About this role
Forge Your Career on the Tracks: Become a Trainee Suburban Rail Operator (Trainee Shunter) at Queensland Rail. At Queensland Rail, connection is at the heart of everything we do. For 160 years, we've connected Queensland communities by moving people safely and reliably across our rail network. Now, we're looking for motivated individuals to join our team and help shape the future of rail. We are seeking Trainee Suburban Rail Operators (Trainee Shunters) to join our team at Mayne Depot in Bowen Hills. As a Trainee Shunter, you'll embark on a structured training program that will equip you with the skills and confidence to safely manage train movements within one of Queensland's busiest rail environments, supporting the services that connect communities every day. Your opportunity Suburban Rail Operators (Shunters) play a critical role in the safe and efficient movement of trains within rail yards and platforms. They are responsible for marshalling trains, attaching and detaching rail vehicles, directing train movements, and operating points and signalling equipment. Your journey begins as a Trainee, with an intensive three-month training program that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience in our rail yards. Through a blend of theoretical and practical training, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to safely and competently undertake shunting operations within a large and complex rail environment. As a Shunter, you'll be part of a team that keeps South East Queensland's rail network moving safely and reliably, helping connect communities across the region. Please note that annual leave is unavailable during this initial training period. You will achieve this by Participating in comprehensive theoretical and practical training to become a qualified Shunter. Working alongside experienced team members, you'll learn to safely marshal and shunt trains while developing the practical skills and knowledge required to operate within Queensland Rail's rigorous safety and operational environment. Learn to interpret train consists, service requirements, and operational information to support the safe and efficient movement and dispatch of trains from the Mayne Yard Rail Complex. Develop the knowledge and practical skills required to safely inspect, set, secure, and operate points in support of rail yard operations. This role is for people who Available to work a 24/7 rotating roster, including day and night shifts, weekends, and public holidays, demonstrating flexibility, reliability, and commitment. Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and the consistent application of safe working practices in a rail operations environment. Can safely and effectively work outdoors in a range of environmental conditions, including prolonged periods of heat, humidity, and wet weather. Demonstrate strong teamwork and communication skills, while also being able to work independently and take responsibility for assigned tasks. Have strong time management skills and the ability to prioritise tasks to support train timetable commitments and maintenance requirements. Have strong communication, organisational, and prioritisation skills, with the ability to effectively manage multiple tasks and changing operational demands. Have access to reliable transport and hold a current driver's licence to support shift work, including early morning, evening, weekend, and public holiday shifts. This role offers Full time base annual salary, Super and penalty rates or overtime allowances. Certificate II in Shunting on completion of the training school. All PPE and uniforms supplied. For detailed responsibilities, please consult the Position Description. Benefits that Count All that Queensland Rail achieves each day relies on the hard work and talent of our teams. That’s why we offer a range of attractive benefits designed to help you bring your best. Enjoy free travel to work and discounted rail travel. Prioritise your physical, emotional and financial wellbeing with our range of free services. You and your family can get fit and have fun with access to over 380 gyms and pools with our Fitness Passport. Employee Assistance Program providing employees with holistic and contemporary health and wellbeing programs. Opportunities for career progression within the SEQ Yard team. Your journey matters. Make it with us. There has never been a more exciting time to join Queensland Rail. We offer boundless opportunities to support your career today and for your future. Apply for the Trainee Suburban Rail Operator (Shunter), REQ12057 via our website by clicking the apply button before 11:59pm Monday 21st September 2026. The recruitment and selection process for this position will require shortlisted applicants to undertake psychometric and health assessment checks including drug and alcohol screening.