Title:  Trainee Telecommunications Technician

Keep New Zealand connected – start your career in rail communications with KiwiRail.

Trainee Telecommunications Technician

• Keep New Zealand on track – by providing effective & efficient operations of radio communication systems
• Permanent full-time role, based in Dunedin
• Support the optimum availability and performance of KiwiRail’s network

Position Description

He kōrero mō mātou | About us

At KiwiRail, we’re proud to connect people, businesses, and communities across Aotearoa in a safe and sustainable way. Our rail network plays a vital role in keeping New Zealand moving. We’re a team that values safety, collaboration, and innovation – and we’re looking for motivated people to join us as we shape the future of rail. 

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

As a Trainee Telecommunications Technician, you’ll learn how to support the operation of KiwiRail’s radio communications, transmission equipment, train control systems, and cable networks. This hands-on role will see you:

• Carry out maintenance and installation on VHF Repeater/Base station radio systems.
• Carry out networking and resolving networking issues on radio systems.
• Land mobile radio installs in vehicles.
• Radio programming on mobile radios and portables.
• Testing and maintenance of antennas and associated feeder/cabling systems.
• Installation and maintenance of microwave radio links.
• Installation and maintenance of UHF/VHF tunnel radio systems.
• Rigging on poles, masts and towers.
• Carry out installation and maintenance of DC systems at radio sites.
• Supporting radio systems such as Netsense, Aprisa Radio, Ciena Radios, Tait radios.
• Providing support for railway signalling telemetry (RTUs i.e. Kingfisher, GPT).
• Carry out some maintenance and installation of fibre and copper-based telecommunications systems.
• Working with experienced technicians to troubleshoot and test equipment.
• Gaining practical skills through on-the-job training and external courses.
• Supporting safe and efficient rail operations by following KiwiRail’s safety standards.

This is an excellent opportunity to build your technical career while contributing to the safe and reliable running of New Zealand’s rail network. 

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

We’re looking for someone who is eager to learn, committed to safety, and ready to work as part of a close-knit team. You’ll bring:

• Strong experience working on digital and analogue Radio based communications systems
• Experience in IP networking.
• Qualified in working from heights and rigging radio equipment
• A minimum of NCT Level 3 certification.
• EST A & B registration.
• A current, clean Class 1 driver licence.
• Computer literacy and good communication skills.
• The ability to work outdoors, and travel when required.
• A strong focus on safety and teamwork.

It would also be great if you have any of the following, but they’re not essential:

• Knowledge of rail infrastructure codes and standards.
• Electrical or radio-related qualifications. 

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you

 At KiwiRail, you’ll receive:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Full training and support to gain industry-recognised qualifications.
• Career development opportunities across our nationwide rail network.
• The chance to make a real difference by supporting safe, reliable rail services for New Zealand.

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

If you’re ready to start your telecommunications career and help keep New Zealand connected, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of a team that’s proud to keep Aotearoa moving.

KiwiRail is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and communities, and particularly encourage applications from groups currently under-represented in our workforce.

All aboard for a rewarding career with KiwiRail!

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter online. If you’re a current KiwiRail employee, please apply using your internal profile.

Rā aukati | Applications close: 16th November 2025 (unless filled sooner)