Role Purpose

The Works Readiness Manager is accountable for ensuring that all aspects of project works—from initiation to execution—are fully prepared for safe and efficient delivery within a live rail environment. Acting as a key interface between project teams, engineering, operations, and maintenance, this role ensures that all readiness requirements are identified, planned, coordinated, and completed prior to the commencement of occupation works. The position plays a critical role in minimising operational disruption, upholding safety and Yarra Trams’ assurance standards, and supporting successful project outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the Works Readiness (WR) Framework, including risk matrix, gate process, templates, dashboards, and deliverables aligned with internal governance systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to confirm readiness at each project delivery stage.
• Facilitate weekly WR meetings, lead go/no-go decisions, and conduct progress reviews with stakeholders.
• Monitor and report WR status, highlighting risks and issues to project teams and executive leadership.
• Coordinate with Network Readiness Operations to optimize occupation scheduling and outcomes.
• Ensure all permits, approvals, isolations, and pre-work requirements are met and documented on time.
• Support execution phase and drive continuous improvement of WR processes, artifacts, and risk mitigation.

Qualifications

• Tertiary Qualifications in Engineering, Construction, Project Management or a related discipline
• Project management certification (e.g. PRINCE2, PMP) advantageous
• Formal training in Rail Safety, worksite protection, or access coordination desirable.

Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated experience in infrastructure project delivery within an operational rail or light rail environment 
• In-depth understanding of works planning, access and operational constraints in live transport networks 
• Strong knowledge of safety assurance, permit to work and access processes 
• Experience coordinating across engineering, construction, operations and safety functions 
• Familiarity with light rail systems, stakeholder management, and major works planning highly desirable