Network Optimisation Lead

About ARTC

ARTC is among Australia’s largest rail network owners and plays a key role in keeping freight and passenger movement connected across the country. Each day, the organisation manages more than 415 trains across five states, 9,600 km of track, 39 worksites, and the lands of more than 50 First Nations. With major investment behind the expansion and modernisation of the network, ARTC is focused on building a rail system that is efficient, sustainable, and ready for the future.

About the Team

The Operations function supports a wide range of nationally important supply chains. Its network spans five states and 8,500 km, transporting bulk commodities, passengers, general freight, steel, and many consumer goods used for both import and export flows. The team operates in complex and demanding settings, including some of the busiest rail corridors in Australia, with a focus on safe, efficient, and sustainable outcomes for customers, stakeholders, and communities.

About the Opportunity

This role offers the chance to shape how Australia’s national rail network is planned and run through advanced modelling, simulation, and optimisation. The position is intended to move planning away from traditional methods and toward a more dynamic, data-led approach that improves network capacity, reliability, and customer service across one of the world’s largest rail systems.

As the Network Optimisation Lead, you will act as the organisation’s technical specialist for network modelling, simulation, and optimisation. You will guide the setup and ongoing refinement of RailSys and related tools to help unlock capacity and strengthen operational performance.

If you enjoy solving complex operational problems using data, simulation, and innovative thinking, this role is designed for you.

Responsibilities

• Direct the optimisation, simulation, and setup of RailSys and other advanced planning platforms across the ARTC network.
• Create dynamic planning, scheduling, and simulation models that enhance capacity, punctuality, and overall efficiency.
• Build and check physics-based simulation models to evaluate future operating scenarios and inform strategic decisions.
• Lead improvement work covering headway gains, train re-patterning, possession planning, and capacity analysis.
• Turn complex operational data into clear recommendations that strengthen planning outcomes.
• Support RailSys super users and planning teams with technical guidance while building capability across the organisation.
• Work closely with Operations, Network Performance, Engineering, and external partners to deliver optimisation initiatives across the business.
• Prepare business cases and strategic advice that support investment decisions and future capacity growth.

Requirements

• A tertiary qualification in Operations Research, Data Analytics, Logistics, Supply Chain, or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Substantial background in network capacity planning, scheduling, or optimisation in a complex operating environment.
• Strong capability in advanced simulation and optimisation tools such as RailSys, discrete-event simulation, and stochastic modelling.
• Hands-on experience with analytical tools including Python, R, SQL, and Power BI.
• Solid commercial judgement, with the ability to build business cases and influence senior stakeholders.
• Demonstrated success in leading change, improving processes, and implementing enterprise systems.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical modelling into practical business results.

What We Offer

• Flexible working arrangements can be discussed.
• Competitive pay package.
• Resources and support for health, wellbeing, and professional development.
• Novated leasing, plus access to discounts and support programs.
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program for employees and their immediate family members.

Culture and Additional Information

ARTC describes its culture as collaborative, inclusive, and focused on continuous improvement. Safety is positioned as the organisation’s highest priority, and the company emphasises providing a workplace where people can thrive. The organisation also invests in employee growth and development while working toward a future where rail is a preferred transport mode for a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Australia.

ARTC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Applicants will need to complete pre-employment criminal history, reference, and medical checks, which include drug and alcohol testing.

The closing date for applications is 22 July 2026. ARTC may advance applications before the advertised closing date.