|
Looking for a career change?
Make your next move matter, become a train driver!
If you’re seeking a stable, purpose‑driven career with clear training pathways and the chance to make a real impact on your community, this role offers that and more.
About the role
Join the Public Transport Authority (PTA) in its mission to deliver world‑class public transport services across Western Australia. With one of the cleanest, safest and most efficient rail networks in the country, you’ll be part of a team that keeps communities connected every single day.
As a Train Driver Trainee, you’ll operate at the front line of passenger transport, ensuring services run safely, smoothly and reliably. Collaboration, teamwork and respect are central to how we work, and you’ll be part of a strong safety‑driven culture that values shared ideas and continuous learning.
The role involves shift work, weekend work and varied start and finish times. You may also be required to work at different locations as operational needs arise.
Those appointed to the trainee program will receive comprehensive, paid training over 28 weeks, followed by a 3‑month probationary period. After successfully completing both stages, your permanent appointment as a Railcar Driver will be confirmed.
About you
This role suits people who are motivated to learn, committed to doing things the right way, and ready to take on a role where focus and accountability genuinely matter. You’ll bring:
- Clear communication skills: including the ability to actively listen, absorb information and share information effectively.
- A strong respect for procedures: natural inclination to follow structured processes and operate equipment safely according to correct protocols and instructions.
- Calmness and adaptability: especially when things change unexpectedly, enabling you to think clearly, stay composed and respond confidently.
- Problem‑solving skills: using available information, system cues and training to make sound and timely decisions.
- A collaborative mindset: valuing teamwork and contributing positively to a respectful, inclusive and supportive workplace.
- Digital Literacy: confident use of computer-based systems to complete training, assessments and gain access to operational procedures.
This is a great opportunity for individuals who want to build a meaningful, long‑term career, even if their professional experience is still developing. The PTA provides the training, support and structure needed for you to grow into this safety‑critical role with confidence.
About Us
The Public Transport Authority (PTA) is a leader in its field, driven by a simple and powerful purpose: getting everyone there. Through constant care, education and forward thinking, we provide a world-class network and workplace that will get everyone there.
Under the PTA, Western Australia’s public transport system is the best in Australia and among the most efficient, clean and safe networks globally. With over 150 million boardings across all services during FY24/25, our buses, ferries and trains move the people of WA where they need to go.
Moving millions of people requires the skill and commitment of a talented workforce, one that is fostered by a culture of inclusivity and benefits from its diversity. This is ultimately what ensures the PTA delivers on our purpose while upholding our values every step of the way.
Our Values
The PTA’s Values define what is important to us. Knowing our values helps you understand how we do business and what is expected of you as an employee of the PTA.
Upholding these values and applying them to your work requires a genuine and committed understanding.
- Safety: We are committed to safety and protecting your future.
- Respect: We value and respect our customers, suppliers and each other.
- Recognition: We recognise each other for achievement, initiative and innovation.
- Integrity: We are honest and ethical.
- Sustainability: We consider the long-term economic, social and environmental impact of everything we do.
What's in it for me?
- Paid 28‑week training with a competitive remuneration package.
- Generous leave, including five weeks of annual leave and long service leave after ten years.
- Salary sacrifice options to support your financial goals.
- Uniforms provided at no cost.
- Access to the PTA’s Health and Wellbeing Program.
- Plenty of career pathways and opportunities across the rail industry.
Please Note: As part of the selection process, shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a series of assessments and must be able to attend an in-person assessment centre scheduled for end of June – early July 2026.
These assessments are designed to ensure candidates meet the necessary competencies for the role. The stages of the process include:
- Aptitude Testing – Online
- Assessment Centre – In person (3.5hr session)
- Psychometric Testing – Online
Train Driver aptitude assessment results are valid for 24 months. If unsuccessful, candidates are eligible to reapply after this period.
This is a pool recruitment process where suitable applicants will be placed in a pool from which appointments will be made for this or similar positions. Initially this selection process will be used as vacancies arise, but it may also be used to appoint to similar positions in the agency on a permanent basis.
Applicants successful to the recruitment pool will be selected for future 28 week training programmes scheduled across 2026 & 2027, no leave will be approved during the training programme.
To be eligible to work permanently at the PTA you must be either an Australian Citizen, have Permanent Residency status or hold a current visa with permanent working rights in Australia.
The PTA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and persons from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply.
Please be advised that the Public Transport Authority’s recruitment assessment processes and standards are continuously subject to review and change. These adjustments are primarily driven by competencies required for safety-critical roles.
As a result, if you are successful in being accepted into a recruitment pool, you may need to undertake and pass additional assessments to ensure your capabilities continue to meet any revised safety requirements.
Further Information
Please refer to the attached Job Description Form (JDF) and Railcar Driver Information booklet for full details about the position, including any specific requirements relevant to appointment.
Please contact Andy May, Projects Coordination Manager on (08) 9326 2013 for specific information about the role.
For more information about the PTA, please visit www.pta.wa.gov.au.
For technical difficulties, please contact the RAMS helpdesk at 1300 733 056 or email ramshelpdesk@bigredsky.com
How to Apply
To be eligible for shortlisting applicants must provide the following:
- A comprehensive CV with two work related referees.
- A written application responding to the following question (in no more than 2 pages):
Describe a specific situation where you were required to solve a problem in a safety-critical or time-pressured environment. In your response, outline the situation, the problem you identified, the actions you took, and the outcome.
To ensure your application is considered, make sure you upload all required documentation and follow the ‘Application Process’ and “How to Apply” instructions carefully.
Applicants are requested to apply online using the ‘Apply for Job’ button at the top/bottom of the screen. Please note the closing date and time, as no emailed, late or pro forma applications will be accepted.
Please use the attached link for help and advice on how to complete a government application. How to complete a government application.
All applications must be submitted through the PTA website, or the WA Government jobs portal. Applications received via other platforms will not be considered.
Please note that, if you are the recommended applicant, you will be required to obtain an Australian National Police Clearance(NPC). Completion of the PTA Integrity and Qualification Consent Form will only be required where qualification checks are undertaken. Adverse outcomes of NPCs will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from the selection process. Suitable applicants may also need to undertake a full and comprehensive medical assessment.
|
