Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026

Transnet invites suitable unemployed individuals across South Africa to apply for their Train Assistant Trainee Programme

Transnet is offering a Train Assistant Trainee Programme aimed at equipping individuals with the skills and practical experience needed to support train operations safely and efficiently. The Trainees will assist the Train Driver in the safe and efficient driving/handling of all different types of trains/locomotive consists (airbrake, vacuum, high speed, heavy haul and passengers) to ensure that the customers freight/cargo reaches its destination in good condition, on time, in order to enable the organisation to satisfy the customers' needs.

• Sign on duty at designated workplace and be allocated duties to be performed for the duration of the shift:
• Obtain and place equipment on locomotive.
• Check and supplement prescribed equipment.
• Clean working area.
• Assist with starting up of locomotive as prescribed assist with locomotive brake tests.
• Despatch locomotive.
• Determine which locomotive to be prepared.
• Grade 12 with pure Mathematics or Physical Science.
• Be prepared to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioural risk assessments during the selection process and every 12 months.
• Physical hearing, vision, mental, fitness (to be verified through medical tests and related safety behavioural risk assessments).
• The operator shall not allow employees younger than 21 years of age to undertake Train driver or train control duties.
• The candidate should be a minimum of 1.6m tall.
• Psychomotor ability (to be assessed through Vienna Testing System (VTS standards .
• Ability to carry heavy objects.
• Be prepared to successfully undergo Train Assistant duties (theoretical and practical) so as to be certified to work independently as a Train Assistant.
• Be willing, prepared and capable to obtain a Train Assistant duties certificate (theoretical and practical) successfully and be certified to work independently as Train Assistant.