Locomotive Driver Assistant - New to Industry - Gunnedah, NSW

Location: Gunnedah, QLD
Expected start: From October 2026
Employment type: Casual blank line
Roster: Shifts offered based on your availability and operational needs

Start Your Career in Rail

Trojan Rail is looking for reliable and safety focused people who want to start a career as a Locomotive Driver Assistant.

No previous rail experience is required.

Successful applicants will complete paid training, workplace observation and supervised shifts before completing client training and Verification of Competency.

What We Offer

• Paid classroom and practical training
• Training costs covered by Trojan Rail
• Nationally recognised training delivered by Challenger Training Pty Ltd, RTO 91830
• Workplace mentoring and support
• A pathway to qualified Locomotive Driver Assistant work
• Opportunities to work with a leading Australian rail provider

Pay Rates

• Classroom training: $32.18 per hour plus superannuation
• Workplace observation and supervised training shifts: $44.90 per hour plus superannuation
• Qualified Driver Assistant work: rates may exceed $70 per hour, including applicable penalties

Hours are not guaranteed.

About the Role

You will complete seven weeks of training in Newcastle, with accommodation and a meal allowance provided throughout the training period.

Once you have successfully completed the training and been assessed as competent, you will return to Gunnedah to undertake the role. You will work alongside a qualified Locomotive Driver to support the safe and efficient operation of freight trains.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting with train preparation and safety checks
• Supporting shunting and yard operations
• Communicating clearly with train crew and operational personnel
• Following safeworking rules, procedures and instructions
• Completing required operational records
• Working safely around locomotives, wagons and rail infrastructure

Roster and Availability

This is a casual blank line position. There is no fixed roster, and this is not a Monday to Friday job.

You will provide your availability and may be offered shifts when work is available.

Shifts may include:

• Days
• Nights
• Weekends
• Public holidays
• Short notice work
• Different start and finish times

The amount of work offered will depend on your availability, operational requirements and client demand.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for people who:

• Put safety first
• Are reliable and punctual
• Are willing to learn
• Can follow instructions and procedures
• Communicate clearly
• Can work in a small team
• Can remain alert during night and extended shifts
• Are comfortable using computers and digital devices

Essential Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold Australian working rights
• Hold a current unrestricted Australian Class C driver licence or higher
• Have reliable transport
• Be available for the full training program
• Obtain satisfactory clearance from a Category 1 Rail Safety Worker medical
• Obtain satisfactory clearance from a National Police Check
• Be able to participate in ongoing drug and alcohol testing
• Hold HLTAID011 Provide First Aid, or be willing to obtain it prior to training
• Have basic computer, literacy and numeracy skills
• Meet all Trojan Rail, client and Rail Industry Worker compliance requirements

Important Information

You must successfully complete all training, assessments, clearances, client requirements and Verification of Competency before progressing to qualified work.

About Trojan Rail

Trojan Rail provides skilled workers and workforce solutions to the Australian rail industry.

We support freight rail operations, yards, terminals and rail infrastructure environments across Australia.

How to Apply

Click APPLY and submit your résumé.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to complete a pre-screening process, which may include a phone screening, interview and meet and greet.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.