Trainee Shed Assistant

Company: Transnet SOC Ltd.

Location: Lydenburg, Mpumalanga

Job Type: Entry Level

Posted: 2026-02-18

About the Job

The Trainee Shed Assistant will support the Shedman in the safe and efficient shunting of locomotives within a designated area. The role involves maintaining a clean and safe environment, preparing locomotives for service, and assisting with all aspects of locomotive handling and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Keep locomotives and the fuelling area clean and safe for shunting operations.
• Assist the Shedman in allocating and delivering locomotives to train crews and maintenance staff according to schedules.
• Execute shunting movements following the Shedman’s instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Support the Shedman in ensuring the safety of locomotives and related equipment.
• Operate hand signals for locomotive placement where required.
• Maintain good housekeeping to keep the working area tidy after all tasks are completed.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions on locomotives, track, and overhead lines.
• Couple and uncouple locomotives, including buffers, air brakes, and jumper cables.
• Inspect fuel levels and refuel locomotives as needed.
• Operate points for shunting movements, ensuring correct alignment to prevent derailments.
• Secure stabled locomotives by applying hand brakes and placing scotches under wheels.
• Test auxiliary equipment to ensure proper operation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Grade 10 or equivalent.
• Minimum 6 years of experience in an operations environment.
• Willingness to undergo Shed Assistant training (theoretical and practical) to become certified for independent work.
• Prepared to participate in periodic medical surveillance and safety risk assessments (initially and every 12 months).

Competencies

Knowledge

• Yard and siding layout
• Breakdowns and section work
• Road and route knowledge
• Shunting procedures
• Locomotive classes and wagon types
• Integrated Train Plan
• Brake systems and train workings
• Vehicle Management policy
• Protective equipment and uniform policies
• Act 85 / 16 RSR legislation
• SANS 3004 (human factor)
• Internal HC policies and substance abuse procedures

Skills

• Attention to detail
• Planning and organizing
• Time management
• Interpersonal communication
• English literacy (written and spoken)
• Judgement and reasoning
• Numerical ability
• Observation and psychomotor skills
• Depth perception

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.

Application

To apply for this position, please visit the Transnet Talent Portal:

transnettalentportal.csod.com

Application Deadline: Open until filled.