Trainee Train Assistant

Job Opportunity: Trainee Train Assistant

Closing Date: Not specified
Reference Number: req2569
Location: Belfast, South Africa
Employer: Transnet Freight Rail
Job Type: Trainee

Position Purpose

Assist the Train Driver in safely and efficiently handling trains, ensuring freight/cargo reaches its destination on time and in good condition.

Key Responsibilities

Sign on duty & prepare locomotives:
- Allocate duties for the shift.
- Prepare locomotives, perform brake tests, and clean the working area.
Prepare communication equipment:
- Obtain and check functionality of radios, walkie-talkies, and telemeters.
Ensure train roadworthiness:
- Attach/detach vehicles, mount train indicators, complete vehicle lists, and conduct brake tests.
Execute shunting activities:
- Follow work orders for placing/removing trucks.
- Update vehicle lists and ensure correct truck positioning.
Assist train movement en route:
- Compare signal positions with the train driver.
- Observe locomotives, reset trip outs, and ensure safe train running.
- Provide protection during incidents and emergencies.
Ensure compliance with safety standards.
Report incidents & deviations to the Train Driver.
Complete administration duties:
- Submit train journal after every shift for salary processing.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

Education: Grade 12 with Pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science.
Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years old (as per SANS 3000, par 6.2.6.8).
Height Requirement: Minimum of 1.6m tall.
Medical & Fitness Requirements:
- Must pass medical tests (hearing, vision, mental fitness).
- Must be physically fit to carry heavy objects.
- Must undergo Vienna Testing System (VTS) psychomotor ability assessment.
Training Commitment:
- Willing to complete theoretical & practical training for Train Assistant certification.

Competencies & Skills Required

✅ Knowledge of:

Communication systems, depot layout, locomotive types, train working rules.
Shunting procedures, route/road sections, yard layout, train service procedures.
Health & Safety Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), first aid.

✅ Skills Required:

Locomotive coupling/uncoupling, train handling, shunting movements.
Time management, problem-solving, reasoning, spatial awareness.
Communication, observation, concentration, psychomotor skills.

✅ Attributes:

Stress management, self-discipline, safety-conscious, punctuality.
Willingness to work shifts, results-driven attitude.

Employment Equity Statement

Preference will be given to qualified applicants from designated groups, per the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan & Targets.

Why Join Transnet?

🚂 Gain hands-on experience in railway operations.
🚂 Competitive training & development opportunities.
🚂 Secure a career with a leading freight rail company.

Apply Now!

Click here to apply

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