Title: Operational Safety Advisor | Wellington
- Be the frontline safety expert keeping rail operations compliant, safe, and running smoothly nationwide
- Coach, train, and influence teams and contractors through safety observations and rules revalidation
- Permanent Wellington based role
At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being. Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard.
He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:
As an Operational Safety Advisor, you will play a critical role in supporting Protection compliance across KiwiRail. You’ll provide expert advice, training, and guidance to rail corridor users on track safety rules, ensuring safety‑critical protection competencies are maintained and consistently applied nationwide.
This is a field‑focused role where you’ll work closely with operational leaders, frontline teams, and contractors, promoting a culture of safe, high‑performance operations and visible safety leadership.
Your day‑to‑day work may include:
- Delivering Safety Observations, Verifications of Competency, and Rules Revalidation activities
- Providing advice and coaching to managers, staff, and contractors on safe working practices
- Participating in audits, investigations, and post‑incident reviews to improve safety outcomes
- Supporting the development and delivery of safety observation and rules revalidation programmes
- Championing safety leadership and promoting KiwiRail’s Life Saving Rules
- Supporting consistent application of operational rules and protection standards nationwide
Safety is at the heart of everything we do. You’ll be a visible safety leader — influencing behaviour, encouraging incident and near‑miss reporting, and helping ensure everyone goes home safe and well.
Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring:
We’re looking for an experienced rail safety professional who can confidently operate in operational environments and influence positive safety behaviours.
You will bring:
- Practical and theoretical knowledge of rail operations and track work protection
- Experience applying safe working procedures in a live operational environment
- Experience coaching, mentoring, and influencing individuals and small groups
- Experience delivering training and supporting audits or investigations
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships
- A proactive, detail‑focused approach with a strong commitment to continuous improvement
You’ll also have:
- A current and valid NZ Class 1 Driver’s Licence
- Flexibility to travel regionally and work various shifts, including nights and weekends
- The ability to pass regular medical, drug, and alcohol screening
- Relevant industry safety training and certifications
- A tertiary qualification in Health & Safety (or equivalent experience)
Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you:
When you join KiwiRail, you’re joining an organisation that puts safety first and invests in its people.
We offer:
- The opportunity to influence safety outcomes across New Zealand’s rail network
- Work that supports essential services and connects communities nationwide
- Competitive salary plus 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution
- Staff discount on southern cross medical insurance
- A wide range of discounts at retail partners
- Discounted staff travel
- Access to join the NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust, enjoying a range of benefits including access to holiday homes across New Zealand, and support for optometry, physiotherapy, GP services, and prescription costs.
- Professional development opportunities to help you grow and succeed
- Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and community impact
Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re passionate about rail safety, enjoy working in the field, and want to play a key role in lifting operational safety capability across KiwiRail, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and join us in building Stronger Connections for a Better New Zealand.
Rā aukati | Applications close: Sunday 3rd of May 2026
KiwiRail is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences — because together, we are stronger.