A rail fleet depot in the United Arab Emirates is seeking a skilled Lathe Operator to work in conjunction with the Fleet Foreman and other technicians, operating machines and equipment required to maintain and overhaul ER Freight Wheels supporting the wagon and locomotive fleet. The role also involves assisting the Fleet production team as required.
About the Role — Wheelshop & CNC Lathe Operations
Core Function: Operating machines and equipment to maintain and overhaul ER Freight Wheels
Team Structure: Working in conjunction with the Fleet Foreman and other technicians
Maintenance Documentation: Recording all work in the maintenance management system
Continuous Improvement: Sharing best practice and engaging in versatility training
Career Opportunity & Skill Growth
Versatility Training: Opportunities to add competences in mechanical, electrical, NDT, welding and lifting equipment
24/7 Operation: Work a shift roster covering round-the-clock rail fleet maintenance
Skill Development: Build specialized wheel management and CNC lathe expertise
Career Growth: Provide training and guidance to other Fleet technicians as you advance
Position Overview
This Lathe Operator role involves preparing for and completing tasks per laid-down specifications and maintenance instructions, recording all work in the maintenance management system, carrying out fault finding and repair work on machines, operating and servicing depot plant and equipment, providing training and guidance to other Fleet technicians, and engaging in continuous improvement and versatility training to build additional technical competences.
Why This Role Matters: As a Lathe Operator in the wheelshop, you keep the wagon and locomotive fleet running safely and reliably through precise wheel maintenance and overhaul work, apply CNC lathe skills to demanding rail engineering tasks, contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and shared best practice, build versatile technical skills across mechanical, electrical and NDT disciplines, and take on real responsibility for your own safety and that of your team.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operation & Maintenance
- Prepare for and complete tasks per specifications, standards and maintenance instructions as directed by the Foreman
- Carry out fault finding and repair work on machines as required
- Operate and service depot plant and equipment
Documentation & Reporting
- Ensure all work is recorded in the maintenance management system and relevant work orders signed for
- Collect and record statistical data as required
Team Support & Development
- Provide training and guidance to other Fleet technicians
- Engage in and maintain competence skills in relation to wheel management
- Engage in versatility training to add competences such as mechanical, electrical, NDT, welding and lifting equipment operation
- Be part of a team and encourage team working
Continuous Improvement & Safety
- Engage in a Continuous Improvement culture, fully participating in sharing best practice
- Protect and maintain the depot’s tools and equipment in serviceable condition
- Work a shift roster to cover a 24/7 operation
- Report unsafe acts and unserviceable equipment promptly
- Be responsible for your own and others’ safety
Qualifications & Requirements
Academic Qualifications
- A good level of basic education
Professional Qualifications
- Apprentice trained and/or relevant engineering qualifications or experience
Experience Requirements
- Demonstrated experience in Wheelshop or other CNC lathe equipment
- Rolling stock maintenance experience desirable
- Experience working in harsh environments
- Proven ability to work under pressure
- Ability to work in a team and on an individual basis
Other Skills
- English as first language or advanced level of written and verbal skill
- Good communication skills
- Basic computer skills
- Analytical skills for problem solving
About This Rail Fleet Maintenance Environment
This role sits within a rail fleet depot in the United Arab Emirates, where wheelshop operations directly support the safety and reliability of the wagon and locomotive fleet. Working closely with the Fleet Foreman and wider technician team, the Lathe Operator contributes to a strong continuous improvement culture, structured maintenance documentation, and a genuine focus on team safety across a 24/7 operation.
Career Excellence: Build specialized CNC lathe and wheelshop expertise within the UAE’s rail engineering sector.
Who Should Apply?
- Apprentice-Trained Engineers: With CNC lathe or wheelshop experience
- Rolling Stock Maintenance Technicians: Familiar with rail wagon and locomotive fleets
- Versatile Technical Professionals: Open to mechanical, electrical, NDT and welding cross-training
- Shift-Based Workers: Available for 24/7 rail depot operations
- Safety-Conscious Team Players: Comfortable working under pressure in harsh environments
Recently Opening Job👇
