Timetable planners are analytical and enjoy solving problems. They juggle many priorities and use multiple sources of data to create safe and efficient plans to move freight and people on the rail network. They have keen attention to detail and plan every train movement carefully.

Timetable planners unlock the potential of the railway network. They consider maintenance schedules, freight customer bookings, passenger numbers, staff availability, rigorous rules and many more factors to schedule trains safely and efficiently. Often timetable planners undertake complex capacity analysis and network optimisation using complex data sets to create virtual models of train movements. These can be used to plan daily train schedules, or to test scenarios to establish maximum capacities and improve the resilience of our rail networks.

Timetable planners typically work in centralised train operation centres. They work in a team (often in different locations) to plan the movement of trains across one or more networks. Most timetable planners work in major cities but some work in regional or remote locations.

For many roles you won’t need previous experience in timetable planning, however experience in the rail industry and knowledge of rail networks, tracks and stations is desirable. Experience using specialised train and track planning software is also desirable. You will also need a strong understanding of safeworking principles and practices. Some employers may only employ timetable planners who have completed a Certificate III in Transport and Distribution – Train Planning. Or they may help you to complete this qualification once you commence the role.