Boilermaker/Wagon Maintainer

Who is Watco?

Watco is a US based business established in 1983 in Pittsburg, Kansas with strong roots tied to our 'Customer First' Foundation Principles. Watco Australia operates rail services on the West and East coasts of Australia, providing container and bulk transportation solutions for customers in the grain, agriculture, livestock, rail infrastructure, minerals and steel manufacturing industries.

Watco Australia is a dynamic and growth focused organisation that is currently growing nationally. We have operations in Queensland, Western Australia, and New South Wales. Due to continued growth, we are seeking a Boilermaker/Wagon Maintainer to join our wagon maintenance team in Port Kembla, NSW.

About the Role

Our Boilermaker/Wagon Maintainer will be responsible for performing scheduled/unscheduled inspections, troubleshooting, repairs and preventive maintenance activities on various types of wagons in accordance with OEM maintenance instructions and best practice industry standards. This includes welding and boilermaking tasks such as fabrication, structural repairs, and reinforcement. They will need the ability to follow company guidelines and checklists while using mechanical aids, hand tools, power tools and measuring/testing tools. This is a permanent full-time position from Monday to Friday.

Duties include:

• Perform welding and boilermaking tasks as required for wagon maintenance, including fabrication, repair, and structural reinforcement.
• Conduct individual wagon and full train examinations as required.
• Observe mechanical and electrical equipment in operation to identify faults and determine causes of failure.
• Dismantle wagon components using hoists, cranes, hand tools and power tools to access and replace defective parts.
• Drive and utilise Maintenance Service Vehicles (MSV) and/or Maintenance Recovery Vehicles, and maintain associated vehicles and equipment.
• Inspect and measure wagon components to identify defects and assess suitability for re-use.
• Operate power and pneumatic tools.

What You’ll Need

• Proven skills in welding and boilermaking are required, with the ability to interpret technical drawings and perform structural repairs and fabrication.
• Minimum Certificate III trade qualification in fabrication or equivalent.
• Mechanical or fitter experience is desirable, or equivalent practical knowledge in a mechanical trade. Rail industry experience is preferred but not essential.
• Valid drivers ‘C’ class licence (required). Heavy rigid truck, forklift, crane dogman or rigger licences are desirable but not required.
• Ability to apply Rail Safety guidelines, company rules and procedures.
• Ability to work safely and read and comprehend written safety rules, procedures and safety manuals.
• Ability to ensure full compliance with all state agencies including but not limited to training, inspections, reporting, in accordance with all current OHS, and other safety requirements as applicable.

Classification and Pay

This role is covered by the Watco East Coast Maintenance and Rollingstock Enterprise Agreement 2025. This position is classified as a Field Service Technician under the Agreement.

Level 2

• $92,567.04 per year ($44.50/hr).
• All Level 1 requirements.
• Trade qualified with demonstrated competence in maintenance and repairs.
• Undertakes wagon maintenance training and competency development.
• Completes required maintenance documentation.

Level 3

• $107,821.53 per year ($51.84/hr).
• All Level 2 requirements.
• Extensive wagon maintenance experience.
• Ability to handle complex diagnostics and system upgrades.
• Ability to mentor and support other team members where required.

The successful applicant will be classified at the appropriate level based on qualifications, skills and experience.

What We Can Offer

• Paid parental leave.
• Career development and growth opportunities.
• Novated leasing.
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and family members.
• Corporate uniform and PPE provided.
• Be a part of a close-knit and supportive team.

Our team are recognised, acknowledged, and rewarded for the amazing work they do. Apply now, to start your career with Watco Australia!

Watco Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to maintaining, growing and supporting our diverse and inclusive culture, by seeking and promoting diversity. We welcome and encourage applications from diverse community groups and ages including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, women, and other diversity groups.