Plant Fitter Operator

Overview

Plant Fitter Operator – Position based in Palmerston North at your local depot; Full-time, permanent 80 Hours per Fortnight, 10 days on, 4 days off (Tuesday – Thursday); Seeking a trades qualified person.

About us

KiwiRail has been connecting New Zealanders for over 150 years.

Our vision, Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand), drives us to create sustainable, efficient transport solutions that benefit our people, communities, and environment.

Teamwork, Collaboration, Safety, & Innovation are at the heart of what we do.

By modernising rail and ferry services, KiwiRail is building an exciting future, and you can be part of it.

About the role

As a Plant Fitter Operator, based in Palmerston North as your local depot you'll join The Ballast Cleaner group and relieve on other Track Machines as required operating specialised machinery that maintains our rail network.

You'll assist in the safe and efficient use of Track Machines and perform servicing maintence and repairs.

This role involves continuous travel across the network and working in all conditions to ensure quality, safety, and performance standards are always met.

You'll be part of a team that values reliability, communication, and doing the job right the first time.

What you will bring

We're looking for someone who enjoys practical work, is committed to safety, and thrives in a happy team environment.

You'll need

Experience working in physical, outdoor roles—rain or shine

A strong commitment to health and safety

Willingness to learn and complete on-the-job training

Ability to travel extensively and stay away from home as needed

A full, clean Class 1 driver licence

A trade certificate or National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering

It's a bonus if you also have

Class 2 driver licence and computer literacy

Experience operating or servicing Track Machines / Heavy Machinery

Experience with plant maintenance, hydraulics, pneumatics, or auto-electrics.

What's in it for you

Competitive pay and allowances

Full training provided—no prior rail experience required

Opportunities to upskill and build a long-term career in a critical industry

Travel across beautiful parts of Aotearoa as part of your job

Be part of a team that values respect, teamwork, and Zero Harm

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're practical, safety-focused, and ready to get stuck in, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help keep our rail network strong for future generations.

KiwiRail is committed to diversity and inclusion.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and communities.

All aboard for a rewarding career with KiwiRail!

How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter online.

If you're a current KiwiRail employee, please apply using your internal profile.

Ra aukati | Applications close : 28th September 2025 (unless filled sooner)

Please Note, all successful candidates must undergo and pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen.

Due to the nature of this role, we require successful candidates to hold a NZ residence or citizenship.

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