Transnet Freight Rail, a division of Transnet, is offering an exciting career opportunity for individuals looking to join the rail industry. The organization is seeking motivated candidates to fill the position of Trainee Train Assistant at its Beaufort West location.
This role is ideal for individuals who have a strong sense of responsibility, enjoy working in a structured environment, and are eager to contribute to the safe and efficient transportation of freight and passengers.
Trainee Train Assistant Role Overview
The Trainee Train Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Train Driver to ensure the smooth operation of locomotives. Their primary responsibility is to assist in the safe and efficient handling of different types of trains, including airbrake, vacuum, high-speed, heavy-haul, and passenger trains. By doing so, they contribute to ensuring that freight and cargo reach their destination safely, on time, and in good condition.
This position provides hands-on experience and structured training, preparing individuals for a long-term career in railway operations. Under the supervision of the Section Manager: Train Traffic, the trainee will receive practical and theoretical training to develop their competencies in train operations.
Key Responsibilities
The Trainee Train Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks throughout their shift. Their duties include:
1. Locomotive Preparation and Operations
- Reporting for duty at the designated workplace and receiving allocated tasks.
- Determining the assigned locomotive and preparing it accordingly.
- Obtaining and placing required equipment on the locomotive.
- Checking and supplementing necessary equipment.
- Cleaning the working area to maintain hygiene and safety standards.
- Assisting in starting up locomotives according to operational procedures.
- Conducting brake tests with the Train Driver.
- Coupling and dispatching locomotives.
2. Train Readiness and Compliance
- Performing pre-trip preparations for locomotives and the entire train before departure.
- Ensuring the train complies with roadworthiness, train working rules, and safety regulations.
- Attaching and detaching vehicles as per work orders in the absence of guard personnel.
- Mounting train indicators and telemeters where necessary.
- Conducting a thorough examination of the train before departure.
- Coordinating with the Train Driver to complete brake tests.
3. Shunting Activities
- Performing shunting operations in sidings and en route according to directives.
- Obtaining and executing work orders for the movement of trains.
- Placing and removing trucks as required.
- Updating vehicle lists and clearing loads and empty trucks at designated sidings.
4. Route Assistance and Train Safety
- Assisting the Train Driver during the journey to ensure safe movement.
- Comparing signal positions and displays with the Train Driver.
- Observing preceding trains and patrolling locomotives.
- Resetting locomotive trip outs when necessary.
- Monitoring the safe running of the train to prevent delays or damage.
- Providing assistance during emergency situations.
5. Administrative Duties
- Completing the Train Journal and submitting it to the Section Manager at the end of each shift.
- Ensuring accurate and timely reporting of any incidents, deviations, or challenges encountered during the route.
Qualifications and Experience Required
Educational Requirements
- Grade 12 certificate, with Pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science as subjects.
Physical and Medical Requirements
- Willingness to undergo medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments during the selection process and every 12 months thereafter.
- Must meet physical requirements, including hearing, vision, mental, and general fitness.
- Candidates must be at least 1.6m tall.
- Must have psychomotor ability, which will be assessed using the Vienna Testing System (VTS).
- Must be capable of carrying heavy objects.
Training and Certification
- Candidates must be willing to complete both theoretical and practical training to qualify as a certified Train Assistant.
- Successful completion of the Train Assistant Duties Certificate is required before being allowed to work independently.
Knowledge and Competencies Required
Candidates must be familiar with:
- Communication systems used in railway operations.
- Depot layout, locomotive classes, and equipment.
- Train working rules and safety procedures.
- Health and Safety Act 85.
- Shunting procedures and locomotive handling.
- Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).
- Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures.
They should also possess the following skills:
- Locomotive preparation and coupling/uncoupling.
- Observation and situational awareness.
- Time management and stress handling.
- Numerical reasoning and problem-solving.
- Spatial and depth perception skills.
- Judgment, reasoning, and concentration.
Employment Equity and Inclusion
Transnet Freight Rail is committed to employment equity and will prioritize candidates from designated groups in line with their Employment Equity Plan and organizational targets. The company encourages applications from individuals who meet the required criteria and who are passionate about working in the railway sector.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
- Hands-on training: Gain industry-specific knowledge and practical experience in train operations.
- Career development: The opportunity to qualify as a certified Train Assistant and progress within Transnet.
- Stable employment: Work for a reputable organization in South Africa’s transport sector.
- Competitive remuneration: Earn a structured salary while receiving training.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must ensure that their applications are submitted before the closing date of the advertisement. It is the responsibility of each candidate to verify that HR has received their application.
For more details, applicants can visit Transnet’s career portal or reach out to the HR department for clarification.
The Trainee Train Assistant role at Transnet Freight Rail is an excellent career opportunity for individuals passionate about rail transportation. This position provides structured training, practical experience, and a path toward career advancement. With its strong emphasis on safety, operational efficiency, and compliance, this role is crucial in ensuring smooth train operations across South Africa’s rail network.
If you meet the criteria and are eager to start a fulfilling career in railway transport, consider applying today!
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