Operational Safety Advisor | South Island

• Be the frontline safety expert keeping rail operations compliant, safe, and running smoothly nationwide


• Coach, train, and influence teams and contractors through safety observations and rules revalidation


• Permanent, field‑based role with real impact on safety outcomes and strong career growth opportunities

Position Description

At KiwiRail, we connect New Zealanders sustainably, powering economic growth and ensuring vital freight and passenger services run smoothly. Our mission, "Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand," highlights our dedication to sustainability and community well-being.  Our people make KiwiRail exceptional. By fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace, we empower everyone to contribute their best. If you’re passionate about innovation and safety, we’d love to welcome you aboard.  If you've built your career working safely in and around the rail corridor and have a strong understanding of rail protection, operational safety, and KiwiRail's Rules and Procedures, we want to hear from you.

KiwiRail is seeking a highly capable Operational Safety Advisor (South Island) to support the safe delivery of work across our rail network. This is an exciting opportunity for experienced rail contractors, protection personnel, supervisors, trainers, and operational safety professionals who are passionate about safety leadership and helping others succeed in a high-risk environment.

He whakamārama mō te tūranga mahi | About the role:

As an Operational Safety Advisor, you will play a critical role in supporting safe work practices across KiwiRail's operational environment within Infrastructure. You will work closely with frontline teams, contractors, leaders, and stakeholders to promote compliance, strengthen safety culture, and provide practical operational safety advice.

This is a hands-on role that combines field engagement, coaching, auditing, investigation support, and continuous improvement activities to ensure work is carried out safely and in accordance with KiwiRail standards and legislative requirements.

What You'll Be Doing

• Providing expert advice and guidance on operational safety and rail corridor protection requirements


• Coaching and mentoring frontline workers, supervisors, and contractors to improve safety performance


• Supporting the delivery of operational safety training and competency development


• Conducting workplace observations, inspections, and audits


• Assisting with incident investigations and identifying opportunities for improvement


• Building strong relationships with operational teams and contractor partners


• Promoting a positive safety culture through visible leadership and engagement


• Supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the network

What We're Looking For

To be successful in this role, you'll bring a strong operational rail background and a demonstrated commitment to safe working practices.

Essential Experience and Competencies

• Strong understanding of KiwiRail Rules, Procedures, and rail corridor safety requirements


• Experience coaching, mentoring, and positively influencing individuals and small groups


• Experience delivering training and supporting audits or investigations


• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to build trusted relationships across diverse teams and contractor groups


• A proactive, detail-focused approach with a passion for continuous improvement


• Flexibility to travel regionally and work a variety of shifts, including nights and weekends when required


• The ability to successfully complete ongoing medical, drug, and alcohol screening requirements

Essential Qualifications preferred 

• Site Protector (902)


• Rail Protection Officer – Hi-Rail (RPO-H) (where applicable)


• Rail Protection Officer – Yards (RPO-Y) (where applicable)


• Track Protection Basic Machines (TPBM)


• Blocking & Track warrant

You'll Also Have operational knowledge in some or all of the following

• Rail Protection Officer (RPO) – Multi-Site Protector (RPO-M)


• Track Work Protection planning and implementation


• Lockout Zones


• Mis.60 Track and Time Permit processes


• Foul Time


• Corridor Access requirements


• Communication protocols with Train Control and Signallers


• A current and valid NZ Class 1 Driver's Licence (class 2 highly desirable)


• Relevant rail industry safety qualifications and certifications

Why Join KiwiRail?

At KiwiRail, safety is at the heart of everything we do. Our people work together to connect communities, move freight efficiently, and support New Zealand's economy.

As an Operational Safety Advisor, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Influence safety outcomes across one of New Zealand's most critical infrastructure networks


• Work alongside experienced rail professionals and industry leaders


• Further develop your operational and safety leadership capability


• Contribute to meaningful improvements that protect our people and our communities


• Be part of an organisation committed to continuous learning, innovation, and operational excellence

Ready to Apply?

If you're currently working within the rail industry, a rail contractor environment, or another high-risk operational setting and have the skills, qualifications, and experience to make a positive impact on safety performance, we'd love to hear from you.

Bring your rail expertise, safety leadership, and passion for continuous improvement to KiwiRail and help us keep New Zealand moving safely.

Apply now and take the next step in your rail safety career.

Rā aukati | Applications close: Monday 29th of June 2026

KiwiRail is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences — because together, we are stronger.