Job Description

• Location, Christchurch
• Competitive salary + great benefits
• Career progression opportunity

He kōrero mō mātou | About us:

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealand through sustainable rail and ferry transport. Our purpose, Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mō Aotearoa — Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand, reflects the connections we build with our customers, communities, and each other.

For more than 150 years, rail has connected communities, moved freight and passengers, and helped showcase Aotearoa. Today, we're carrying that legacy forward as we modernise and grow our rail network and Interislander ferry services.

We are a team of more than 4,500 people working together to support our customers, communities, and each other. Safety, health, and wellbeing are our number one priority, ensuring our people return home safe and healthy every day.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

As Senior Track Engineer, you'll provide technical expertise that helps keep KiwiRail's track infrastructure safe, reliable, and fit for the future.

You'll support the management and improvement of track assets, with a focus on track geometry, rail condition, maintenance, renewals, and asset lifecycle planning. You'll use assurance findings, risk assessments, and technical advice to support continuous improvement across our track network.

A key part of the role will be helping KiwiRail move towards more proactive asset management. You'll also contribute to engineering standards, type approvals, staff capability, and Safety in Design processes.

You'll work with engineering, operations, projects, learning and development teams, as well as consultants, contractors, suppliers, and relevant authorities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading improvements in the management of track geometry, rail condition, and related infrastructure assets.
• Supporting assurance activities and using findings to drive continuous improvement.
• Developing and revising engineering standards, specifications, and work instructions.
• Leading type-approval processes for new products and third-party infrastructure impacts.
• Supporting the development of the Track Competence Framework as a subject matter expert.
• Conducting risk assessments and contributing to Safety in Design processes.
• Providing technical advice for track maintenance, upgrades, and asset lifecycle planning.
• Supporting safe, compliant, and cost-effective engineering decisions.
• Sharing technical knowledge and contributing to capability development across the wider team.

Safety will guide your decisions. You'll identify and manage engineering risks while supporting compliance with rail safety standards and statutory requirements.

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

We're looking for an experienced engineering professional who can provide sound technical advice and work collaboratively across KiwiRail.

You'll bring:

• 8+ years' experience in civil or railway engineering environments.
• Experience in asset management, track maintenance, and renewals.
• Knowledge of international railway engineering principles and standards.
• Familiarity with international standards, including AS, EN, and ISO.
• Experience with assurance processes and technical documentation.
• A tertiary qualification in a relevant engineering discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• A strong commitment to safety, integrity, and professional standards.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to sharing knowledge.
• The ability to adapt to changing priorities and remain calm under pressure.
• A commitment to continuous improvement and learning.

Experience in project management or contract management would be useful.

Chartered Engineer (Technologist) status, or progress towards it, is desirable. Postgraduate qualifications in engineering or asset management are also advantageous.

You'll need a current and valid New Zealand driver's licence, be willing to travel nationally, and be able to pass regular drug and alcohol screenings.

If you have a combination of the skills and experience above, we encourage you to consider applying.

Nōu te rourou | What’s in it for you:

This role gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of New Zealand's rail network.

You'll have the opportunity to:

• Work on infrastructure that connects communities and supports New Zealand's economy.
• Help improve the safety, reliability, and performance of KiwiRail's track assets.
• Influence engineering standards, processes, and ways of working.
• Work alongside experienced engineering and operational professionals.
• Support innovation and continuous improvement across track engineering.
• Share your expertise and contribute to the development of others.
• Build your career within a large organisation with opportunities to learn and grow.
• Help create stronger connections for New Zealand.

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

If you're an experienced engineer who wants to help shape safe, reliable, and sustainable rail infrastructure, we'd like to hear from you.

Bring your experience, technical knowledge, and commitment to continuous improvement to KiwiRail. Together, we can help build a stronger rail network for Aotearoa.

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: 23 August 2026 (unless filled sooner)