Regional Rail Operator Level 7

You’ll connect Queensland, we’ll connect you to an amazing career!

Queensland Rail stands on the foundation of true connection, encompassing the relationships we foster within our teams and the communities we serve across the state. For over 150 years, we've been instrumental in linking people and places, and now we invite you to contribute to our proud legacy and shape a brighter, sustainable future.

Your opportunity
We have a permamnent full time opportunity for a Regional Rail Operator to join our Cairns team. Regional Rail Operators are responsible for safely moving trains in yards and platforms. They are responsible for marshalling trains by attaching and detaching rail vehicles, direct trains, and operating points and signalling equipment. 

Your journey will begin with an intensive three-month training program, combining classroom learning and hands-on experience within our rail yard.  You'll develop the crucial skills by undertaking theoretical and practical training to develop the skills required to competently undertake shunting movements within a large shunting yard to ensure safe and efficient work. Please note that annual leave is unavailable during this initial training period.

The training will provide you the knowledge and support to:

• actively participate in the safe and timely marshalling and shunting of trains, adhering to Queensland Rail's strict operational standards (under the guidance of experienced colleagues)
• learn to interpret our different types of trains and the detailed information associated with them and contribute to the timely dispatch of trains ensuring excellent customer service.
• develop a thorough understanding of point operation (setting, securing, inspection and safety) within the rail yard.

We are seeking to connect with someone who ideally:

• has a strong commitment to safe working practices.
• demonstrates professionalism, reliability and motivation.

• is comfortable working in various weather conditions including hot temperatures.
• works effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• has good time management skills to meet timetable and maintenance requirements during peak hours.
• clearly communicates both written and verbally
• has strong organisational and prioritisation abilities

For detailed responsibilities, please view the Position Description.

Benefits that Count 

All that Queensland Rail achieves each day relies on the hard work and talent of our teams. That’s why we offer a range of attractive benefits designed to help you bring your best.  

• Full time base annual salary of $90, 000 + 12.75% Super + penalty rates or overtime allowances.
• Certificate II in Shunting on completion of the training school.
• All PPE and uniforms supplied.
• Opportunities for career progression.
• You and your family can get fit and have fun with access to over 380 gyms and pools with our Fitness Passport.

 And more! For a full list please visit Employee Benefits 

Roster/Hours

• 24/7 shift work including day and night shifts.

• Shifts will vary within the operational hours of 0630 to 2000.
• Required to work every second weekend and some public holidays.
• You may be required to drive to Kuranda or Cardwell to pick up crew and return back to Cairns.

Supporting a Diverse Workforce

Queensland Rail acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Elders of the lands and waterways our network traverses.

Our teams are People who Count. We encourage diversity in our teams, including different genders, age, race, disability status, sexual orientation, religions, neurodiversity, education levels and many more aspects. No two journeys are the same, and it’s because of our differences that as a collective, we achieve great things.
 
Please advise if you would like to discuss reasonable adjustments in the recruitment process.

Your journey matters. Make it with us. 
There’s never been a more exciting time to join Queensland Rail. If you're ready to make a real impact and help shape our future, we encourage you to submit your resume and cover letter by 11:59 PM (AEST) on 20th August 2025.

To learn more about this opportunity please contact  Jelena.Nikolovski@qr.com.au  with your specific enquiry.