Transnet SOC Ltd
Durban, home to Africa’s busiest port, is vital to South Africa’s logistics network. Transnet is hiring General Workers to support port, rail and freight activities. These entry-level jobs come with training for all applicants.
Durban is a key port and economic hub within KwaZulu-Natal, serving as a major center for trade and logistics in South Africa. Transnet plays a vital role in supporting the city through its port operations, rail networks, and container terminals.
Transnet maintains a strong presence in Durban, with major facilities supporting the city’s role as a key port and logistics hub in KwaZulu-Natal. Some key sites include:
- Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) in Durban: Manages cargo handling at South Africa’s largest port for trade and shipping.
- Durban Rail Depot: Supports rail logistics and freight operations.
- Durban Container Terminals: Handles container logistics for imports and exports.
These facilities require a large number of general workers for day-to-day operations, ranging from equipment handling to basic maintenance and cleaning.
List of Frequently Available Positions
General worker roles at Transnet in Durban are entry-level and focus on supporting freight and logistics operations. Based on vacancy announcements from Indeed, Jooble, and company updates as of 2025, common positions include:
General Worker (Freight Rail):
Description: Assists with loading/unloading cargo, track maintenance, and yard operations in Durban depots.
Key Tasks: Handle materials, clean work areas, support equipment checks.
Career Path: Advance to track maintainer or logistics assistant.
Terminal General Worker:
Description: Supports cargo handling and terminal ad hoc duties at Durban’s port and container terminals.
Key Tasks: Open/close twist locks on containers, assist with offloading, ensure site safety.
Career Path: Progress to forklift operator or supervisor.
Maintenance General Worker:
Description: Aids in basic rolling stock and infrastructure upkeep at Transnet Engineering facilities in Durban.
Key Tasks: Perform unskilled tasks like derusting equipment, basic assembly support.
Career Path: Move to trade assistant or semi-skilled artisan roles.
Pipeline General Worker:
Description: Assists with pipeline inspections and support in Durban’s fuel/gas transport networks.
Key Tasks: Manual labor for site preparation, material handling, basic monitoring.
Career Path: Develop into operations support or technician aide.
Yard Laborer:
Description: Performs general labor in rail yards, including shunting support and cleanup in Durban.
Key Tasks: Assist with wagon coupling, debris removal, safety patrols.
Career Path: Evolve to shunter or safety officer.
Employee Salaries and Benefits
Salaries for general worker roles at Transnet in Durban range from ZAR 84,000–150,000/year (ZAR 7,000–12,500/month), aligned with national bargaining council agreements for semi-skilled labor. These figures reflect 2025 Durban market conditions from jobservicehub.com and Payscale data, with potential for overtime premiums in shift-based rail and port operations.
Salaries are competitive, comparable to other major cities, but slightly lower than Gauteng’s due to KwaZulu-Natal’s economic scale, though supported by port and commercial activities.
| Job Type | Average Annual Salary (ZAR) | Average Monthly Salary (ZAR) | Additional Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Worker (Freight Rail) | 84,000–120,000 | 7,000–10,000 | Overtime, shift allowances |
| Terminal General Worker | 90,000–130,000 | 7,500–10,833 | Overtime, safety bonuses |
| Maintenance General Worker | 88,000–125,000 | 7,333–10,417 | Overtime, allowances |
| Pipeline General Worker | 86,000–122,000 | 7,167–10,167 | Overtime, hazard pay |
| Yard Laborer | 84,000–120,000 | 7,000–10,000 | Overtime, shift allowances |
Required Qualifications and Skills
Transnet general worker roles in Durban emphasize physical capability and reliability, with low barriers to entry for unemployed youth.
Education and Qualifications
- Grade 10 minimum; Grade 12 (Matric) preferred for all roles.
- Basic literacy and numeracy (NQF Level 2 or equivalent).
- No formal certifications required; safety or first aid training is an asset.
Experience
- No prior experience needed for entry-level positions; 6–12 months in manual labor advantageous.
- Exposure to logistics, construction, or farming strengthens applications.
Skills and Competencies
Apart from formal qualifications, Transnet looks for individuals with:
- Physical fitness and ability to perform manual labor.
- Basic communication skills (ability to communicate clearly in English; knowledge of local languages like isiZulu, English, Afrikaans is an advantage).
- Reliability and punctuality.
- Ability to follow safety protocols and instructions.
- Teamwork and adaptability in dynamic work environments.
Legal Requirements
- Valid South African ID document.
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement).
- Clear criminal record (background checks are mandatory for Transnet roles).
Documents Required for Application
- Updated CV/resume.
- Certified copy of your ID and Grade 10/12 (Matric) certificate.
- Proof of address (if required).
How to Apply for General Worker Jobs at Transnet in Durban
To apply for general worker jobs at Transnet in Durban, use official channels to avoid scams. Applications are primarily online, with screening for basic requirements.
- Online: Register on the Transnet career portal, upload CV and documents, and complete the form specifying the role and location (e.g., TPT Durban). Visit www.transnet.net.
- In-Person: For advertised walk-ins, visit Durban offices like the Transnet office in Durban (call 031 361 1111 to confirm).