👋 Welcome and Introduction

Thank you for your interest in joining Trojan Rail as a Driver Assistant. If you are successful in your application, you will be employed by us on a casual basis and supported through a structured training and onboarding program delivered in partnership with our trusted RTO, Challenger Training Pty Ltd (RTO Code: 91830).

This is a unique opportunity to enter the rail freight industry, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and begin a meaningful career supporting one of Australia’s leading freight operators — Pacific National.

🚉 About the Driver Assistant Role

As a Driver Assistant, you will work alongside qualified Train Drivers to help operate freight services safely and efficiently. You’ll play an important role in:

• Monitoring train conditions
• Assisting with shunting, inspections, and yard operations
• Communicating with train crew and control centres
• Ensuring safe rail movements in live operational environments
• You’ll be required to follow safety procedures, attend shift work (including nights and weekends), and maintain high levels of situational awareness at all times.
• This is a casual position, with hours allocated depending on client demand and operational requirements.

📍 Working with Pacific National – Your Host Employer
Pacific National is Australia’s largest private rail freight operator, with a strong presence across NSW. They specialise in hauling coal, grain, freight, and bulk materials across the country.

If successful, you’ll work on sites such as Werris Creek, Gunnedah, Narrabri, and Mudgee, Willow Tree supporting terminal operations and train crews.

On-site, you can expect:

• A high-performance, safety-first work culture
• A team environment with experienced Train Drivers and supervisors
• Operational variety including yard duties, roll-by inspections, and train preparation
• Ongoing supervision and support from Pacific National and Trojan Rail
• You must complete all required inductions and comply with their WHS policies at all times.

📚 Training Overview – Delivered by Challenger Training
Your formal training is delivered by Challenger Training Pty Ltd (RTO Code: 91830).

This includes both theoretical and practical learning, with a focus on safety, communication, and industry-specific competencies.

🏅 Perks and Benefits

Working with Trojan Rail comes with a number of benefits designed to support your entry into the rail industry:

• Nationally recognised training delivered at no cost to you
• Accommodation and meals provided during practical training (if applicable)
• Travel covered for required training components
• Industry placement with Pacific National — one of Australia’s top rail operators
• Opportunity to progress to further roles in the rail industry
• Supportive team culture with direct access to trainers, coordinators, and managers
• Weekly pay with applicable shift loadings for casual work
• PPE supplied at no cost
• Ongoing work opportunities depending on performance and operational needs

 

 

 👤 Who We're Looking For – Ideal Candidate Profile

We are seeking individuals who are genuinely interested in a long-term career in the rail industry and are ready to take the first step into a safety-critical, operational role.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following:

✅ Safety-first mindset – Committed to following procedures and alert to risk

✅ Physically fit – Capable of manual handling, climbing rail equipment, and working on your feet in outdoor conditions

✅ Flexible and reliable – Willing to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays

✅ Strong communication skills – Able to follow clear instructions and report information accurately

✅ Eager to learn – Willing to take on new challenges and follow a structured training pathway

✅ Punctual and professional – Values teamwork and workplace standards

✅ Committed to full program completion – Available for all 10 weeks of training, including classroom, practical, and on-the-job components

✅ Holds a valid Class C driver’s licence

✅ Has legal work rights in Australia

No previous rail experience is required. We’re looking for dependable people who take pride in their work and are open to growing within the industry.

📝 Application Process – Step by Step

Step 1. Submit your Expression of Interest

Complete the online appliation and upload your resume and drivers licence. Ensure your contact details and driver's licence information are current.

Step 2: Application Review

Our team will review your application to check:

• Living within a reasonable distance of the job location
• Having the legal right to work in Australia
• Holding a valid Class C driver’s licence (minimum)
• You meet the basic requirements for a safety-critical role

Step 3. Pre-Screening Phone Interview

If shortlisted, you’ll be contacted for a brief phone interview to discuss:

• Your interest in the role
• Your availability for training
• Any concerns or questions you may have

Step 4. Reference Checks

We will contact two previous employer or supervisor to confirm your work history, reliability, and general attitude toward safety and teamwork.

Step 5. Pre-Employment Checks

If you progress to this stage, you'll be required to complete:

• National Police Check
• Driver Licence History Check (to verify licence validity and safety standards)

Step 6. Meet and Greet Session

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a face-to-face session that includes:

Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) Assessment. Assesses reading, writing, numeracy, and oral communication to identify support needs and ensure candidates can meet the training and job requirements.

Challenger Training, Trojan Rail & Pacific National Presentation
Learn about Trojan Rail, Challenger Training, and Pacific National, including their roles in the training and employment process, operational sites, and what a typical day in the role involves. This is a valuable opportunity to ask questions, understand the work environment, and gain insight into the course, training structure, and job expectations.

Step 7. Medical Assessment

All candidates must complete and pass a Category 1 Rail Medical, conducted by an approved provider. This medical confirms you are medically and physically fit to perform rail safety work.

The assessment includes:

• Drug and alcohol screening
• Muscular fitness assessment (assessing your ability to safely carry out physical tasks, such as lifting, climbing, and manual handling)
• Vision, hearing, and cardiovascular checks
• General health screening in line with national rail safety worker requirements

Successful completion of this medical is a requirement of the role.

Step 8. Finalise Enrolment & Employment

Once medically cleared, you will:

• Enrol with Challenger Training Pty Ltd using your Unique Student Identifier (USI)
• Sign your Trojan Rail Employment Contract

This confirms your place in the program and your employment with Trojan Rail.

Step 9. Training Commencement

You’ll begin the training program, delivered by Challenger Training and supported by Trojan Rail.

 

Purpose of the Medical

The Category 1 Rail Medical ensures rail operational crew, as safety-critical workers, are fit to perform their roles without compromising public or workplace safety.

Key Components of the Medical

Medical History Review:A comprehensive medical history review involves a thorough evaluation of an individual's past and present health conditions, including all medications being taken—prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. This process helps healthcare providers understand the patient's overall health status and identify any potential medication-related issues.

Vision and Hearing Tests:Assessment of colour vision, peripheral vision, and hearing ability to meet operational standards.

Cardiovascular Fitness:Tests for heart health, blood pressure, and other indicators of cardiovascular risk.

Neurological Assessment:Screening for conditions like seizures, blackouts, and other neurological impairments.

Psychological Evaluation:Assessment for mental health, cognitive functioning, and stress management.

Drug and Alcohol Screening:Testing for substances that may impair performance.

Body Mass Index (BMI):A BMI of 35 or higher may indicate a higher risk of health issues, such as sleep apnoea, which will require additional evaluation.

Neck Circumference:A neck measurement of 16 inches (40 cm) or more may signal an increased risk of sleep apnoea and leads to further testing.

STOP-Bang Questionnaire:A validated 8-question tool used to screen for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). A score of 3 or more requires further testing, such as a sleep study.

Medication Review:

Certain medications may prompt a more detailed medical review due to factors such as potential side effects, interactions with other drugs, or implications for specific health conditions. For example, medications with a high risk of adverse effects or those that require regular monitoring might necessitate additional testing above a standard rail medical.

Evaluation of any medications currently being taken, including:

• Prescription and over-the-counter medications.

• Medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or mental health disorders.

• Medications that may cause drowsiness, impair alertness, or interact with other drugs.

Key Considerations:Workers must disclose all medications during the assessment.

• Certain medications may require further evaluation to determine if they impact the worker's ability to perform safety-critical tasks.

• Rail safety workers must notify their operator of any new or changed medications that could affect their fitness for duty.

Frequency

Initial Assessment: Before starting a safety-critical role.

Periodic Assessments:

• Every 5 years for workers under 50.
• Every 2 years for workers aged 50 or older.
  
  

The authorised health professional conducting the assessment.

This medical aligns with the National Standard for Health Assessment of Rail Safety Workers 2024, ensuring safety and fitness for critical roles.

If you do not meet the standards of the Category 1 Health Assessment or the Musculoskeletal Fitness Assessment, you will be deemed ineligible to perform safeworking duties. These roles demand a high level of physical and mental fitness to maintain safety standards.

As a result, you will not advance to the next stage of the recruitment or training process.

Yes, a valid First Aid Certificate (minimum standard: HLTAID011) is required before training begins. If you do not currently hold one, you’ll need to obtain it prior to starting.

Successful candidates who complete the recruitment process, including passing the Rail Medical, will be offered an employment contract. Once signed, you will enrol in your training program to prepare for your role as a Locomotive Driver Assistant.

Training Details

Duration:
Ten weeks of classroom and practical training, followed by on-the-job experience.

You will be required to complete a logbook during your placement to support your learning and demonstrate competency.

Schedule

Weeks 1 to 3 and Weeks 6 & 7 – Classroom-based training in [Location advised during interview].

Week 4 & 5– Practical, hands-on training in Werris Creek, focused on developing core operational skills

Weeks 6 to 7 – Classroom-based training

Week 7 – Onboarding with your host employer, Pacific National

Weeks 8 to 10 – Freelancing period, where you will apply your learning on the job under supervision, adapting your knowledge to real rail operations

Week 10 – Logbook submission for review and assessment

While our standard schedule is Monday to Friday, practical training weeks typically run in blocks that may include weekend work.

Trainer:

Training will be delivered by a highly experienced Driver Trainer, qualified through Challenger Training Pty Ltd (RTO Code: 91830).

Logistics:
Information regarding training locations, and if applicable, travel, accommodation, and daily arrangements will be discussed during the interview process.

✅ 1. Logbook Review

In Week 10, your completed logbook is submitted to Challenger Training. It is reviewed to ensure all required tasks have been completed, and competencies are met.

✅ 2. Verification of Competency (VOC)

You’ll undertake a VOC assessment with a qualified Pacific National Driver Trainer. This is a formal process to confirm that you:

• Can safely perform key rail duties
• Understand and apply operational procedures
• Are ready to work under minimal supervision

✅ 3. Progression to Stage 3 Employment

If you pass your VOC:

• You’ll move to Stage 3 of your Trojan Rail Casual Employment Contract
• Your pay rate will increase, as discussed during onboarding
• You will be rostered for ongoing shifts with Pacific National based on operational needs

✅ 4. Ongoing Work as a Driver Assistant

You will begin working regular shifts in the field. This may include:

• Assisting with train movements
• Shunting and yard duties
• Supporting Driver operations
• Communicating with controllers and terminal staff

✅ 5. Further Opportunities

Based on your performance and availability:

• You may be offered longer-term or higher-frequency shifts
• Additional upskilling, assessments, or qualifications may be made available
• Some candidates go on to become full-time employees or pursue higher roles in rail (e.g. future locomotive driver pathway)

Full attendance is mandatory during the training program, site onboarding, and inductions. Leave will only be approved under exceptional circumstances.

Yes, this training is nationally accredited through Challenger Training, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with RTO Code: 91830. For more details, visit:

https://training.gov.au/Organisation/Details/91830/summary

If you already hold any rail units of competency, you may ask for credit transfers. Reach out to us and provide a copy of your USI transcript.

 

There are 3 stages in the training program. You will have a separate enrolment and training plans for each stage.

Stage 1: Skill Set TLISS00103 - Accessing the Rail Corridor (Release 2)

https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/TLISS00103/skillsetdetails

On Day 1 and Day 2, you will focus on the theory and practical training for this skill set (TLIF0020 - Safely access the rail corridor). Once you successfully complete this stage, you will receive a Statement of Attainment, which allows you to safely enter the rail corridor under the guidance of your Driver Trainer.

 

Stage 2: "Part" Qualification TLI42622 - Certificate IV in Train Driving

https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/TLI42622/qualdetails

Starting on Day 3, you’ll begin the theoretical training for the following units:

Cluster 1: Rail Safety & WHS Fundamentals

TLIB3118 – Apply awareness of railway fundamentals
TLIF0025 – Follow work health and safety procedures
TLID0020 – Shift materials safely using manual handling methods
TLIF3091 – Apply awareness of dangerous goods and hazardous materials requirements
TLIF2006 – Apply accident-emergency procedures

Cluster 2: Communication & Human Factors

TLIF0004 – Work effectively in a train-driving environment
TLIF0008 – Apply safety critical communications in the rail environment
TLIF2010 – Apply fatigue management strategies

Cluster 3: Train Preparation & Inspections

TLIB3026 – Prepare for train operation
TLIB0017 – Conduct a general train examination
TLIB3019 – Test train braking system
TLIB0014 – Carry out a train roll-by inspection
TLIB3018 – Full train examination

Cluster 4: Shunting Operations

TLIC4074 – Shunt, couple and uncouple rail vehicles

Stage 3: TLISS00230 - Rail Operations Safeworking Skill Set

https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/TLISS00230/skillsetdetails

During this stage, you will also complete the Pacific National Enterprise Safeworking Training. The units in this skill set are specifically aligned with Safeworking competencies. Completing your logbook during the freelancing period is essential and will be part of the final assessment for this skill set.

Each stage has its own enrolment and training plan, so you can focus on one stage at a time. Keep an eye on your progress and complete the logbook when required!

NOTE: Upon successful completion of training and assessments, candidates will undertake a Verification of Competency (VOC). Passing the VOC leads to progression to Stage 3 of the employment contract, with an updated pay rate.

 

A Verification of Competency (VOC) is an assessment process conducted directly with the employer or at the worksite to confirm a person's ability to safely and effectively perform a specific task or operate equipment. It ensures compliance with industry standards and workplace safety requirements. Conducted by a qualified assessor, it involves theoretical and practical evaluations. If successful, the individual is certified as competent; if not, further training may be recommended. VOCs are commonly used in industries like rail, construction, and mining to maintain high safety and operational standards.