URGENT: Trainee Train Assistant – Transnet Freight Rail Postmasburg

Position Purpose / Trainee Train Assistant

Transnet Freight Rail is South Africa’s largest rail freight operator, moving over 200 million tons of cargo annually. The URGENT Trainee Train Assistant vacancy at Postmasburg requires candidates who can assist Train Drivers in safe and efficient handling of airbrake, vacuum, high speed, heavy haul and passenger trains. Your role ensures customer freight reaches destination in good condition and on time. Based in Postmasburg, Northern Cape, this trainee position offers full certification training. First preference given to Northern Cape residents – submit proof of residence.

Key Duties & Responsibilities / Trainee Train Assistant

• Sign On & Locomotive Prep: Sign on duty, determine locomotive, obtain equipment, check and supplement prescribed items, clean working area, assist with locomotive start-up and brake tests, couple and despatch locomotive.
• Communication Equipment: Obtain and check radios, handsets, walkie talkies and telemeters for functionality before departure.
• Pre-Trip Safety Checks: Perform pre-trip preparation of locomotives and whole train. Attach/detach vehicles per works order, mount telemeters, complete vehicle list and vacuum form, mount train indicators, examine train and conduct brake tests with driver.
• Shunting & Operations: Execute shunting activities in sidings and enroute. Obtain works orders, place/remove trucks, update vehicle lists, place and clear load/empty trucks at sidings.
• Enroute Safety: Assist driver enroute for safe movement. Compare signal positions, observe trains, reset locomotive trip outs, protect train during incidents and assist during emergencies.
• Administration: Comply with safety standards, provide feedback on incidents, complete train journal and submit to Section Manager after each shift for salary processing.

Minimum Requirements -Trainee Train Assistant

Education: Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science – COMPULSORY

Age: Must be 21 years or older as per SANS 3000 safety regulations

Physical: Minimum height 1.6m. Pass medical surveillance including hearing, vision, mental fitness every 12 months. Must pass Vienna Testing System psychomotor assessment and be able to carry heavy objects.

Training: Must complete theoretical and practical Train Assistant certification to work independently.

Residence: FIRST PREFERENCE to Northern Cape applicants. Submit proof of residence.

Skills & Knowledge / Trainee Train Assistant

Knowledge: Communication systems, depot layout, locomotive classes, train working rules, shunting procedures, Health & Safety Act 85, First Aid, BCEA, SANS 3004, substance abuse policies.

Skills: Locomotive coupling, electrical/diesel prep, observation, shunting, train handling, time management, stress handling, communication, judgement, psychomotor skills, concentration, problem solving.

Attributes: Safety conscious, punctual, willing to work shifts, results orientated, self-management.

Why Apply URGENTLY?

Transnet offers trainee-to-permanent career path, medical aid, pension fund and housing benefits. Postmasburg is a key heavy haul corridor with overtime opportunities. Training is fully funded. This is a rare entry-level rail job for Grade 12 Maths/Science candidates. Closing date 06 July 2026 – do not delay application.

How to Apply Before 06 July 2026

Submit application with CV, Grade 12 certificate, ID copy and proof of Northern Cape residence if applicable to Transnet careers portal using reference req5037.

DEADLINE: 06 July 2026. Late applications rejected. If no response within 90 days, consider application unsuccessful.