Trainee Freight Operator

North West Queensland; Mount Isa City; On-site; AUD 52,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career development

Inclusive culture and diversity

Mentoring programs for employees

Discounts on health insurance, travel,

Parental Leave Program and Super Boost

Job summary

Aurizon in Mount Isa is seeking safety-focused Trainee Shunters to move rolling stock within our terminal and yard, perform shunting, marshalling, brake testing, and assist locomotive provisioning and yard maintenance.

This role offers progression toward becoming a qualified Locomotive Driver and supports a rotating roster with day/night shifts and weekends, requiring a proactive, team-oriented mindset and strong safety awareness.

Qualifications

• Must hold a C Class Driver's Licence and demonstrate a safety-first approach.
• Shunting qualification to be obtained is acceptable for the role.
• Mechanical mindset with good problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Safely control train movements and follow procedures.
• Conduct inspections, minor servicing and fault identification on rolling stock.
• Assist with locomotive maintenance and yard equipment upkeep.
• Perform brake tests and ensure compliance with rail safety standards.
• Communicate with depot staff, train control, and clients via radio and in person.
• Undertake shunting, marshalling and general yard duties.
• Support other depot functions as required.

Skills

C Class Licence

Shunting

Safety mindset

Mechanical mindset

Teamwork

IT systems

Education

Shunting qualification (to be obtained)

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

We're looking for safety-focused operators with to commence a Trainee position as a Shunter to join the Rail Operations team in Mount Isa. As a Shunter (Freight Operator) you'll play a hands-on role in the safe and efficient movement of rollingstock within our terminal and yard environments. This includes shunting, marshalling, brake testing, and supporting locomotive provisioning and yard maintenance activities.

It's a varied and active position that forms a critical link in our freight operations. For those looking to progress their careers with Aurizon, this role also offers a pathway to becoming a qualified Locomotive Driver, with Trainee Driver positions often offered to top performers from our Rail and Terminal Operator teams.

About the role:

• Safely control train movements and carry out operational instructions in accordance with procedures
• Conduct inspections, minor servicing, and fault identification on rollingstock
• Assist with maintenance of locomotives, support vehicles, and other depot equipment
• Perform brake tests, examinations and ensure compliance with rail safety standards
• Communicate effectively with depot staff, train control, and clients via two-way radio and face-to-face
• Undertake shunting, marshalling, and general yard duties
• Support other depot functions as required

About the Employer

At Aurizon, we invest in our people. Whether it's developing leadership capability or advancing technical skills, we provide the support and pathways to help you reach your full potential.

• Career growth and professional development
• Inclusive culture and diverse workforce
• Mentoring programs for women and Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander employees
• Discounts on health insurance, travel, retail and more
• Parental Leave Program and Super Booster benefits

At Aurizon, we believe in connection

Connection is what drives us - connecting people, places, and possibilities. We're committed to building a workplace where everyone belongs and feels valued. We embrace diversity and inclusion because we know it makes us stronger.

About Aurizon

Aurizon is Australia's largest rail freight operator and a top ASX-listed company. Every year we transport over 250 million tonnes of Australian commodities across our national network. We connect industry with global and domestic markets and are committed to safety, sustainability and delivering value for our customers and communities.

About the Candidate

• Current C Class Driver's Licence
• Valid shunting qualification (to be obtained)
• A strong safety mindset with attention to detail
• Mechanically minded with solid problem-solving skills
• Able to operate various IT systems and tablets for the role, or willingness to learn.
• Confident communicator with the ability to work in a team
• Flexibility to work across day/night shifts and weekends as part of a rotating roster (up to 12-hour shifts)