Transnet invites unemployed South African youth to apply for the train assistant trainee programme 2026
Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026 – Railway Training & Job Opportunity
Are you looking to start a career in South Africa’s rail and freight industry? The Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026 offers hands-on railway training for individuals who want to gain practical experience in train operations and locomotive support.
Transnet SOC Ltd is inviting applications for its 2026 Train Assistant Trainee intake, designed to equip candidates with the technical skills, safety knowledge, and operational experience required to support Train Drivers in freight and passenger rail services.
Programme Overview
The Train Assistant Trainee Programme prepares candidates to assist Train Drivers in the safe and efficient handling of various train types, including:
- Airbrake trains
- Vacuum brake trains
- High-speed trains
- Heavy haul freight trains
- Passenger trains
Trainees play a vital role in ensuring that freight and cargo reach their destinations safely, on time, and in good condition—supporting reliable rail logistics and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Successful trainees will perform the following duties during shifts:
1. Locomotive Preparation & Start-Up
- Sign on duty at the designated depot
- Determine and prepare the allocated locomotive
- Obtain and place required equipment onboard
- Check and supplement prescribed safety equipment
- Clean working areas
- Assist with locomotive start-up procedures
- Conduct brake tests in conjunction with the Train Driver
- Couple and dispatch locomotives
2. Communication Equipment Preparation
- Collect radios, handsets, walkie-talkies, and telemeters
- Test and confirm communication equipment functionality
3. Pre-Trip Train Inspection & Safety Compliance
- Perform pre-departure locomotive and train inspections
- Attach or detach vehicles according to work orders (if guard personnel are absent)
- Mount telemeters and train indicators
- Complete vehicle lists and vacuum forms
- Conduct brake tests with the Train Drivers
- Ensure compliance with rail safety standards and operational rules
4. Shunting & Yard Operations
- Obtain and execute work orders
- Perform shunting, placing, and removing of wagons
- Update vehicle lists
- Manage loading and clearing of trucks at sidings
5. Enroute Train Support
- Monitor signal positions with the Train Driver
- Observe track and surrounding rail activity
- Reset locomotive trip-outs
- Ensure safe train movement
- Protect the train during incidents
- Assist in emergency situations
- Provide accurate and timely feedback to the Train Driver
6. Administrative Duties
- Complete and submit the Train Journal after every shift
- Assist with general railway administration
- Ensure accurate documentation for salary processing
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Grade 12 (Matric) with Pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science
- Minimum age of 21 years
- Minimum height of 1.6 metres
- Physically and medically fit (hearing, vision, mental fitness verified through medical assessments)
- Willing to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments (every 12 months)
- Psychomotor ability assessed via the Vienna Testing System (VTS)
- Ability to carry heavy objects
- Willing and able to complete theoretical and practical training
- Capable of obtaining official Train Assistant certification
SEE ALSO: ABSA Learnerships 2026
Why Apply for the Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026?
- Gain accredited railway training
- Build a long-term career in rail freight and passenger transport
- Receive structured theoretical and practical development
- Work within South Africa’s leading freight rail organisation
How to Apply
Click here to apply online for the Transnet Train Assistant Trainee Programme 2026