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 our continual growth, we have an opening for a Field Service Technician (Locomotive Fitter) to join our team in Mackay, Queensland.
About the Role
As a Field Service Technician, you'll play a key role in keeping our locomotives safe, reliable, and ready for service. This is a hands-on role where you'll work on scheduled maintenance and respond to breakdowns, applying problem-solving skills to diagnose issues and get trains back on track quickly.
You'll work across electrical and mechanical systems by troubleshooting faults, replacing components, and performing system checks to OEM standards. Your work directly impacts the performance and reliability of our fleet. Travel within Queensland may be required for field service work and on-the-job training, so flexibility is important. Locomotive experience is not essential, as we provide on-the-job training and mentoring to help you succeed.
This is a permanent full-time role under our Enterprise Agreement (EA), classified at Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 depending on your skills and experience.
Classification and Pay
Under the Watco East Coast Maintenance and Rollingstock Enterprise Agreement 2025:
* Level 1: $73,578.87 per year ($35.37/hr)
* Level 2: $89,006.77 per year ($42.79/hr)
* Level 3: $103,674.55 per year ($49.84/hr)
Rates increase annually under the agreement with the next increase in March 2026.
What You'll Need
Level 1
* No trade qualification required.
* Labouring, blue-collar, or hands-on experience preferred.
* Willingness to learn and develop skills in locomotive maintenance.
Level 2
* Electrical trade with QLD licence or Cert III Mechanical/Fitter.
* Proven ability in maintenance and repairs.
* Ability to read schematics and follow safety procedures.
Level 3
* All Level 2 requirements plus extensive locomotive maintenance experience.
* Ability to handle complex diagnostics and system upgrades.
* Experience with EMD and/or GE locomotives desirable.
For all levels
* Valid 'C' class driver's licence (HR, forklift, dogman, rigger licences desirable).
* Commitment to safe work and compliance with rail safety rules.
What We Can Offer
* Paid Parental Leave.
* Competitive salary.
* Career development and growth opportunities.
* Novated Leasing.
* Employee Assistance Program for employees and family members.
* 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
Note: You may be required to be vaccinated against certain illnesses or diseases as a precondition of employment.
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.