Level 2- Assistant Driver- Gunnedah

Pacific National; Sydney; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific National in Gunnedah, NSW is seeking safety-focused Level 2 Assistant Drivers to join our Coal and Bulk team. After onboarding you will complete Engine & Air school and be trained as a Level 4 Locomotive Driver, supporting the movement of freight across regional NSW.

Join Australia’s largest private rail freight operator and benefit from industry-leading training, supportive crews, and a roaster designed with safety in mind.

Qualifications

• NSW Safe Working qualifications and a valid Class C licence are required.
• Rail medical, musculoskeletal assessment and ongoing drug/alcohol compliance are necessary.
• National Police Check is mandatory for the role.

Responsibilities

• 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 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.

Education

NSW Safe Working qualifications

Valid Class C licence

Category 1 Rail Medical

Musculoskeletal assessment

National Police Check

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.