Mechanical Engineer

2 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, Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mō Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand), drives us to deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable transport solutions that benefit our people, our communities, and our environment.


Teamwork, collaboration, and innovation sit at the heart of what we do. By modernising our rail network and investing in new technology, we're building an exciting future and you can be part of it.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

Based at our Waltham Depot in Christchurch, you'll play a vital role in maintaining and repairing KiwiRail's passenger fleet. Ensuring our trains are safe, reliable, and ready to roll.


Whether you're completing routine maintenance or responding to an urgent repair, your work will help keep passenger services moving across Aotearoa.

This is a permanent, full-time role on a 24/7 rotating roster (including penal rates).
Starting hourly rate: $37.33 – $43.30, depending on your qualifications and experience.

In this role, you will:

  • Conduct scheduled maintenance and mechanical repairs

  • Identify and diagnose faults, and work collaboratively to resolve them

  • Perform safety checks and assist operators with equipment

  • Maintain clear service records and follow all safety procedures

  • Support yard operations, including operation of rail vehicles

Ngā pūkenga e rapu nei mātou | What you will bring

You'll be mechanically minded, safety focused, and a strong team player who takes pride in quality work.


You will bring:

  • Experience in heavy industry or automotive/mechanical engineering

  • NZQA Level 4–5 trade certificate in mechanical fitting or a related field

  • A strong focus on safety, problem solving, and continuous improvement

  • Good communication

  • A Full Class 1 Driver Licence

  • Relevant trade qualifications or certifications relating to the industry

It's a bonus if you also have:

  • Diesel or automotive mechanic experience

  • Automotive electrical experience

  • F endorsement on your driver licence

  • Gantry crane unit standards (US 30072 and 3800)

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you:

At KiwiRail, you'll find more than a job, you'll find purpose.

We offer:

  • Competitive hourly rates and penal pay

  • Ongoing training and career development opportunities

  • Pathways for progression across a national network

  • Support to gain further qualifications and certifications

  • Southern Cross health insurance and wellbeing support

  • Travel discounts on Scenic trains and Interislander ferries

  • All PPE and required training provided

Kua rite, kia rite | Ready to make a difference?

If you're ready to bring your mechanical skills to a team that keeps New Zealand connected, we'd love to hear from you. 

Rā aukati | Applications close: 7 November 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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