As a Train Assistant Intern at Transnet, you will play a crucial role in assisting the Train Driver in the safe and efficient handling of various types of trains and locomotives. This includes airbrake, vacuum, high-speed, heavy haul, and passenger trains. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure that freight and cargo reach their destinations on time and in good condition, thereby supporting the organization’s goal of meeting customer needs effectively.
- Locomotive Preparation:
- Determine the appropriate locomotive for the task based on requirements.
- Obtain and place necessary equipment on the locomotive.
- Check and supplement prescribed equipment as needed.
- Clean the working area to maintain a safe and organized environment.
- Locomotive Operations:
- Assist with starting up the locomotive according to prescribed procedures.
- Conduct locomotive brake tests to ensure operational safety.
- Couple locomotives and prepare them for departure.
- Sign on duty and dispatch locomotives as per operational protocols.
- Communication Equipment Management:
- Prepare and ensure functionality of communication equipment, including radios, handsets, walkie-talkies, and telemeters when applicable.
- Mount telemeters and check their operation if necessary.
- Pre-Trip and Safety Checks:
- Perform pre-trip preparation of locomotives and trains to adhere to roadworthiness and safety standards.
- Attach or detach vehicles based on works orders, especially in the absence of yard personnel.
- Complete vehicle lists and vacuum forms, and mount train indicators.
- Inspection and Testing:
- Examine the train thoroughly before departure.
- Conduct brake tests in collaboration with the train driver.
- Execute shunting activities in sidings and en route to enhance safe working procedures.
- Shunting and Handling:
- Obtain works orders and perform shunting, placing, and removing trucks according to the orders.
- Place and clear load/empty trucks at siding locations as required.
- Grade 12 with pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science.
- Be prepared to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments during the selection process and annually thereafter.
- Maintain physical fitness, including hearing, vision, and mental health, as verified through medical tests and safety behavioral risk assessments.
- Must be at least 1.6 meters tall.
- Psychomotor ability to be assessed through the Vienna Testing System (VTS) standard.
- Ability to carry heavy objects as part of the job requirements.
- Successful completion of theoretical and practical Train Assistant duties is required to work independently.
- Willingness to obtain and maintain a Train Assistant duties certificate through successful completion of required training.
- Comprehensive Training:
- Receive extensive theoretical and practical training to ensure you are fully equipped to perform Train Assistant duties independently.
- Gain hands-on experience in handling different types of trains and locomotives, including airbrake, vacuum, high-speed, heavy haul, and passenger trains.
- Professional Development:
- Develop critical skills in train operation and safety protocols.
- Opportunity to learn from experienced train drivers and industry professionals.
- Enhance your psychomotor abilities and technical skills through practical application.
- Health and Wellness:
- Access to regular medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments to ensure your physical and mental well-being.
- Support for maintaining fitness levels required for the role, including hearing, vision, and overall physical fitness.
- Career Advancement:
- Potential to secure a permanent position within Transnet upon successful completion of the internship and obtaining the Train Assistant duties certificate.
- Gain valuable experience that can be leveraged for future roles within the railway industry or related fields.
- Work Environment:
- Opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- Contribute to a team that values safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Candidates who meet the qualifications and are eager to gain hands-on experience in the railway industry are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will receive extensive training and certification to perform Train Assistant duties independently.
Transnet is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.