Trainee Network Controller - Newcastle

Australian Rail Track Corp.; Newcastle City Council; Hybrid; AUD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowances

Structured 24/7 roster

Certificate IV training included

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Novated leasing

Employee discounts

Job summary

Australian Rail Track Corp. (ARTC) is recruiting for Newcastle-based Network Controller Trainee roles. You’ll contribute to safe, efficient rail operations, learning to manage train movements, access, and incidents within a safety-critical environment.

We offer full training, including a Certificate IV in Rail Network Control, a 24/7 roster with shift allowances, and a supportive team culture that values safety, collaboration and continual development.

Qualifications

• Network Controllers come from diverse backgrounds and have transferable skills.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to safety-critical environment.
• Certificate IV in Rail Network Control will be undertaken by successful trainees.

Responsibilities

• Safely control the movement of trains and track vehicles across designated sections.
• Coordinate rail traffic movements and maintenance access requirements.
• Monitor train running and manage potential conflicts or disruptions.
• Respond to incidents and emergencies per procedures.
• Communicate instructions to train crews and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams and external rail operators.
• Maintain accurate operational records and comply with rules.

Job description

We’re one of the country’s largest rail network owners, proud to be keeping the future of transport on track.
A vital link in the nation's transport supply chain, every day our people manage the movement of over 415 freight and passenger trains across five states, 9,600km of track, 39 worksites and the lands of more than 50 First Nations. Rail isn’t just a mode of transport, it's a safer and more environmentally friendly choice. We're committed to expanding and modernising our rail network, having invested billions of dollars to ensure its efficiency and sustainability. Join us and be part of a team that’s shaping the future of transport in Australia.

About the Team

Our Heavy Haul Operations team manages one of Australia’s most significant freight rail networks, spanning the Hunter Valley and Central Northwest regions from the Port of Newcastle through to Dubbo and Moree. Operating across some of the country’s busiest and most complex rail corridors, the team safely coordinates the movement of around 250 trains each day, including coal, grain, passenger, intermodal and other bulk freight services. Network Controllers play a critical role in keeping these nationally important supply chains moving by delivering safe, efficient and reliable rail operations that support customers, regional industries and communities across the network.

About the Opportunity

ARTC is currently seeking motivated and capable people to join our Newcastle-based Network Control team.

Whether you're looking to build on an established career, make a career change, or commence a new profession through a structured traineeship, we have opportunities available. Previous rail or Network Control experience is not essential—we are looking for people with the right mindset, transferable skills and willingness to learn. We particularly encourage applications from women, career changers and people from diverse professional backgrounds.

We are recruiting for both permanent full-time and fixed-term positions, including Network Controller Trainee opportunities.

As a Network Controller, you will play a critical role in keeping Australia's rail network operating safely and efficiently. Every day, you'll help manage train movements, protect people working within the rail corridor and support the safe and reliable movement of freight and passenger services across the network.

Working within a highly collaborative team environment, Network Controllers manage rail traffic movements, coordinate access for maintenance and construction activities, and respond to operational challenges as they arise. The role combines problem solving, communication, teamwork and decision-making within a safety-critical environment supported by established procedures, technology and experienced colleagues.

As ARTC's network operates around the clock, Network Control works a 24-hour, 7-day rotating roster, including weekends and public holidays. In return, employees benefit from structured roster cycles, shift allowances and the opportunity to work within a supportive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely control the movement of trains and track vehicles across designated sections of the ARTC rail network in accordance with approved safety principles and practices.
  
• Coordinate rail traffic movements and maintenance access requirements to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the network.
  
• Monitor train running and proactively manage potential conflicts or operational disruptions.
  
• Respond to incidents, emergencies and operational irregularities in accordance with established procedures.
  
• Communicate clear and accurate instructions to train crews, work groups and other operational stakeholders.
  
• Work collaboratively with adjoining Network Controllers, maintenance teams and external rail operators to support safe and efficient network operations.
  
• Maintain accurate operational records and ensure compliance with relevant rules, procedures and notices.
  

What do we want from you?

Network Controllers come from diverse backgrounds including transport, emergency services, aviation, logistics, customer service, defence, hospitality, retail leadership and other environments where safety, communication and decision-making are important.

We're looking for people who can demonstrate strengths in several of the following areas:

• Safety Focus – a commitment to working safely and contributing to a zero-harm culture.
• Customer Focus – delivering positive outcomes for customers and stakeholders.
• Problem Solving & Decision Making – assessing situations, thinking critically and making sound decisions in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Attention to Detail – accurately interpreting and applying information in a safety-critical setting.
• Communication & Teamwork – building positive working relationships and communicating clearly, confidently and professionally with a broad range of stakeholders.
• Organisation & Multi-tasking – managing competing priorities while maintaining accuracy and situational awareness.
• Learning Agility – willingness to undertake training and continually develop new skills.

Successful trainees will undertake a Certificate IV in Rail Network Control (TLI40921).

Our traineeship program provides structured learning, practical experience and extensive support to help set you up for success, including:

• Face-to-face learning and classroom instruction.
• On-the-job experience within our Network Control Centre.
• Field visits to gain a practical understanding of railway operations.
• One-on-one mentoring from experienced and qualified Network Controllers.
• Ongoing coaching and development throughout the qualification period.
  

We provide the training, mentoring and support—you bring the willingness to learn and commitment to safe operations.

What will you get from us?

You will have access to a variety of benefits, including:

• Attractive remuneration package, inclusive of shift allowances and a structured 24/7 roster.
• Permanent and fixed-term full-time opportunities available.
• Full training provided, including a Certificate IV in Rail Network Control.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program for employees and their immediate family members.
• Access to a range of financial, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits, including novated leasing and employee discounts.

Why Join ARTC?

• At ARTC, we recognise that diverse teams make better decisions, create stronger outcomes and foster more inclusive workplaces.
• We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and those looking to transition into a new career.
• Network Control offers a rewarding career with opportunities for professional development and progression into senior operational, specialist and leadership roles.

Our Organisation and Culture

At ARTC, we’re more than just a rail network. We’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to keeping Australia moving forward. Our culture is one of inclusion & collaboration, and continuous improvement. We’re focused on growth, not just for our business but for our people and our country.

In everything we do, safety is our top priority. We believe in providing a safe workplace where everyone can thrive. Our commitment to safety is not just a statement; it’s a fundamental part of who we are and enables us to best serve our customers and communities.

Our people are at the heart of our success. We value their expertise, their passion, and their dedication. We invest in their development and empower them to make a difference. Together, we are building a future where rail is the preferred mode of transport, contributing to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Australia.

J oin us at ARTC and be a part of a team that's shaping the future of transport in Australia.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent.