Drive cultural and performance change in Rail Safety
Shape the strategic direction within NZTA and the rail industry
Permanent role, based in Wellington, with nationwide travel
Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
We are seeking an experienced regulator to join our team as a Senior Rail Safety Officer to deliver specialist regulatory and rail safety investigation services on behalf of NZTA. The role will provide thought and practice leadership in railway incident investigations and contribute to the full range of regulatory functions to ensure NZTA is effective in delivering its rail regulatory responsibilities.
You will conduct investigations competently and efficiently, adhering to high standards required by law and consistent with the Rail Safety Investigations Framework. You will prepare investigation reports for all levels of regulatory outcomes, including (but not restricted to) remedial actions, prohibitions, and prosecutions.
In this role you will build and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, providing advice and direction on rail transport safety matters in a continuous improvement environment. You will facilitate regulatory compliance and good practice both within the team and throughout the rail industry through effective communication, mentoring and relationship building.
You'll be based in our Wellington office, and there will be times when you are required to travel in New Zealand for this role. You must have a full driver licence, with no convictions.
View the position description here.
We are seeking to appoint at a salary between $109,408 -$133,720 commensurate to skills and experience.
Ko koe tēnei | About you
To be successful in this role, you will bring the following knowledge and experience:
Strong background in the Rail industry with knowledge and experience of rail systems and regulatory requirements
Demonstrated investigative experience in the transport sector
Regulatory compliance experience
Extensive practical experience and knowledge in transport, infrastructure or engineering
Proven experience in performance or outcome monitoring
Proven success in the building and maintenance of effective relationships
Excellent communication and relationship building skills
Qualifications:
• Tertiary qualification or significant relevant experience in investigation; or regulatory compliance
You will demonstrate knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an understanding of Te Ao Māori and promote tikanga and Te Reo Māori. You will also have knowledge of, or a willingness to gain an appreciation of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) as it applies in the public sector.
Ko wai mātou | About us
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 and we, as Te Rōpu 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 Rail Safety Regulator regulates the safety of railways and trains. We ensure the organisations involved in rail activity meet their safety duties and obligations and ensure system level risks are managed using education, engagement and regulatory enforcement.
Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return
We care about our people and invest in supporting our staff at NZTA. If you join us, you can expect:
A supportive working environment
Flexible working options
A competitive salary package, aligned with your skills and experience
5 weeks annual leave and other great benefits.
Ready to take the next step in your career? We’d love to hear from you.
Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply:
Apply today by including a cover letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this role and attach along with your CV.
Rā Katinga | Applications close:
31 August 2025For further information, email: [email protected]
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.
