Trainee Driver

Your opportunity

In this exciting permanent full-time role in Emerald, you will join a team that values your skills and dedication to safe and efficient rail operations to connect Queensland and our communities, driving the Spirit of the Outback and IML services.

January 2026 start (specific date to be confirmed). During the 3-month training, you MUST be available for the entire school; leave is not permitted. Upon successful completion of training, annual leave will not be granted until all routes are signed off.

For more specific information about the opportunity, please ensure you read this and the Position Description.

Benefits That Count

• Annual base rate for a trainee driver is $98,600, and the Full Flat Rate (FFR) is $134,900.
• Meal allowances paid as per EA, with a meal provided where possible when working Travel Train services.
• Individual self-contained minimum 3.5-star apartment when overnight stays are required.
• Yearly wage increases – minimum 3% each year until 2027.
• Commitment to maximizing employment security – includes no forced relocation and no forced redundancy.
• Opportunities for growth and leadership.
• Prioritize your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing with our range of free services.
• Access to QRI Lifestyle offers members over 2,000 exclusive discounts and services (fees apply).
• You and your family can get fit and have fun with access to over 380 gyms and pools through our Fitness Passport.

And more Click here to see the full range of benefits available to Queensland Rail employees.

New agreement (TBC) effective 31 December 2026

• Weekend penalties payable after working 26 Saturdays.
• Introduction of a 9-day fortnight.

Eligibility for interview:

• Confirm you will relocate to Emerald if successful, and understand you will be required to perform three (3) years' service at the location before being eligible to move to another location as per the EA.
• Current C Class Driver's Licence.
• Meet safety-critical benchmark for psychometric assessment (conducted after application in Queensland).

Applicants will undergo pre-employment testing for alcohol and other drugs, Category 1 health assessment, safety-critical psychometric assessments, reference checks, and potential background checks, including criminal history.

Supporting a Diverse Workforce

Queensland Rail acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Elders of the lands and waterways our network traverses.

Our teams are People who Count. We encourage diversity in our teams, including different genders, ages, races, disability statuses, sexual orientations, religions, neurodiversity, education levels, and many more aspects. No two journeys are the same, and it's because of our differences that, as a collective, we achieve great things.

Please advise if you would like to discuss reasonable adjustments in the recruitment process.

Your journey matters. Make it with us.

There's never been a more exciting time to join Queensland Rail. If you're ready to make a real impact and help shape our future, we encourage you to submit your resume and cover letter by 11:59 PM (AEST) on Thursday 28th August 2025.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Jelena.Nikolovski@qr.com.au with your specific enquiry.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

---