Senior Track Engineer

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

Position Description

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 were carrying that legacy forward as we modernise and grow our rail network and Interislander ferry services.

We are a team of more than 4500 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 youll provide technical expertise that helps keep KiwiRails track infrastructure safe reliable and fit for the future.

Youll support the management and improvement of track assets with a focus on track geometry rail condition maintenance renewals and asset lifecycle planning. Youll 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. Youll also contribute to engineering standards type approvals staff capability and Safety in Design processes.

Youll 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. Youll 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:

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

Youll 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.

Youll need a current and valid New Zealand drivers 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 Whats in it for you:

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

Youll have the opportunity to:

• Work on infrastructure that connects communities and supports New Zealands economy.
• Help improve the safety reliability and performance of KiwiRails 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 youre an experienced engineer who wants to help shape safe reliable and sustainable rail infrastructure wed 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 youre a current KiwiRail employee please apply using your internal profile.

Rā aukati Applications close:23 August 2026 (unless filled sooner)