Transnet Learnerships 2026: Train Assistant, Engineering & Port Operations

Key Takeaways: The Logistics Giant

• The Big Three: Transnet recruits mainly for Freight Rail (TFR), Engineering (TE), and Port Terminals (TPT).
• The #1 Role: The Trainee Train Assistant is the most sought-after learnership. It requires Pure Maths and Physical Science (Math Lit is usually rejected).
• The Physicals: For rail jobs, you must be at least 1.6m tall and have perfect vision/hearing (No color blindness).
• The “Vienna Test”: This is a specialized video-game-like test to check your hand-eye coordination. You cannot study for it, but you must pass it to work on trains.
• Scam Alert: Transnet NEVER advertises on Gmail or asks for money. If the ad says “Fax CV,” it is a scam.

If Eskom powers the country, Transnet moves it. As the owner of South Africa’s railways, ports, and pipelines, Transnet is a massive employer of technical youth.

However, getting into Transnet is different from other companies. They don’t just care about your marks; they care about your Psychomotor Skills (reaction time) and your physical health. A brilliant student who is color-blind cannot drive a train.

In 2026, Transnet is aggressively recruiting for its “School of Rail” and “School of Engineering.” Here is how to apply and what you need to qualify.

1. The Most Popular: Trainee Train Assistant (TFR)

This is the entry point to becoming a Train Driver.

• What you do: You assist the driver in the locomotive, check signals, help with braking tests, and ensure the safety of the cargo.
• Stipend: Approx. R4,500 – R6,000 during training.
• Duration: 12–18 Months.

Requirements (Strict):

1. Grade 12 (Matric):
   • Must have Pure Mathematics (Not Math Lit).
   • Must have Physical Science.
   • Note: Some intakes accept Math Lit if you have N3 Maths, but this is rare.
2. Height: Minimum 1.6m (You need to reach controls).
3. Vision: Perfect color perception (Red/Green signal differentiation).
4. Age: Usually 21 – 35 (Legislation often requires you to be 21 to undertake train duties).

2. Transnet Engineering (Apprenticeships)

This is for the “Fixers.” Transnet Engineering builds and repairs the trains and wagons.

• Trades Available:
  • Diesel Electrical Fitter: Maintaining locomotives.
  • Millwright: The “super trade” (Electrical + Mechanical).
  • Welder: Fixing wagons and rails.
  • Armature Winder: Fixing electric motors.
• Requirements:
  • N3 Certificate with Maths and Engineering Science.
  • OR Matric with Pure Maths and Science.
• Outcome: You eventually take a Trade Test to become a qualified Artisan (Red Seal).

3. Transnet Port Terminals (TPT)

These jobs are located in Durban, Cape Town, Saldanha, and Gqeberha (PE).

• Roles:
  • Cargo Coordinator: Managing containers.
  • Operator (Lifting Equipment): Driving the massive cranes (Straddle Carriers/Rubber Tyred Gantries).
• Requirements:
  • Grade 12.
  • Driver’s License (Code 10/14) is often essential for equipment operators.
  • Physical Fitness: You must be able to climb heights (cranes).

4. The “Vienna Test” (Psychomotor Assessment)

If you apply for any “Operations” role (Train Assistant or Crane Driver), you will be invited to a testing center to do the Vienna Test.

• What is it? It is a computerized test that looks like a retro video game. You sit with specialized pedals and a joystick.
• What it measures:
  • Reaction Time: How fast you hit the brake when a red light appears.
  • Concentration: Can you focus on a boring screen for 30 minutes without losing attention?
  • Multi-tasking: Can you listen to a sound while watching a light?
• How to prepare: You cannot study for it. However, getting a good night’s sleep and being calm is essential. If you fail this, you cannot be employed in operations.

5. How to Apply (The ONLY Way)

Transnet has moved to a fully digital e-Recruitment Portal. Paper CVs are thrown away.

Step 1: Go to the Official Portal

• URL: www.transnet.net > Click on “Careers”.
• Direct Portal: Often hosted at transnet.net/Career/Pages/Career.aspx.

Step 2: Register

• You must create a profile (Email + Password).
• Upload your CV, ID, and Matric/N3 Certificate (PDF format).

Step 3: Search

• Search by “Operating Division” (e.g., Freight Rail) or Location.
• Tip: Transnet prioritizes locals. If you live in Richards Bay, apply for Richards Bay jobs. Do not apply for a job in Kimura (Northern Cape) unless you are willing to move at your own cost.

6. Graduate Programmes (Young Professionals)

If you have a Degree or Diploma (S4), look for the “Young Professional in Training (YPT)” programme.

• Fields: Logistics, Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Accounting.
• Duration: 24 Months.
• Pay: Market-related salary (higher than learnership stipend).
• Application: Usually opens in August/September for the following year.

7. Scam Alert: The “Fax 086” Trap

Transnet is the #1 target for recruitment scams.

How to spot a fake Transnet Ad:

1. The Email: Legitimate emails end in @transnet.net. Fakes use @transnet-recruitment.com or @gmail.com or @webmail.co.za.
2. The Fax: Transnet NEVER asks you to fax a CV to an 086 number.
3. The Money: They will ask for R200 for a “background check” or “uniform deposit” via Pep/E-wallet. Transnet is 100% FREE.
4. The Speed: If they offer you the job without an interview or medical check, it is a scam.

Summary: Safety First

Transnet is a safety-critical environment. They don’t hire you because you have 7 Distinctions; they hire you because you are disciplined, sober, and physically fit.

Action Plan:

1. Check your Eyes: Go to a clinic and check for color blindness. If you are color blind, do not apply for Train Assistant (you will fail the medical). Apply for Admin/HR instead.
2. Register Online: Create your profile on the Transnet Career Portal today so you are ready when vacancies drop.
3. Scan your License: If you want to work at the Ports, get your Code 10/14 license renewed and scanned.

Disclaimer: Medical and physical requirements are strict regulations set by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). Transnet has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol.