Operational Readiness Lead

Operational Readiness Lead Location: NSW (any location) | Work Type: Permanent / Hybrid with minimal travel to regional NSW About Inland Rail Inland Rail Pty Ltd is delivering a 1,600km freight line that is transforming how goods are moved around Australia. When fully operational, Inland Rail will connect Melbourne to Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. As one of the largest infrastructure projects in Australia, Inland Rail is helping to address the nation’s future freight needs and meet the demands of our growing population. Delivering Inland Rail will help shift more goods onto rail which means safer, less congested roads and fewer emissions and a more resilient and sustainable national freight network. About the opportunity Inland Rail is seeking an Operational Readiness Lead to oversee operational readiness and completions across enhancement and greenfield delivery packages between Albury and Narromine. In this role, you'll lead the coordination of project phase gates, asset management, and quality assurance activities, ensuring alignment with Inland Rail and ARTC standards. You'll work across multiple technical disciplines, liaising with internal and external stakeholders to track deliverables, support audits, and ensure smooth commissioning and handover. Key Responsibilities Lead interface coordination for asset management and quality across delivery packages Manage phase gate documentation and reporting Review contractor submissions for operational readiness and compliance Support configuration change management and continuous improvement Conduct site inspections and contribute to audit and compliance processes About you To succeed in this role, you will demonstrate strong negotiation and liaison skills across Inland Rail & ARTC teams, ensuring timely delivery that meets cost and quality standards. You will hold yourself to high standards of excellence. Qualifications and Experience Proven experience in asset management, operational readiness, and configuration control within a rail or infrastructure environment Awareness of work health and safety principles and relevant rail safety legislation Strong organisational, communication, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to work confidently across multidisciplinary teams A valid Class C Driver's Licence Proficiency with asset management systems such as Ellipse (Desirable) Advanced knowledge of railway renewals and/or construction (Desirable) What you'll be joining You will join one of the largest infrastructure programs in Australia. This project will generate thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in local investment, boosting regional economies and communities along the alignment. Inland Rail is proud to have over 40% female representation and aims to increase diversity. Inland Rail offers an Agile working environment and flexible working conditions. Our Organisation and Culture The values that drive us incorporate Collaboration, Accountability, Respect and Excellence. We welcome like-minded individuals who value our culture. Inland Rail is proud to be an equal opportunity and an affirmative action employer. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates to apply. All employment is decided based on suitability to the role, cultural fit, merit, and business needs. Apply Now If this opportunity sounds like the challenge you have been looking for, please apply online today. As part of the application process, you will be required to undergo pre‑employment criminal history, reference and medical checks, including drug and alcohol testing. Inland Rail is a drug and alcohol‑free working environment. Applications are reviewed from point of advertising, so don't delay. #J-18808-Ljbffr