Trainee Train Assistant

Company: Transnet SOC Ltd.

Location: Belfast, Mpumalanga

Posted: 2026-02-17

About the Role

The Trainee Train Assistant will support the Train Driver in safely and efficiently operating all types of trains and locomotives, including airbrake, vacuum, high‑speed, heavy haul, and passenger services. The goal is to ensure freight and cargo reach their destinations on time and in good condition, meeting customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Sign on duty and receive assigned tasks for the shift.
• Select and prepare the appropriate locomotive.
• Place and check all required equipment on the locomotive.
• Clean the working area and assist with locomotive start‑up.
• Assist with brake tests and coupling/uncoupling operations.
• Prepare communication equipment (radios, handsets, walkie‑talkies, telemeters).
• Perform pre‑trip checks to ensure roadworthiness and safety compliance.
• Attach or detach vehicles as per work orders, including mounting telemeters and completing vehicle lists.
• Execute shunting activities in sidings and along routes, updating vehicle lists and clearing loads.
• Support the Train Driver en route, ensuring safe movement of the train and preventing delays or damage.
• Compare signal positions verbally with the driver and observe other trains.
• Reset locomotive trip‑outs and monitor safe running of the train.
• Assist during emergencies and protect the train during incidents.
• Provide timely feedback to the Train Driver on incidents or deviations.
• Complete the Train Journal and submit it to the Section Manager after each shift.

Qualifications & Experience

Educational Requirements

Grade 12 with pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science.

Other Requirements

• Undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioural risk assessments during selection and every 12 months.
• Meet physical, hearing, vision, and mental fitness standards.
• Minimum age of 21 years for train driver or train control duties.

Minimum Trainee Pre‑Requisites

• Height of at least 1.6 m.
• Psychomotor ability assessed via Vienna Testing System (VTS).
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects.

Functional Training

Successful completion of theoretical and practical Train Assistant duties, leading to certification for independent work.

Competencies

Knowledge

• Communication systems
• Depot layout
• Locomotive classes and equipment
• Route and road information
• Sections, stations, and sidings
• Signing‑on procedures
• Train working rules
• Trip reporting
• Yard and siding layout
• General TFR policies
• Shunting procedures
• Locomotive hauling capacities and constraints
• Health and Safety Act 85
• First aid
• Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)
• SANS 3004 (Human Factors)
• HC policies and procedures
• Train service/ITP
• Training workings
• Substance abuse policy and procedures

Skills

• Locomotive coupling and uncoupling
• Locomotive preparation (electrical and diesel)
• Observation and shunting movement
• Train handling
• Time management
• Stress handling
• Assessment and literacy
• Communication and judgement
• Reasoning and psychomotor skills
• Concentration and spatial awareness
• Depth perception and numerical skills
• Problem solving
• Electrical and diesel locomotive driving

Attributes

• Stress handling
• Self‑management
• Safety conscious
• Punctuality
• Willingness to work shifts
• Results oriented

Equity Statement

Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.

Disclaimer

If you have not heard from Transnet within 90 days, please consider your application unsuccessful. Transnet, its employees or representatives never ask for a fee from job seekers. Any such requests are fraudulent. Please report any suspicious activities to the Transnet anti‑fraud line at 0800 003 056 or email [email protected].

Application

Open until filled.

To apply, visit the Transnet Talent Portal: transnettalentportal.csod.com.