Rail Systems Technician Apprentice (Signals)

Join The Rail Systems Development Program (RSDP)

Looking for a new career? Love working indoors and outdoors?

Want the opportunity to earn while you complete a nationally recognised apprenticeship?

Dive into this fantastic opportunity to join the booming rail industry! Learn to maintain PTA’s cutting-edge signals systems and equipment to the highest standards.

About this apprenticeship opportunity

Join our Rail Systems Development Program (RSDP) and embark on a journey to become a qualified rail signal technician. Gain both a nationally recognised electrical fitter's trade qualification and a Western Australian electrical fitter's-only licence, all while working hands-on with the Public Transport Authority’s advanced signalling systems. This program offers practical experience in routine and breakdown maintenance across Perth’s metropolitan rail network.

As a Signals Apprentice, you will be trained to maintain and fault find various systems across the

PTAs metropolitan rail passenger carrying network. By the end of your apprenticeship and additional PTA technical signals training, you will:

• Master maintenance and fault finding on power signalling systems, protected level crossings, and associated equipment.
• Gain expertise in fault rectification and field maintenance on Point Operating Equipment, Signalling Interlocking and Remote Control, Wayside Signalling Equipment, including Automatic Train Protection.
• Skillfully use hand and power tools, specialist tools, and relevant test instruments.
• Perform general and electrical calculations and read and interpret technical drawings and plans.
• Analyse and rectify faults on complex electrical systems.

You will also undertake a range of on-the-job and off-the-job training. Upon successful completion of the Program, apprentices will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification (Certificate III Electrical Fitting) and may be eligible for fixed-term or permanent Signals Technician opportunities with the Public Transport Authority of WA.

We currently have three full-time Apprentice Signal Technician Perth-based opportunities available on the Program, which is scheduled to commence in November 2026. This is a pool recruitment process where suitable applicants will be placed in a pool from which appointments will be made within the next six (6) months. Offers may be made on a fixed-term basis for a period of four years with possible extension and/or permanency.

To be eligible for this apprenticeship, you must be either an Australian Citizen, have Permanent Residency status or hold a current visa with permanent working rights in Australia.

About you

What do I need to become an Apprentice Signals Technician?

This is a fantastic opportunity for those interested in starting a career in the rail industry. As an Apprentice Signals Technician, you will be:

• Mechanically minded
• A good communicator and team player
• Committed to safety and have a strong desire to learn
• Accurate, with good attention to detail
• Able to use hand and power tools, machinery and equipment, and possess sound numeracy and literacy skills
• Willing to work shift work (including day, afternoon, and night shifts) and unsociable/irregular hours (including weekends from time to time)
• Comfortable working at heights and within confined spaces.

You will also have:

• A current unrestricted Western Australian ‘C’ Class Driver’s licence
• Successfully completed a minimum of Year 10 or equivalent

The Job Description Form, FAQs, and Job Information Package provide further details about the duties and selection criteria relevant to this opportunity.

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.

You can expect

• Opportunities to grow through personal development and training career pathways.
• Health and wellbeing programs
• Subsidised PPE and spectacles
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to join our Social Club offering savings and benefits all year-round

These are full-time, fixed-term positions for a period of four years with the possibility of extension and/or permanency on successful completion of the apprenticeship development program.

Applicants found suitable through this selection process may also be considered for other similar roles and will be placed in a pool from which similar apprenticeship appointments may be made within the next 6 months.

The PTA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages women, people with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and persons from culturally diverse backgrounds to apply.

Interested and want to know more?

Please refer to the attached Job Description Form (JDF) and Job Application Package for full details about the position, including any specific requirements relevant to appointment.

Please contact: Paul Lupton, Workplace Trainer and Assessor - Signals on (08) 9326 2721 for more 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 [email protected].

How to apply?

To apply for the Program:

1. Download and complete the attached Application Form

• Completed Application Form
• Current resume including two work-related referees
• Evidence of your current unrestricted WA ‘C’ Class Driver’s Licence

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.

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 may 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 prior to commencement