Rail Operator

Kiwi Rail; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Extensive training

Career progression

Uniform provided

4 weeks annual leave

Healthcare refunds (NZR Welfare Trust)

Job summary

KiwiRail in Hamilton is seeking Rail Operators to join our Freight Operations team. In this hands-on role, you'll learn on the job, work across our freight yards in all weather, and help keep New Zealand's freight moving safely and efficiently.

Training begins immediately with a clear path to progression, even if you have no rail experience. You'll perform shunting, guide drivers, position wagons, and conduct safety checks, with a supportive team and radio communication throughout your shift.

Qualifications

• Customer-focused approach and respect for local communities.
• Physical fitness and ability to undertake manual outdoor work.
• Previous shift work experience is advantageous.
• Strong commitment to health and safety and team wellbeing.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Performing shunting operations, including connecting and disconnecting wagons.
• Guiding train drivers during wagon movements and coupling activities.
• Positioning wagons into customer sidings.
• Conducting safety checks to ensure trains are fit for departure.
• Working closely with a small team and communicating clearly via radio throughout your shift.
• Safety and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do.

Skills

Customer focus

Physical fitness

Outdoor/manual work

Shift work experience

Health & Safety

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Job description

Check out what it's like to work as a Rail Operator at KiwiRail - it's time to join us!

• Located in Hamilton
• Training rate starting at $30.42 per hour rising to $33.24 once qualified
• Shift work with advance planned rosters to support work-life balance
• Excellent investment in training with genuine career progression opportunities

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

At KiwiRail, your growth matters. We're looking for people with the right attitude, a strong safety mindset, and a willingness to learn. No rail experience? That's okay. We'll provide the training, support, and development needed to help you build a long-term career with us. In this hands-on, physical role, you'll work across our freight rail yards in all weather conditions and play a vital role in keeping New Zealand's freight moving safely and efficiently.

• Performing shunting operations, including connecting and disconnecting wagons
• Guiding train drivers during wagon movements and coupling activities
• Positioning wagons into customer sidings
• Conducting safety-critical checks to ensure trains are fit for departure
• Working closely with a small team and communicating clearly via radio throughout your shift
• Safety and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do.

Applicants with experience in transport, logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, construction, farming, forestry, defence, emergency services, or other operational environments are encouraged to apply.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

• A customer-focused approach and respect for local communities
• Physical fitness and the ability to undertake manual work outdoors, including walking on uneven ground
• Previous shift work experience is advantageous
• A strong commitment to Health & Safety and looking out for the wellbeing of yourself and your team
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Time and a half on Saturdays and double time on Sundays
• 4 weeks annual leave
• Uniform provided
• Extensive training, ongoing support, and nationally recognised qualifications
• Clear pathways for career progression and increased earnings as you gain experience
• Access to NZR Welfare trust healthcare refunds for you and your family
• Exclusive discounts on Interislander and Great Journeys rail travel

Ready to build a career with KiwiRail?

Opportunities to join our Freight Operations team in Hamilton don't come up often. If you're looking for a stable, hands-on career with excellent training, long-term development opportunities, and the chance to play a key role in keeping New Zealand moving, we'd love to hear from you.

Applications close: Monday 2nd November unless fileld sooner