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- Tasks: Monitor and assess rail safety compliance, ensuring regulations are met.
- Company: Join NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, a leader in rail safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 5 weeks annual leave, and comprehensive health insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on rail safety and contribute to community well-being.
- Qualifications: Regulatory experience in transport, strong communication, and problem-solving skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel opportunities and career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 57000 - 63000 ÂŁ per year.
We are looking for a Senior Rail Safety Officer to join our team. This is an opportunity for you to play a vital role in rail safety at NZTA Waka Kotahi by monitoring and assessing rail participants, ensuring they meet regulatory and legal requirements. This is a proactive role where you will work closely with your portfolio of rail licence holders to provide compliance support and advice, carry out risk-based assessments (audits) to monitor rail participants as well as exercising statutory powers when required.
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
- Regulatory experience and knowledge in transport or related industry
- Proven experience in assessment (audit) planning, delivery and reporting
- Ability to interpret legislation and put it into practice
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to build rapport easily
- Investigative, risk assurance or lead audit experience
- Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Experience and ability to manage and identify safety risks
This role requires regular travel throughout New Zealand.
We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $109,408 - $121,564 commensurate to skills and experience.
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 Waka Kotahi and we, as Te RĹŤpu 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 National Rail Safety Regulation team regulates the safety of New Zealand rail industry. We ensure the organisations and personnel involved in rail activity meet their safety duties and obligations and ensures system level risks are managed using education, engagement and regulatory enforcement.
Our people are proud to be part of creating a better New Zealand. We’re searching for candidates who share our passion for people, communities, and the environment—and who are ready to contribute their unique skills to shape a better future.
At NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, you'll be part of an organisation where the different backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences of our people are celebrated. We want you to feel like you belong here - valued, respected, and empowered to bring your whole self to work.
From five weeks annual leave through to Life, Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for our permanent employees – you will be well looked after here. Our benefits are designed to support our people and provide a happy, healthy and high-performing environment. We take a principle-based approach to flexibility that enables our people and their People Leaders to discuss and agree the arrangements that work best for the individual, the team, and the organisation.
And whether it’s on-the-job experience, signing up to a course, coaching opportunities, or secondments to other roles within NZTA – you can build a varied and successful career with us and grow your potential.
How to apply: Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.
Applications close: 22 February 2026
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. 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.
Senior Rail Safety Officer in Christchurch employer: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
Contact Detail:
Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Rail Safety Officer in Christchurch
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the rail industry or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its safety initiatives. Show them you’re not just passionate about safety, but you also understand their specific challenges and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Being able to build rapport is key in this role. Try mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable sharing your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Rail Safety Officer in Christchurch
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your regulatory and audit experience. We want to see how your background aligns with the Senior Rail Safety Officer role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about rail safety and how your experience can contribute to our mission at NZTA Waka Kotahi. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves building relationships, make sure to highlight your excellent communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. We love candidates who can connect with others and share their expertise effectively.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might start shortlisting candidates as we receive applications, so get your CV and cover letter in early through our website to increase your chances!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency
✨Know Your Regulations
Make sure you brush up on the relevant regulations and legislation related to rail safety. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they apply to the role will show your expertise and commitment to safety.
✨Showcase Your Audit Experience
Prepare examples of your previous audit planning, delivery, and reporting experiences. Be ready to explain how you've successfully assessed compliance in past roles, as this is crucial for the Senior Rail Safety Officer position.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since relationship management is key in this role, practice your communication skills. Think of ways to connect with your interviewers by sharing relevant stories that highlight your ability to build effective working relationships.
✨Demonstrate Critical Thinking
Be prepared to tackle hypothetical scenarios during the interview. Show how you approach problem-solving and risk management, as these skills are essential for ensuring safety in the rail industry.
