Trainee Rail Operator

KiwiRail; Palmerston North; On-site; NZD 42,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Time and a half on Saturdays and half/

Uniform provided

Extensive training, ongoing support, &

Career progression opportunities

NZR Welfare trust healthcare refunds

Discounts on Interislander and Great J

Job summary

KiwiRail Freight in Palmerston North is hiring for a hands-on Rail Operator. You will work across freight yards in all weather, performing shunting, guiding drivers, and ensuring wagons are safely positioned for departures. Training is provided, with real career progression and a strong safety culture.

Expect shift work with planned rosters, thorough safety checks, and teamwork across a small team. We welcome applicants from diverse operational backgrounds and offer extensive training and

Qualifications

• No rail experience required; full training provided.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather.
• Strong safety mindset 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-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.

Skills

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Communication

Physical fitness

Willingness to learn

Job description

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

• 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

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.

• 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
• 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 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.

Successful applicants will be required to complete criminal history, medical, drug and alcohol, and other pre-employment checks.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive workforce.

Applications close: Monday 16th November unless filled sooner