Senior Rail Safety Officer

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency; Christchurch; On-site; GBP 48,000 - GBP 54,000; Full time

Job summary

A New Zealand transport authority is seeking a Senior Rail Safety Officer to monitor and assess rail license holders and ensure compliance with regulatory and legal requirements. The role involves risk-based assessments and the application of regulatory powers as necessary. Ideal candidates will have regulatory experience in transport, strong communication skills, and a passion for safety. The organization offers a supportive environment with flexible working arrangements and comprehensive benefits, including five weeks of annual leave.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Five weeks annual leave

Life and Income Protection Insurance

Qualifications

• Regulatory experience and knowledge in transport or related industry.
• Proven assessment (audit) planning, delivery and reporting.
• Ability to interpret legislation into practice.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• Investigative or lead audit experience.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and assess rail license holders for compliance.
• Provide compliance support and advice.
• Carry out risk-based assessments (audits).
• Exercise statutory powers as required.

Skills

Regulatory experience

Assessment planning

Excellent communication skills

Critical thinking

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Senior Rail Safety Officer page is loaded## Senior Rail Safety Officerlocations: Christchurchtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todaytime left to apply: End Date: February 23, 2026 (17 days left to apply)job requisition id: JR-0000012086* Bring your regulatory and audit experience to monitor and assess rail license holders* Full time, Flexible working, 5 weeks annual leave* Based in Christchurch / lower South Island region**Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity**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, ensuing 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.We are looking for someone who has a strong background in regulation and is passionate about safety. You will enjoy building effective working relationships with colleagues and regulated parties alike and be able to share your expertise to achieve positive safety outcomes.**Ko koe tēnei | About you**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 risksThis role requires regular travel throughout New Zealand.View the position descriptionWe 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 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 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 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.**Me pēhea te tuku tono** **|** **How to apply:**Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.**Rā Katinga | Applications close:**22 February 2026For further information, email: [e-mail] 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.