Title: Container Terminal Operator
- Located in Christchurch
- $29.68 per hour starting rate moving to $31.49 on completion of CTO 1 training
- Permanent full-time opportunity, Monday to Sunday - 24/7 rotating shift work
He kōrero mō mātou | About us:
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.
He whakamārama mo te tūranga mahi | About the role:
As a Container Terminal Operator, you’ll join a highly skilled team that play a vital role in keeping New Zealand’s freight network moving.
Training includes: Our commitment to helping you grow in your career. You’ll receive comprehensive initial and ongoing training designed to build your confidence, develop your technical skills and support your long-term progression with KiwiRail. This includes obtaining required licenses to operate our heavy equipment. You’ll be fully supported by experienced trainers and leaders. Once you’ve completed initial training, you’ll progress to Terminal Operator Grade 1.
Key role responsibilities include:
- Being hands-on in an outdoor environment, operating in all weather conditions
- Safety criticality – clear radio communication, teamwork and sound decision-making are essential
- Working closely with a small, supportive team, ensuring efficient movement of containers across the rail network
- Operating 8-tonne/32-tonne forklifts and 48-tonne container hoists (large machinery)
- Conduct checks on containers/wagons to ensure twist locks and pins are in place, freight is contained, and setup is complete
Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:
We’re looking for a motivated individual who is eager to learn and ready to build a long-term career with KiwiRail. You don’t need prior experience, what matters is a strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to keep developing new skills.
- Full NZ Drivers License and own transport
- Experience with physical labour where Health and Safety was at the core
- Strong safety focus and genuine care for the well-being of your team and yourself always
- Teamwork is second nature – strong written and verbal communication to build rapport with people from all walks of life
- An interest in the freight and logistics industry
- Basic computer skills
- Able to take instruction from team members and follow company policies and procedures
- Class 2 or forklift license is a bonus but not essential
- Physically fit and can work outdoors in all weather, pass a CAT2 medical (include drug and alcohol screening) and satisfactory ministry of justice check
Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:
- A competitive hourly rate + time and a half Saturdays and double time Sundays
- 5 weeks annual leave when working a rotating roster
- Extensive training and uniform provided
- Career progression opportunities
- Access to NZR Welfare’s refunds on day-to-day healthcare and holiday homes across NZ for you and your family
- Enjoy our Scenic trains and Interislander with discounted travel privileges
Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply online with your CV and cover letter.
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.