Container Terminal Operator

KiwiRail Freight; Māngere-Ōtāhuhu; On-site; NZD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A state-owned enterprise in New Zealand is looking for a Container Terminal Trainee to join their team in Auckland. You will undergo comprehensive training to operate heavy machinery and perform crucial safety checks in freight handling. The ideal candidate is passionate about learning and working within a collaborative environment. No prior experience is required as full training is provided, alongside competitive pay and opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

Competitive hourly rate

Full training and PPE uniform provided

Opportunities for career progression

Access to discounted health insurance

Exclusive discounts on scenic train journeys

Qualifications

• Interest in the freight and logistics industry is essential.
• Commitment to working safely and following procedures is required.
• Ability to get a CAT2 medical clearance and pass drug screening.

Responsibilities

• Undertake training in container terminal operations and safety regulations.
• Conduct checks on containers and wagons for safety compliance.
• Complete forms and paperwork while maintaining operating safety rules.

Skills

Physical fitness

Teamwork

Effective communication

Basic computer skills

Education

Full, clean Class 1 Driver's Licence

Job description

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• $29.68 per hour starting rate moving to $31.49 on completion of CTO 1 training

At KiwiRail, we’re proud to connect New Zealand - carrying people, goods, and ideas across the country with care and efficiency. Our mission is to do this sustainably, safely, and together. As a state-owned enterprise, we’re invested in the future of Aotearoa, and our people are at the heart of that vision. When you join us, you become part of a team that values community, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

As a Container Terminal Trainee, you’ll start your journey into the dynamic world of container terminal operations. You will undertake a range of introductory training with our trainer on site to gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to support the movement of freight through our terminals using the essential safety procedures. We will train you up safely to operate our 8 tonne foklift and 48 tonne container hoists and enable you to work in the full Container Terminal Operator capacity.

Working first as a Trainee, you will be responsible for:

• Undertaking a range of introductory training and development in the fields of CT Operations as well as Health and Safety regulations
• Conducting checks on containers/wagons to ensure twist locks and pins are in place, freight is contained, and setups completed
• Conducting ground and yard checks, complete forms and paperwork and comply with operating safety rules
• Undergo training to achieve certification to operate heavy machinery

Once you’ve completed your initial training and safety certifications, you’ll progress to aTerminal Operator Grade 1 role, with the opportunity to build toward a full qualification as a Container Terminal Operator.

We want you to collaborate and grow while you work at KiwiRail. We are looking for a Trainee Container Terminal Operator to increase our capacity to deliver seamless services to our various customers.Our ideal candidate is passionate, motivated and keen to learn new skills – you don’t need experience, just the right work-ethic. We are excited to hear from you if you are looking for a career path and an opportunity to grow. Full training and development is provided. If you hold a class 2 or forklift licence already – that is great, if not – that is also fine as we will support you to achieve and gain specific licensing.

• A full, clean Class 1 Driver'sLicence (essential)
• An interest in the freight and logistics industry
• A commitment to working safely
• To be physically fit and can work outdoors in all weather
• Work well in a team following procedures
• Reliable with a positive attitude
• Ability to communicate effectively both in written and oral English language
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to get a CAT2 medical clearance (incl. drug & alcohol screening) and satisfactory ministry of justice check

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• A competitive hourly rate + time and a half Saturdays and double time Sundays
• Full training and PPE uniform provided - no prior rail experience needed
• Opportunities to progress in terminal operations
• A team that values your safety, wellbeing, and career growth
• Access to NZR Welfare’s discounted health insurance and holiday homes across NZ
• Exclusive discounts on the Interislander and Great Journey scenic trains

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re ready to start a hands-on career that supports communities and connects Aotearoa, we want to hear from you. Apply today and be part of our journey to build a stronger, more sustainable rail network.

Important Notice: Please Note, all successful candidates must undergo and pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen.Due to the nature of this role, we require successful candidates to hold a NZ residence or citizenship .