Title:  Trainee Traction Line Mechanic

Trainee Traction Line Mechanic

Position Description

• Day-to-day operational duties of Overhead Traction systems
• Varied, busy role
• Permanent, Wellington based

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

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 a member of the Traction team you will be responsible for the provision of effective, reliable and efficient day to day operations of all Overhead Traction systems and associated equipment. This will include the maintenance, installation, restoration and repair of Traction components including poles, isolators, insulators and overhead wiring.

Key accountabilities include:

• Carry out maintenance, repairs, installation and restoration to all areas of the Overhead Traction system on the rail network
• Use and maintain Traction Overhead test and measuring equipment
• Use and maintain hand and power tools for electrical work
• Operate and maintain maintenance facilities, vehicles and tools in a safe and professional manner.
• Complete records, reports and documentation as appropriate and when required
• Be prepared to work at heights as a core activity.
• Contribute to team decisions and Tool Box Meetings
• Maintain a customer service focus and display professional behaviour when dealing with associated client personnel, sub-contractors and members of the public.
• Ensure you clearly document your work activities and established files are clearly identified and filed correctly 
• Such other duties and responsibilities as the Company may require from time to time.
• Responsible for complying with all rail safety system standards, procedures and statutory requirements within your area of responsibility
• Responsible for your own safety and that of other rail employees, contractors and visitors within your work environment
• Responsible for the identification, reporting and initial control of any safety or environmental hazard identified within your area to your immediate manager
• Adhere to KiwiRail’s health and safety requirements and take responsible for maintaining a proactive approach regarding both personal wellbeing as well as that of fellow employees, associated client personnel, sub-contractors and members of the public.
• Report all accidents and incidents to your immediate supervisor within one hour.

• Under general supervision in a team environment, perform tasks and maintenance associated with the efficient operation of the traction infrastructure including but not limited to:

• Operate light lifting and rigging equipment in the electrical supply environment
• Identify electricity systems in preparation for work
• Climb and work on Traction structures
• Perform electrical safety observation duties in a Traction environment
• Participate in groups and or teams to gather ideas and information

• Operate a 4WD vehicle in off-road situations
• Under general supervision in a team environment, perform tasks and maintenance associated with the efficient operation of the traction infrastructure including but not limited to:

• Operate power-operated elevating work platforms (EWP) in an electrical supply environment.
• Rig electrical network structures
• Apply earths to and remove earths from overhead line conductors
• Measure tress and lines for vegetation control around electrical lines to maintain appropriate safe clearances
• Prune trees around electrical lines too close to the lines
• Inspect test and clean specialised live line tools used on the 1600 volt DC Traction system
• Maintain reports, drawings, codes and associated documents in preparation for auditing
• Measure and adjust traction overhead clearances
• Measure and adjust traction height and stagger
• Replace insulators
• Participate in groups and or teams to make decisions

• Under general supervision in a team environment, perform tasks and maintenance associated with the efficient operation of the traction infrastructure including but not limited to:

• Develop work plans for construction and servicing of overhead electrical lines and equipment
• Determine the condition of electrical lines
• Install and replace electricity network pole structures
• Overhaul transmission pole and tower hardware
• Restore network lines using emergency structures
• Carry out fault patrol on an electricity supply network
• Dismantle electricity network lines and structures
• Mark out curve transitions
• Operate specialised vehicles and machinery as and when required
• Carry out bonding duties as required to maintain the negative return system
• Hold the current and correct licence and have the skills to operate heavy trade vehicles
• Undertake both On the Job Training and set training courses provided by the company.
• Understand codes, standards and procedures for rail infrastructure electrical work.
• Become competent in all compulsory On the Job Trainings for Level 1 to 3.
• Successfully complete Trainee Traction Line Mechanic course for level 1 to 3.

Ngā pukenga e rapu nei mātou | What (skills) you will bring:

• Successfully completed all OJT for a Trainee Traction Lines Mechanic
• Successfully completed appropriate licences to operate
• Successfully completed pole top rescue training
• Have good knowledge of relevant Traction Overhead equipment
• NCEA Level 1 or equivalent
• EST A or B qualification
• A current Class 1 driver’s licence
• Current first aid and CPR certificates

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

• Access to join NZ Rail Staff Welfare Trust where you will enjoy a range of benefits including access to holiday homes across New Zealand, as well as support for optometry, physiotherapy, GP services and prescription costs
• A wide range of discounts at retailers and on scenic trains and Interislander
• Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace dedicated to innovation, sustainability and community impact

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

Rā aukati | Applications close:  6 April 2026