Traction Production Manager

Position Description About the Company At KiwiRail, we are committed to shaping the future of rail transport in Aotearoa. With over 150 years of experience, we take pride in connecting communities and ensuring the smooth movement of people and goods throughout the country. Guided by our purpose, Hononga Whaikaha, Oranga mo Aotearoa (Stronger Connections, Better New Zealand), we value collaboration, care, and responsibility among our more than 4,500 team members nationwide. Whether working in the field or behind the scenes, we are dedicated to safety, performance, and progress. About the Role We are seeking a Traction Production Manager to lead our traction field delivery operations in the Auckland Metro region. In this role, you will manage a team of Field Production Managers and oversee the safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery of isolation services, overhead line maintenance, ESO functions, and traction support for capital projects. This position emphasizes people-first leadership and requires a strong technical background. As a Traction Production Manager, you will champion safety and compliance while fostering a high-performing, inclusive team culture. You will ensure that our frontline teams are well-equipped to deliver outstanding results on every shift and for every job. Additionally, you will collaborate closely with project, engineering, and planning teams to address field delivery challenges, monitor performance, and drive long-term improvements in the maintenance and renewal of our traction systems. Requirements To be successful in this role, you should bring a wealth of experience as an operations leader in electrical or traction infrastructure, along with a genuine passion for leading teams in complex environments. Specifically, you will need: - Experience managing traction maintenance or heavy electrical infrastructure - Strong leadership and people development abilities - Knowledge of rail safety systems, standards, and codes - Excellent planning, coordination, and performance monitoring skills - Experience in incident investigation and response - A solid understanding of asset and operations management - Proficiency with Microsoft tools; experience with SAP or asset management systems is a plus It is also desirable that you have: - A relevant tertiary qualification in engineering or electrical management - Registration as an Electrician, Electrical Engineer, or Electrical Inspector Benefits At KiwiRail, your leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of New Zealand’s rail network. We offer a competitive salary along with opportunities for leadership development. In this varied and meaningful role, you will support a growing transport system while being part of a team culture that values inclusivity, safety, and collaboration. You will also have the opportunity to work on nationally significant infrastructure projects and receive support to balance your personal well-being with your professional impact. Ready to make a difference? If you are prepared to lead with purpose and help power Auckland’s traction future, we encourage you to apply today. Join us in delivering stronger connections across Aotearoa. Applications will close on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, unless filled prior.