Container Terminal Operator

KiwiRail Freight; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 62,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full training provided

PPE uniform provided

Opportunities to progress in terminal-

Safety-focused team environment

Job summary

KiwiRail Freight is seeking motivated individuals to start as Container Terminal Trainees. You’ll receive 8–10 weeks of on-site training, learning container terminal operations and safety procedures, progressing to a Terminal Operator Grade 1.

A NZ residence or citizenship is required, with travel and training logistics covered. The role offers a starting hourly rate of 30.42 NZD, with growth as you progress, and full training plus PPE provided.

Qualifications

• Class 1 Full Licence is essential.
• NCEA Level 1 in Maths and English required.
• Forklift licence is beneficial or desired.
• Willingness to train and learn in a fast-paced container terminal environment.

Responsibilities

• Undertake introductory training in Container Terminal Operations and Health and Safety regulations.
• Conduct checks on containers/wagons to ensure twist locks and pins are in place, freight is contained, and setups completed.
• Perform ground and yard checks, complete forms and paperwork and comply with operating safety rules.
• Undergo training to achieve certification to operate large, heavy machinery.
• Progress from Trainee to Terminal Operator Grade 1 with potential to become a Container Terminal Operator or Gate Officer.

Skills

Team player

English communication

Safety focus

Physically fit

Basic computer skills

Education

Class 1 Full Licence (essential)

NCEA Level 1 in Maths and English

Forklift licence (beneficial)

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

• $30.42 per hour starting hourly rate, increasing upon progression to CTO 1.
• Training lasts 8–10 weeks, Monday to Friday during normal working hours. You might need to train in a different city and travel home every two weeks. All travel, accommodation, and meals during training are covered.

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 to safely operate our 20 tonne and 48 tonne container hoists and enable you to work in the full Container Terminal Operator capacity.

Working first as a Trainee, you will:

• Undertake a range of introductory training and development in the fields of Container Terminal Operations and Health and Safety regulations
• Conduct checks on containers/wagons to ensure twist locks and pins are in place, freight is contained, and setups completed
• Conduct ground and yard checks, complete forms and paperwork and comply with operating safety rules
• Undergo training to achieve certification to operate large, heavy machinery
• Once you’ve completed your initial training and safety certifications, you’ll progress to a Terminal Operator Grade 1 role, with the opportunity to build toward a full qualification as a Container Terminal Operator or Gate Officer.

We want you to collaborate and grow while you work at KiwiRail. This role aids to increase our capacity to deliver seamless services to our various customers.Our ideal candidate is passionate, motivated, keen to learn new skills and upholds a good 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.

• Class 1FullLicence (essential)
• NCEA Level 1 in Maths and English
• An interest in the freight and logistics industry
• A commitment to working safely
• Physically fit and can work outdoors in all weather
• Work well in a team following procedures
• Ability to communicate effectively both in written and oral English language
• Basic computer skills

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
• Opportunities to progress in terminal operations
• A team that values your safety, wellbeing, and career growth

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.