Rail Worker Courses
A Rail Worker maintains and repairs rail systems, installing tracks and equipment while conducting inspections and scheduled maintenance.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Rail Worker
Get qualified to work as a Rail Worker with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
TLI27121
Duration
2 days - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
Get an operational role on the railways with the TLI27121 Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure. This nationally recognised qualification allows you to specialise in either track work, structures, track surfacing, or tram and light rail infrastructure. The course covers: using hand tools, safe manual handling, communicating with your work team, following WHS procedures, managing fatigue, environmental procedures for rail infrastructure, technical skills related to railway maintenance work, and much more. ...
Career opportunities
Duration
2 days - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
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TLIF0020
Duration
Half day - 4 days
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
TLIF0020 Safely Access the Rail Corridor is an Australian rail industry short course that teaches you the rules and protocols for entering a rail corridor and carrying out work in the danger zone. The course covers: gaining authority to enter the rail corridor from a Rail Protection Officer, wearing HI-vis clothing and appropriate PPE, carrying out a visual assessment and identifying hazards, recognising the speed and direction of oncoming trains, taking action in unsafe situations, responding to an emerg...
Career opportunities
Duration
Half day - 4 days
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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UET30721
Duration
12 months - 4 years
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
Become a rail traction line worker with the UET30721 Certificate III in ESI - Rail Traction. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to install and repair electrical systems and overhead powerlines for the railways. You’ll also have the technical skills to inspect and report on the performance and condition of railway infrastructure and traction power systems. Graduate job-ready with additional work permits in rigging, dogging, and boom-type elevating work platform operations. Enquire ...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 4 years
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
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TLIC2054
TLIC2054 Access rail track to run track vehicle within defined worksite is an Australian rail industry short course that teaches you the rules and protocols for safely running a rail track vehicle in accordance with legislation and rail industry procedures. The course covers: gaining authority to enter rail tracks from a Rail Protection Officer, wearing appropriate PPE, recognising points and signals, identifying hazards and changed conditions, observing speed limit, managing track vehicle to stop short o...
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Rail Worker.
Common questions
How much does a Rail Worker earn?
In Australia, a full time Rail Worker generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Rail Worker?
This industry has seen moderate employment growth in recent years. There are currently 5,800 people employed as a Rail Worker in Australia, compared to 5,500 five years ago. Rail Workers may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Rail Worker?
If you’re planning a career as a Rail Worker, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure. You’ll address various topics including safety procedures and environmental protocols. This course allows you to specialise in track work, track surfacing, structures or train and light rail. A Certificate IV in Rail Infrastructure may also be appropriate.
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More information
A Rail Worker performs maintenance and repair work on rail track systems. You might work on tracks, signals or other rail equipment. Rail Workers might install new tracks or equipment, carry out inspections of existing rail work systems or perform scheduled maintenance throughout a rail system. You might work on freight or passenger rail systems, tram tracks or industry-specific systems including mining.
Rail Workers should be physically fit and willing to work in a range of weather conditions. It’s important that you can work as part of a team and follow instructions closely. Rail Workers should have excellent attention to detail and good problem solving abilities. You’ll need to be able to follow correct procedures at all times.
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