Operational Readiness Project Manager - CRL Delivery

We are seeking an Operational Readiness Project Manager to lead operational change management activities in preparation for the introduction of the City Rail Link (CRL). Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working within the CRL Project team, you will act as the key liaison between project delivery teams and business-as-usual operations, ensuring readiness across all train operations functions. This is not your typical project management role as success depends on deep operational knowledge (preferably in rail or transportation) and a willingness to roll up your sleeves. You’ll work closely with operational teams and union (RMTU) to deliver practical, sustainable changes that make sense on the ground

This is a fixed term contract through to the end of June, 2026 and involves working across office and operational sites, with occasional early starts, late finishes, or weekend work to meet readiness milestones.

What you'll be doing:

• Work closely with operational teams and the RMTU to drive a smooth and successful timetable change.
• Lead the operational readiness plan, giving clear visibility and confidence in readiness at every stage.
• Shape and agree any necessary procedural updates, ensuring processes and documentation reflect the new way of operating.
• Coordinate logistics across crew locations, rolling stock allocation, berthing plans, and route updates to enable a seamless transition.
• Plan and deliver refresher training and competency updates so teams are fully prepared for Day 1.
• Ensure frontline teams receive clear, timely briefings and communications about what’s changing and why.
• Identify and manage readiness risks and issues, keeping the programme on track and stakeholders informed.
• Run readiness reviews and gates to confirm Train Operations is set up for a successful launch.
• Keep programme documentation, dashboards, and governance reporting up to date and of high quality.

• Operational experience in transport or rail - you’ve worked in roles that gave you insight into how services run, perhaps starting on the frontline and moving into leadership or planning.
• Change management experience - you can identify impacts, communicate clearly, and bring people on the journey.
• Stakeholder and Union engagement experience - you know how to collaborate and negotiate to achieve operational outcomes.
• Strong planning, problem-solving, with a focus on risk management

• Free Train Travel: Enjoy complimentary train travel on Auckland passenger trains. 
• Travel Discount: Nominate a person and up to 3 dependents for train travel discounts.
• NZ Railways Trust Membership: Benefit from discounted holiday accommodation and medical perks.