Hi-Rail Operator

5 days ago

Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Isaac Group Full time NZ$40,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

About the Hi-rail Operator Role:

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Hi-rail Operator to join our team based in Christchurch. In this role, you will be responsible for the operation of hi-rail vehicles for the maintenance, inspection, and transport of materials on rail networks covering a large area of the South Island from Ashburton up to Picton and across both the East & West Coast. This is a hands-on opportunity for someone who is dedicated to operational safety and enjoys working in an ever-changing outdoor environment.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Operate hi-rail vehicles and equipment safely along railway lines, adhering to all safety protocols and site regulations.
  • Carry out routine inspection, maintenance, and minor repairs of hi-rail vehicles to ensure operational reliability and compliance.
  • Transport personnel, materials, and equipment to various rail work locations.
  • Complete accurate documentation of vehicle use, safety checks, and maintenance activities.
  • Communicate proactively with rail operations teams to ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
  • Respond promptly to operational changes or emergencies as required.
  • Champion a strong health, safety, and environmental culture in line with company and industry standards.

Required Skills:

  • Extensive experience operating Hi-Rail Machines.
  • Full New Zealand driving licence (Class 2 minimum, Class 4 or 5 highly desirable).
  • Proven experience in operating heavy vehicles, plant, or machinery—rail or construction industry experience an advantage.
  • Solid understanding of rail industry safety practices, or a demonstrated commitment to learning.
  • Strong communication skills and a customer-focused mindset.
  • Physically fit, able to work outdoors and in a variety of weather conditions.
  • Eligibility to work in New Zealand.

What We Offer Our Hi-rail Operators

  • Permanent Employment: Guaranteed minimum 40 hours per week.
  • Attractive Remuneration: Competitive salary package aligned to experience.
  • Safety and Skills Development: Access to ongoing training.
  • Health & Wellbeing: Medical insurance to support your health and peace of mind.
  • Supportive Workplace Culture: Join a team committed to inclusion, development, and safety.

How to Apply for the Hi-rail Operator Position

If you are passionate about working safely, possess a strong work ethic, and are eager to contribute to vital rail infrastructure projects, we encourage you to apply.

Contact Sara Swailes at for a confidential discussion or click 'Apply Now' to submit your application.

Additional Information – Hi-rail Operator Recruitment Process

All prospective team members must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. The successful applicant will be required to undergo a pre-employment medical assessment, including drug and alcohol screening, as part of our safety-first culture.

Note to Recruitment Agencies: Please do not submit unsolicited applications for this position.

Bring your expertise, safety commitment, and passion for the rail industry—apply now and become part of our team

  • Mechanical Engineer

    3 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand KiwiRail Full time NZ$37 - NZ$43

    Position based at Waltham, Christchurch (1 Position Available)  Permanent, Full-time Position, 24/7 Rotating Roster (Including Penal Rates) Starting hourly rate between $ $43.30 (Based on Qualifications & Experience) Position Description He kōrero mō mātou | About us: KiwiRail has been connecting New Zealanders for more than 150 years. Our vision,...

  • Catering and Luggage Coordinator

    3 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand KiwiRail Full time NZ$60,000 - NZ$90,000 per year

    Keep New Zealand on track in a service and safety critical environmentCatering and Luggage CoordinatorLocation, ChristchurchFixed term, part-time 20hrs per week roleFull rotating roster Monday to Sunday, 4-6 hours per day, 4am startPosition DescriptionHe kōrero mō mātou | About usAt KiwiRail, we're proud to connect people and places across Aotearoa in a...

  • Catering and Luggage Coordinator

    3 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand KiwiRail Full time NZ$45,000 - NZ$65,000 per year

    Keep New Zealand on track in a service and safety critical environmentCatering and Luggage CoordinatorLocation, ChristchurchFixed term, part-time 20hrs per week roleFull rotating roster Monday to Sunday, 4-6 hours per day, 4am startHe kōrero mō mātou | About usAt KiwiRail, we're proud to connect people and places across Aotearoa in a safe, sustainable...

  • Supermarket store managers

    1 day ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Sindorf Marsh Pty Ltd Full time NZ$60,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    Are you living in or looking to relocate to Queensland?SPAR Australia  is a prominent supermarket distributor within the retail / FMCG industry located in Queensland. They are a supplier to and owner of independent supermarket operators in Australia and they operate a large distribution centre. They supply to around 300 independent retail stores...

  • Systems Administrator

    5 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Jade Software Full time NZ$50,000 - NZ$80,000 per year

    Systems Administrator – Entry Level RoleEntry level, full-time position at a Hi-Tech innovative businessChristchurch based with a fun team, the beating heart of Jade SoftwareFirst rate benefits including health insurance for you and your immediate family, life & income protection, broadband allowance and moreRotating 24/7 roster with recovery weeks ABOUT...

  • Senior/Intermediate Service Engineer

    5 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand FABRUM. Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    About FabrumFabrum has built a reputation of pioneering world-first technologies in cryogenics and hydrogen solutions, fueled by our exceptional R&D capabilities. Fabrum completed its Series A capital raise in 2023, attracting $23M in investment from high profile global investors. Now, we're leveraging that innovative passion to take our solutions to the...

  • Service Lead

    5 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand FABRUM. Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    About FabrumFabrum has built a reputation of pioneering world-first technologies in cryogenics and hydrogen solutions, fueled by our exceptional R&D capabilities. Fabrum completed its Series A capital raise in 2023, attracting $23M in investment from high profile global investors. Now, we're leveraging that innovative passion to take our solutions to the...

  • Civil Engineer

    5 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Beca Full time NZ$90,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    Te whiwhinga mahi | The opportunityOur Transport and Infrastructure work is central to our business. We develop and implement solutions to complex problems, shaping the Asia Pacific region from highways to ports, bridges to tunnels, airports to rail, three waters and site development. We are passionate about our work and culture. Diversity enhances our...

  • Senior Electrical Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

    3 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Jacobs Full time NZ$90,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.Your impactAt Jacobs, we have...

  • Nurse Practitioner Lead

    3 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Pegasus Health Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    Bridge clinical excellence with cultural safety and equityChampion quality, innovation, and workforce growthShape the next generation of Nurse Practitioners through leadership and mentorship across healthcareLead, mentor, and support Nurse Practitioner trainees to deliver equitable, high-quality care across Aotearoa.About Us:We're passionate about supporting...