
Transnet SOC Ltd
Saldanha Bay is home to a major bulk cargo port serving mining and steel exports. Transnet is hiring General Workers to strengthen port and rail services. These jobs are open to entry-level applicants with training provided.
Saldanha Bay is a key port and industrial hub within the Western Cape, serving as a major center for iron ore exports and logistics in South Africa. Transnet plays a vital role in supporting the town through its port operations, rail networks and terminals.
Transnet maintains a strong presence in Saldanha Bay, with major facilities supporting the town’s role as a key port and industrial hub in the Western Cape. Some key sites include:
- Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) in Saldanha Bay: Manages cargo handling at the Port of Saldanha, specializing in iron ore and bulk commodities.
- Saldanha Bay Iron Ore Terminal: Handles iron ore exports and related logistics operations.
- Saldanha Bay Rail Depot: Supports rail logistics for freight and industrial cargo.
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 Saldanha Bay 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 Saldanha Bay 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 Saldanha Bay’s port and iron ore 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 Saldanha Bay.
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 Saldanha Bay’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 Saldanha Bay.
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 Saldanha Bay 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 Saldanha Bay market conditions from jobservicehub.com and Payscale data, with potential for overtime premiums in shift-based rail and port operations.
Salaries are competitive but slightly lower than Cape Town’s due to Saldanha Bay’s smaller economic scale, though supported by major port and iron ore export 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 Saldanha Bay 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.
How to Apply for General Worker Jobs at Transnet in Saldanha Bay
To apply for general worker jobs at Transnet in Saldanha Bay, 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 Saldanha Bay). Visit www.transnet.net.
- In-Person: For advertised walk-ins, visit Saldanha Bay offices like the Transnet office in Saldanha Bay (call 022 703 1111 to confirm).