Metro Protection Operations Manager - Auckland

Metro Protection Operations ManagerKeep Auckland's rail network safe and moving forwardPosition Description2-year fixed-term, full-time opportunityBased at our Southdown office in Onehunga, AucklandPrimarily office-based, with flexibility to align your hours with 24 / 7 operationsIncludes periodic field work across 24 / 7 shifts, including some weekends and public holidays, to support crews and engage with stakeholders on-siteHe korero mo matou | About usAt KiwiRail, we connect people, goods, and communities across Aotearoa.

For more than 150 years, rail has been at the heart of New Zealand's transport network.

Our purpose - Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand - drives us to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable services.We're a team of over 4,500 people working together with integrity, care, and commitment.

Safety is our top priority, and we're proud of the role we play in keeping New Zealand moving.What is 'Protection' at KiwiRail?

In rail, "Protection" means putting measures in place to keep workers safe while they are on or near the tracks.

In a busy metro environment like Auckland, this means coordinating carefully planned safety controls so rail projects can happen with minimal disruption to passenger and freight services.He whakamarama mo te turanga mahi | About the roleAs Metro Protection Operations Manager, you'll lead the 24 / 7 operations of our Metro Protection team and services in Auckland, that keep our people safe while trains continue to run in Auckland's busy metro network.This is a key leadership role that blends operational management with people-focused leadership.

It's ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-moving, complex environment and can balance immediate operational demands of a metro rail system with longer-term improvements.You'll be responsible for : Leading people – managing six team leaders and a wider workforce of about 40, supporting their growth, and building a high-performing, safety-first cultureManaging operations – coordinating protection services across a 24 / 7 metro network, balancing worker safety with the need to keep trains movingDelivering safety leadership – ensuring robust safety controls are in place for work on or near tracks, learning from incidents, and driving continuous improvementCorporate stewardship – taking responsibility for people, budgets, and assets, and ensuring resources are used effectively to deliver safe, efficient outcomes.Nga pukenga e rapu nei matou | What you will bringWe're looking for a safety-focused and collaborative leader with strong operational experience.

Ideally, you'll bring : 3–5+ years' experience in rail, transport, or infrastructure managementBe able to evidence effective corporate stewardship of personnel, budgets and assetsProven leadership of frontline managers and large operational teamsStrong knowledge of rail protection, safety, risk, and complianceThe ability to build trusted relationships and support culture changeA full NZ driver licence and the ability to pass drug and alcohol screeningIt's also an advantage if you hold rail certifications or relevant tertiary study – read position description at the top of the advert to know moreNou te rourou | What's in it for youCompetitive salary and benefitsCareer development and leadership trainingOpportunities to shape safety in Auckland's metro networkA supportive team culture with shared valuesTravel privileges on scenic trains and InterislanderEnhanced Parental leave policyLocal gym, pool and leisure centre discountsAccess to NZR welfare holiday homes across NZ & Australia, and receive refunds for you and your whanau's day-to-day healthcareKua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you're ready to lead with safety, care, and collaboration, we'd love to hear from you.Me pehea te tuku tono | How to ApplyApply online with your CV and cover letter.

If you are a current KiwiRail employee, please apply using your internal profile and KiwiRail email address.Please note : all successful candidates must undergo and pass a pre-employment drug screen, criminal conviction and AML verification checks.

Applicants must hold New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency.Ra aukati | Applications CloseApplications close on Thursday 25th September, unless filled sooner.

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