Track Machine Operator Courses
A Track Machine Operator drives equipment to maintain and repair railway tracks, conducting inspections, performing repairs, and laying new tracks as needed while ensuring safety and teamwork.
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 Track Machine Operator
Get qualified to work as a Track Machine Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
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...
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Duration
Half day - 4 days
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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TLI37122
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
Get a job in railway maintenance and infrastructure with the TLI37122 Certificate III in Rail Infrastructure. This nationally recognised qualification allows you pursue nine different specialisations including: track maintenance and construction; turnout installation; track welding; track examination; rail testing; turnout construction; rail track surfacing; track drainage maintenance, tram or light rail. You’ll gain technical skills in your specialist area while learning how to work within railway qualit...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 12 months
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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TLIB3102
The TLIB3102 Adjust rail unit covers the skills and knowledge needed to adjust rail following safeworking rules, regulations, and workplace procedures. It includes identifying requirements, carrying out adjustments, and completing documentation. Work is done under some supervision in a team setting. Operators must meet state or territory rail safety laws and follow relevant guidelines. Those using mechanised equipment must have training and, if needed, hold the correct licence, permit, or certificate for ...
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Track Machine Operator.
Common questions
How much does a Track Machine Operator earn?
In Australia, a full time Track Machine Operator generally earns $2,100 per week ($109,200 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 Track Machine Operator?
This industry has experienced a drop in employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 230 people working as a Track Machine Operator in Australia compared to 330 five years ago. Track Machine Operators may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Track Machine Operator?
If you’re planning a career as a Track Machine Operator, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Rail Track Vehicle Driving. You’ll develop the skills to drive medium and heavy rail track vehicles and equipment. This course covers a range of topics including starting and stopping on-track equipment, operating rail track vehicle braking systems and responding to signals and trackside signs.
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More information
A Track Machine Operator drives plant to maintain and repair railway tracks. You might inspect rail lines and identify areas of concern. Track Machine Operators perform necessary repairs and may also conduct scheduled maintenance. You might also lay new track lines when required.
Track Machine Operators should be able to follow instructions and work as part of a team. It’s important that you are safety focused and can follow correct procedures during your duties. Track Machine Operators should have strong attention to detail and excellent situational awareness. You’ll need to be a good communicator and have strong problem solving abilities.
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