Trainee Track Worker

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive training

Career progression

Inclusive team culture

Contribute to NZ transport infra

Job summary

KiwiRail Freight in Dunedin is seeking a Trainee Track Worker to support maintenance, repairs and upgrades of our rail tracks. This outdoor role operates on a 40-hour week with a rotational roster and may involve travel of up to 10 days. You will gain hands-on training and attend classroom sessions to build essential skills.

Applicants should be physically fit, safety-conscious and possess a clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence or Restricted. NZ residency or eligibility is required.

Qualifications

• Willing to work outdoors in all weather and stay physically fit.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Clean NZ Class 1 driver’s licence is essential.
• Desirable readiness to travel or stay away when required.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, repair and upgrade rail tracks as part of the team.
• Receive on-the-job training and attend classroom sessions.
• Operate tools and minor equipment under supervision.
• Work outdoors on a 40-hour week, with a rotational roster and travel as needed.

Skills

Teamwork

Physical fitness

Safety-conscious

Willingness to travel

Education

NCEA Level 1 Maths and English

Tools

NZ Class 1 driver’s licence or Restricted

Job description

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

• Starting hourly rate $30.42 + penal rates where applicable

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.

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.

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.