Trainee Locomotive Driver

Trainee Locomotive Driver | Pacific National

Location: Port Augusta SA

Work Type: Permanent Full Time

Industry: Transport & Logistics – Rail

• Comprehensive Traineeship with a nationally recognised qualification in Train Driving
• Take the first step into a rail career and earn while you learn and build your skills
• Excellent chance to secure a very sought after position

The Opportunity

Our team in Port Augusta are recruiting Trainee Locomotive Drivers (Driver in Training - Stage 1) to join their train crew. These newly created positions represent a rewarding opportunity within an expanding business to earn great pay, while learning new skills and building your career.

Commencing as a Trainee, you will undertake an accelerated traineeship program. This program includes a three-stage progression approach and builds on theoretical and practical knowledge achieved within an operational rail environment.

The traineeship will enable the participants to qualify as a Qualified Driver within Pacific National, and upon successful completion of the program, receive - Certificate IV in Train Driving issued by Pacific National Registered Training Organisation (RTO). This is a nationally recognised qualification.

As a Trainee, you will be trained in all aspects of safe and efficient locomotive operations to develop the requisite driver skillset through competency-based assessments and on and off the job training.

You will be upskilled with knowledge to prepare, manage and operate locomotives and trains safely, and comply with established operational procedures in order to maintain our high level of customer service delivery for customers.

About You

Pacific National is proud to be part of the Port Augusta community, and we encourage locals to apply for this position.

No experience is necessary, although any prior exposure to working within a safety critical environment will be highly regarded.

We will provide full training for successful applicants who possess the following:

• A high regard for safety
• Customer focus with the ability to work effectively within a team
• Basic level of computer proficiency and excellent communication skills
• Passion for success and personal development
• Experience with shift work and flexibility to work a highly variable roster
• Ability to work away from home for varying periods.
• A current "C" class driver's licence
• School Certificate or equivalent
• Reside no more than 100kms away from the depot

Your availability and commitment to working rotating 24/7 shifts including nights and weekends is essential and will be vital for your success in the role. Additionally, some of the shifts will require you to stay overnight, away from your Home Depot location.

Recruitment Process

The recruitment process consists of a number of stages including virtual assessments, interviews and pre-employment checks, Rail Safety Medical assessment, National Police check and reference checks. 

The training program will commence in 2026.

Please note, Pacific National will also be creating talent pools for future opportunities.

To find out more about Trainee Driver Programs please visit our website

Trainee Driver Program

Why join us?

• Career development & mentoring opportunities
• Paid parental leave (12 weeks for primary carers)
• Mental health support via PeerConnect & EAP
• Discounts on fitness, health insurance, travel & more
• Inclusive culture where you can be your authentic self

Apply now and help shape the future of rail operations with Pacific National.

Applications close 21st November 2025

We live by our Values: Make it Simple, Share More, Kindness, Gratitude, Curiosity, and Own it

Safely Every Day – bringing safety into every moment, every interaction, every day".

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and offer reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Pacific National acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work live and rail.