Trainee Track Worker

Kiwi Rail; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 35,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive training

Career progression opportunities

Inclusive team culture

Job summary

KiwiRail in Dunedin is seeking a Trainee Track Worker to join our maintenance team. The role is outdoor, physically active, and involves working on tracks with on-the-job and classroom training, plus travel up to 10 days as required.

The position starts late January 2027 and pays a starting hourly rate of 30.42 NZD plus penalties where applicable. You will help carry out maintenance, repairs and upgrades, learn skills on the job, and develop safety practices to support a reliable rail network

Qualifications

• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence or Restricted is essential.
• Willingness to travel or stay overnight when required.
• Pre-employment medical and drug screening may be required.

Responsibilities

• Carry out maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to rail tracks.
• Receive on-the-job training and attend classroom sessions to build skills.
• Operate tools and minor equipment under supervision as you progress.
• Work 40 hours per week on a rotational roster, including weekends.
• Champion safety by promoting safe work practices and raising concerns.

Skills

Teamwork

Strong communication

Physically fit

Willing to travel

Safety conscious

Education

NCEA Level 1 Maths & English desirable

Job description

Trainee Track Worker – Dunedin

• Start late January 2027
• Career growth opportunity
• Starting hourly rate $30.42 + penal rates where applicable

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, our mission is to connect New Zealanders in a sustainable, reliable, and innovative way. Our rail network supports communities and businesses across the country, making a real difference in people’s lives. As part of our team, you’ll experience a warm, inclusive environment where collaboration and safety are our top priorities. Join us as we work together to build a better, more connected New Zealand.

He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:

As a Trainee Track Worker, you’ll be an essential part of our maintenance team, ensuring our rail infrastructure remains safe and reliable. You'll be responsible for:

• Work collaboratively to carry out maintenance, repairs, and upgrades to our rail tracks.
• Receive on-the-job training and attend classroom sessions to build the skills you need to succeed.
• Operate tools and minor equipment under supervision, gaining competency as you progress.
• This is an outdoor role, you will need to be physically fit, willing to work in all weather conditions and not be afraid to get your hands dirty.
• Hours of work will be 40 per week, Monday to Sunday on a rotational roster.
• Work away for up to 10 days and extensive travel is required.
• Champion Zero Harm by promoting and practicing safety at all times, including raising concerns and offering solutions.

Your work will directly support KiwiRail’s mission to connect New Zealand, making every journey safer and smoother.

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

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Eager to learn and upskill, with a strong commitment to teamwork.
• A solid level of verbal and written communication skills.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Flexible and able to travel or stay overnight when required.
• Safety-conscious and proactive in identifying and addressing potential risks.
• A holder of a clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence or Restricted is essential.

While NCEA Level 1 Maths and English (or equivalent) is desirable, we’re more interested in your willingness to grow, learn and contribute.

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you:

At KiwiRail, we offer:

• Competitive pay and comprehensive training to set you up for success.
• Opportunities for career progression within an essential and growing industry.
• A strong, inclusive team culture that values diversity and collaboration.
• The chance to make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand’s transport infrastructure.

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

If you’re ready to take on a rewarding challenge and build a career that truly matters, we want to hear from you.

KiwiRail is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities. All successful candidates will undergo pre-employment medical and drug screening. NZ residency or citizenship is required.

Rā aukati | Application Close:

22nd November 2026 unless filled sooner