clear, professional communication in safety critical environments
• Monitor train performance and respond to changing conditions
• Work with teams to deliver safe, reliable outcomes for customers

What We're Looking For

• Full Australian working rights

Level 2 Assistant Driver Nationally Recognised Qualifications

• NSW Safe Working qualifications (Train Order will be advantageous)
• Valid unrestricted Class C licence and reliable transport
• Category 1 Rail Medical, Musculoskeletal assessment, and ongoing drug/alcohol compliance
• National Police Check
• A strong, proven commitment to safety
• Ability to work a 24/7 rotating roster
• Flexibility to meet operational demands

Why North-West NSW?

Build a strong career in a region that values hard working people and real community. Enjoy regional living including more space, easier commutes, and a lifestyle built around family, agriculture and the outdoors.

Come live and work in the heart of one of NSW's most celebrated country towns - recently recognised as Australia's Best Country Escape in 2025 - and enjoy all the benefits of regional living without compromise.

We are a company built on solid foundations with a team of dedicated people, guided by common values; Make it Simple, Share More, Kindness, Gratitude, Curiosity, Own It.

We care about each other and the work we do, because of this, 'we care more' is the Pacific National core philosophy.

Pacific National acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live, work, and rail.