Job Overview & Organization Mission

Direct heavy haul freight train movements, locomotive driver rostering, and safety compliance across the Central Queensland Coal Network at Aurizon.

Aurizon is hiring a Locomotive Operations Superintendent to lead rail freight operations based in Rockhampton, Queensland. Managing operations across the Blackwater and Moura rail corridors, you will oversee multi-thousand-tonne bulk coal and mineral freight trains, manage locomotive drivers and train crew rosters, optimize diesel-electric locomotive fuel consumption, and enforce Rail Safety National Law (RSNL) standards.

As a key member of the team at Aurizon in Rockhampton, QLD, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Direct daily: Direct daily train operations, ensuring trains depart and transit on path to coastal export coal terminals (Gladstone).
• Lead and: Lead and mentor a large team of Locomotive Drivers, Driver Trainers, and Train Operations Managers.
• Ensure adherence: Ensure adherence to Rail Safety National Law (RSNL), ONRSR regulations, and Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS).
• Coordinate with: Coordinate with network train control (Aurizon Network) to recover train paths during track blockages or derailments.
• Manage depot: Manage depot operational budgets, locomotive availability metrics, and safety audit performance.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Aurizon, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Rail Locomotive Driver accreditation or Degree in Rail Operations / Engineering.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 7+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• 7+ years of operational railway experience in freight train driving, train dispatch, or rail operations management.
• Deep comprehension of Rail Safety National Law (RSNL) and Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) requirements.
• Proven leadership capability managing unionized rail operational workforces and enterprise agreements.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to pass Category 1 Rail Medical examinations.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Aurizon, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$155,000 – AU$185,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• High salary ($155,000 – $185,000) + performance bonus + relocation assistance to Rockhampton.
• Rockhampton regional lifestyle with strong community spirit, affordable housing, and great climate.
• Aurizon employee share purchase plan and corporate health insurance discounts.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Aurizon

Aurizon is Australia’s largest rail freight operator, connecting Australian miners, primary producers, and industry with domestic and export markets.

Aurizon is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Aurizon careers gateway.