Rail Ops: Shunting Traineeship - Port Hedland Residential
Founded in 2003, our Pilbara mining operations export almost 200 million tonnes of iron ore annually to customers worldwide, making Fortescue the fourth-largest and most efficient iron ore mining company in the world.
Our Opportunity
Fortescue is pleased to open applications for the 2026 Port Hedland Residential Rail Ops: Shunting Traineeship intake.
Work Location: Port Hedland - Fortescue’s Hedland Operations are located on the traditional lands of the Kariyarra people.
***Please note that you must already live locally in Port Hedland to be successful for this intake.
Roster: 4D–4N–8R
What's on offer:
- Earn a nationally recognised Certificate II in Shunting (TLI23221) while gaining hands-on experience in Fortescue’s heavy-haul rail operations
- 12 month fixed term contract, employed through Programmed and working at our Port Operations in Hedland
- Work a 4D–4N–8R roster and learn alongside experienced Shunters, Train Drivers and Rail Operators
- Develop real rail operational skills, including train preparation, yard operations, rolling stock inspections, safe corridor access and communication protocols
- Guaranteed structured training pathway partnered with an RTO and supported by Fortescue’s Rail Training Team and Programmed
- Above-award trainee pay rates with all PPE and training costs covered during the 12-month program
- Exposure to a world-class rail network, gaining experience in one of the largest heavy-haul operations in the world
- Clear progression opportunities upon successful completion, including potential pathways into Shunter, Driver- or Rail Operations roles
- Ideal for candidates new to rail, seeking a safety-critical operations career with long-term outlook and development opportunities
About You:
- Currently reside in the Port Hedland region
- Recent high school leaver - must be 18 years or older at the commencement of the traineeship program (early March 2026)
- Hold a full valid Australian drivers licence
- Comfortable working in a physical and challenging environment
- The ability to work rosters including long hours and night shift
Our Process:
Step One:
Submit your application - be sure to answer all the questions and provide as much information as possible. Please attach the below to your application:
- A current resume listing your relevant work experience to date
- A cover letter describing yourself and motivation for applying
The quality of your application is part of the initial shortlisting criteria!
Step Two:
If your application is shortlisted and progressed to the next stage, you will be contacted and invited to attend an Assessment Centre held in South Hedland on the 24th of February 2026!
Step Three:
- External candidates deemed successful post assessment centre will complete pre-employment checks and be employed through Programmed and offered a 12-month contract as a Trainee Shunter.
- Internal candidates deemed successful post assessment centre will be offered offer a 12-month secondment as a Trainee Shunter.
- Start dates for all are scheduled for March 2026
