Title:  Trainee Locomotive Engineer

A little insight into working for KiwiRail, check out what it's like to be a Locomotive Engineer (Train Driver) click here 

• Based in: Christchurch
• Start date: July 2026
• Pay: $30.42 per hour while training, progressing to $52.51 per hour once qualified

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About us

Everyday our Freight Locomotive Engineers (Train Drivers) move New Zealand's goods safely and efficiently throughout the country, removing over 1 million truck movements from our roads. If you want to join a great team driving our Freight Trains, then this is your opportunity.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

You will hold the overall responsibility for the safe operation of the locomotive, and the delivery of rail freight between terminals to meet our customer needs. Managing and operating the locomotive safely and efficiently to ensure operating procedures are followed at all times.

You'll inspect trains and perform examination tests to ensure all equipment and loads meet the requirements for the journey. As well as operational responsibilities you will manage all required documentation to ensure possession of correct work-orders, relevant bulletins and dangerous goods documentation are correct and up to date to reflect your journey.
 

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

• Full, clean NZ Class 1 Driver's Licence
• You'll be customer focused, comfortable with following robust rules and instructions as we operate to achieve a high safety policy and be able to retain detailed information to a high level
• Flexible to work nights, weekends, and public holidays over a 24/7 pre-planned roster
• Can adapt to a changing environment within a safety critical setting and is comfortable around large vehicles
• Able to meet industry medical standards, including drug testing and satisfactory security checks
• Computer skills and confidence with documentation is essential
• Clear and respectful communication, both independently and in a team

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you

• 5 weeks annual leave
• Supportive team environment
• An exceptional, end‑to‑end training programme that sets you up for success, with hands‑on learning, continuous development and license recertification
• Gain access to NZR welfare holiday homes and receive refunds for you and your family’s day-to-day healthcare
• Exclusive travel privileges on Interislander and Scenic trains

Recruitment Process

• Application
• Initial screening
• Psychometric testing
• Interview
• Pre-employment Checks
• Offer

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

• Apply online with your CV
• You must hold New Zealand or Australian citizenship, or Permanent Residency

Applications close: Friday 1st May unless filled sooner

Please note: all successful candidates must pass a pre-employment medical, drug screen and a criminal conviction check.