Newcastle Light Rail drivers wanted

**This article is from 2018. Please check newcastletransport.info or contact us for the latest information**

With Newcastle Light Rail testing to start in just a few months, Keolis Downer Hunter is recruiting for light rail drivers and operational control staff for the new multi modal center at Wickham.

Corporate Affairs Director, Andrew Fletcher said around 20 additional staff would be needed to operate the light rail system.

“Construction is drawing to a close and testing for Newcastle Light Rail will start in the coming months, which means we need drivers ready to go.”

“We are encouraging anyone who is interested to apply for our available positions. Whether they have worked in the transport industry before or would like to try a new career.”

“Being a light rail driver is about more than just operating the vehicle. You need to be customer centric and safety focused.”

“The role requires multitasking abilities, peripheral vision, and awareness of pedestrian and vehicle movements at all times.”

Earlier this year, four Keolis Downer Hunter employees trained and worked as drivers on the Gold Coast’s G:Link light rail during the Commonwealth Games.

Cory Moore, one of those employees, said he applied for the position because he wanted to be part of an international event and to gain new skills as a light rail driver.

“Learning to drive a tram was much more challenging than I thought. It requires a whole different set of fine-motor skills compared to driving a bus and the technology is quite advanced.”

“It’s really exciting knowing light rail will be running in Newcastle early next year.”

All candidates must complete a series of assessments prior to being selected for the role.

Successful candidates will then undergo a 30-day long intensive training course, based both in the classroom and on the job.

Keolis Downer Hunter employs over 400 staff across bus and ferry operations and administration, with over 100 additional staff taken on since 1 July last year.

To find out more or to register you interest visit our Careers page