Heavy Rail Plant Operator
Permanent Night Shift
Ballarat
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Job security and development opportunities within the organisation
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Work with purpose: Help connect Victorians safely and reliably across the state
V/Line’s purpose is to connect Victorians through safe, reliable, and accessible transport. We believe in giving all Victorians opportunities through travel and transport – connecting them to jobs, education, family and friends, services, tourism and trade.
V/Line is experiencing significant growth and we’re delivering more services, more trains, cheaper fares, and huge projects. With more than 3700 weekly train and coach services, an expansive freight network and unprecedented rail investment, millions of Victorians depend on us to deliver. You could be one of our 3100 committed team members who are up to the challenge.
About the role
Reporting to the Ganger, you’ll play a hands-on role in the maintenance, renewal, and upgrade of track and civil structures. You’ll operate and drive medium rigid trucks and rail plant, assist with loading/unloading, and perform both manual and machinery-based tasks to keep our rail network in top condition.
Your day will involve:
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Replacing or renewing sleepers, rail, ballast, and crossing materials
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Operating medium plant, trucks, and equipment safely
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Working across Victoria – with potential for overnight stays and varying shifts
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Collaborating with a supportive team and contractors on rail maintenance projects
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Following strict safety and compliance standards to protect yourself, your team, and the community
Key Accountabilities include:
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Loading and unloading equipment for transportation.
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Taking full responsibility for the truck and plant ensuring maintenance and servicing are completed as required.
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Participating in the replacement of rail components like track, ballasts, and fastenings, and performing general maintenance and cleaning.
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Ensure that all operations comply with safety standards.
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Assist the team with manual labouring tasks when not operating plant and machinery.
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There will be the requirement to work overtime, stay away from home, travel to different locations and work different shifts on occasion.
About you
You’re someone who enjoys working outdoors in all weather conditions, takes pride in producing quality work, and understands the importance of safety on the job. You’re reliable, adaptable, and a strong team player, but can also work independently when needed. You’re comfortable with night shift and occasional time away from home, and you’re looking for a role that offers variety, stability, and the chance to develop new skills.
To be considered for entry into the selection process for this role, applicants must meet the following 'key selection criteria' which forms part of our merit-based recruitment process:
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Cert II in Rail Infrastructure preferred or willingness to obtain within 6 months
Current Heavy Rigid Truck Licence and relevant plant operation competencies (Loader, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Excavator 4.5–12T)
Heavy Combination Licence (preferred but not mandatory)
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Safely Access the Rail Corridor (Track Awareness) accreditation (or willingness to obtain)
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Strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and quality work
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Flexibility to work different shifts and travel when required
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Demonstrated alignment with V/Line’s values of responsiveness, integrity, impartiality, accountability, respect, leadership and human rights.
In addition to free myki travel, we offer:
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Community impact – Make a genuine difference. Work in a role that connects Victorians, every day.
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Huge potential – We’re transforming, and you can too. Be a change maker, recognised for your contribution and creativity.
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Dynamic environment – V/Line operates in a constantly changing space. Join a fast-paced and exciting organisation.
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Collaborative team – You’ll be part of a broader supportive team. Surround yourself with talented, passionate peers.
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Flexible working – We support flexible working. Work in a way that supports you to thrive in your role.
We are committed to ensuring a comfortable and accessible recruitment experience. If you need any adjustments or have specific accessibility requirements at any stage of the process, please contact our Talent team at [email protected] or 1800 800 007 for confidential support.
As an equal opportunity employer, V/Line is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace and network that reflects the communities we serve. We accept and value the contributions of all our employees regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability. We are also proud to be endorsed by Work 180 as a great place for women to work, second year in a row.
We proudly acknowledge First Peoples of Victoria. We acknowledge their ongoing strength in practicing the world’s oldest living culture. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners’ lands, waters, and skies on which we live and pay respects to their Elders past and present.
At V/Line, safety is our priority. Successful applicants will undergo relevant pre-employment and medical checks to meet our safeworking standards.
Remuneration for this position will be in line with the V/Line Rail Asset Management Enterprise Agreement 2023
