Title:  Container Terminal Trainee

Container Terminal Trainee

• Based at our Auckland Container Terminal
• $30.42 per hour starting rate, increasing as you progress through training
• Permanent full-time opportunity working a rotating 24/7 shift roster

He kōrero mō mātou | About us

At KiwiRail, we're proud to connect New Zealand by moving people and freight safely, efficiently, and sustainably. Our Auckland Container Terminal plays a critical role in keeping New Zealand's supply chain moving, connecting freight across our rail and road networks.

When you join KiwiRail, you're joining a team that values safety, teamwork, and continuous development. We invest in our people and provide genuine opportunities to build a long-term career.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role

We're looking for 8 Trainees to join our Auckland Container Terminal team.

This is a hands-on opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining the skills, licences, and experience needed to become a qualified Container Terminal Operator. Working in a fast-paced operational environment, you'll learn how freight moves safely and efficiently through one of New Zealand's busiest freight networks.

You will:

• Assist with loading, unloading, and moving containers around the terminal
• Carry out operational checks on containers, wagons, vehicles, and equipment to ensure twist locks and pins are in place, freight is contained, and setups completed 
• Use computer systems and handheld technology to track container movements
• Work alongside team members, truck drivers, and customers to keep freight moving safely and on schedule
• Gain experience across terminal operations, including container handling, equipment operation, and gatehouse activities
• Learn to operate specialised container handling equipment and machinery through structured training and certification

Ngā pūkenga e rapu nei mātou | What you'll bring

You don't need direct container terminal experience. We're looking for people who are reliable, safety-focused, customer-minded, and motivated to learn.

You'll ideally have:

• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Basic computer literacy, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Confidence learning new systems and technology
• The ability to work a rotating shift roster, including weekends and public holidays
• A Full New Zealand Driver Licence and safe driving record
• A Class 2 licence and/or F endorsement (advantageous)
• Experience in logistics, warehousing, transport, freight, construction, manufacturing, heavy industry, or machinery operation (advantageous)

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

• Time and a half on Saturdays and double time on Sundays
• Additional penal rates for qualifying night shifts
• Structured pay progression as you complete training milestones
• Full training, licensing, and development support
• 4 weeks annual leave
• PPE and uniforms provided
• Long-term career opportunities across KiwiRail

Important Notice

Successful applicants will be required to complete criminal history, medical, drug and alcohol, and other pre-employment checks.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive workforce.

Applications close: Tuesday 3rd November unless filled sooner