Title:  Trainee Locomotive Engineer - Kawerau

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

Position Description: Trainee Locomotive Engineer

• Located in: Kawerau
• Starting: February 2026 - mutiple vacancies available
• Great career opportunities in a strong growth industry 
• Our starting rate is $29.68, which increases to $51.23 on achieving LE qualification

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 Class 1 Driver's Licence
• You'll need to 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
• Working nights, weekends, and public holidays over a 24/7 pre-planned roster
• Being able to adapt to a changing environment within a safety critical setting
• The ability 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 
• Comprehensive training provided, with ongoing development and licence recertification
• Gain access to NZR welfare holiday homes and receive refunds 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
• In-depth pre-employment checks
• Formal job offer

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you’re ready to bring your skills to a role that supports New Zealand’s freight network, we’d love to hear from you. We encourage applications from people of all ages, genders, abilities, backgrounds, and communities.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply

• Apply with your CV
• Be a New Zealand or Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident

Rā aukati | Applications close

Applications close on Thursday 13th November, unless filled sooner.

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