Job Description
Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role
- Principal Rail Safety Officer Rail Systems & Operations
- Provide expert advice and interpretation of railway operations
- Permanent role, based in Wellington or Auckland
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We're looking for a railway systems specialist to join our team in the role of Principal Rail Safety Officer, to deliver effective regulatory management through monitoring the compliance of rail license holders and rail participants. You will carry out the full range of regulatory functions to ensure NZTA is effective in delivering its regulatory responsibilities.
As our key rail systems and operations expert, you will:
- Provide expert advice and interpretation of rail systems and operations to support our investigators and safety assessors
- Monitor compliance of rail licence holders and participants to ensure we meet our regulatory responsibilities
- Help translate complex technical information into clear, actionable insights for non-technical colleagues and senior leaders
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders and contribute to a positive experience for all users of the land transport system
You will have the backing of a high performing, supportive team and will thrive in a fast-paced environment.
View the position description here.
We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $131,659 to $175,545 commensurate to skills and experience.
Ko koe tēnei | About you
To be successful in this role, you will be able to demonstrate the following knowledge and experience:
- Extensive practical experience and knowledge of railway systems and operations
- Significant regulatory compliance experience
- Practitioner level understanding of human factors in a safety critical industry
- Proven success in the building and maintenance of effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proven ability to lead and implement strategic initiatives designed to solve complex problems
Qualifications:
- Tertiary qualification or significant relevant experience in a railway operational environment; and
- Tertiary qualification or significant relevant experience in a regulatory compliance role
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.
Ko wai mātou | About us
As the lead regulator for land transport our purpose is to ensure that the system is safe, efficient, effective and operates in the public interest. Safety is a top priority for NZTA and we, as Te Rōpu Waeture (the Regulatory Services group), aim to improve safety and reduce the risk of harm by being a firm and fair real-world regulator applying principles of good practice grounded in Te Ao Maori - Whakapono (Integrity), Manaakitanga (Caring for people), Whanaungatanga (Relationships) and Kotahitanga (Unity). Being a real-world regulator means we take a system view that is focused on improving safety outcomes and reducing harm, we work to understand why people behave the way they do and are pragmatic in how we respond, we encourage and educate to support people to comply and enforce compliance when necessary.
The Rail Safety Regulator regulates the safety of railways and trains. We ensure the organisations involved in rail activity meet their safety duties and obligations and ensure system level risks are managed using education, engagement and regulatory enforcement.
Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return
We care about our people and invest in supporting our staff at NZTA. If you join us, you can expect:
- A supportive working environment
- Flexible working options
- A competitive salary package, aligned with your skills and experience
- 5 weeks annual leave and other great benefits.
Ready to take the next step in your career? We'd love to hear from you.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:'
Apply today by including a cover letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this role and attach along with your CV.
Rā Katinga | Applications close: 17 June 2025
For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz
To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.
NZTA| Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.
Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.