Transnet SOC Ltd
East London, an important automotive export hub, is expanding its logistics capacity. Transnet is hiring General Workers to support freight operations and rail depots. No experience is required, as training will be given.
East London is a key port and industrial hub within the Eastern Cape, serving as a major center for trade and automotive manufacturing 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 East London, with major facilities supporting the city’s role as a key port and industrial hub in the Eastern Cape. Some key sites include:
- Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) in East London: Manages cargo handling at the Port of East London, supporting trade and automotive exports.
- East London Rail Depot: Supports rail logistics and freight operations.
- East London 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 East London 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 East London 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 East London’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 East London.
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 East London’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 East London.
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 East London 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 East London 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 Gqeberha, but slightly lower than major hubs like Cape Town or Durban due to the Eastern Cape’s smaller economic scale, though supported by port and automotive industry 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 East London 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 East London
To apply for general worker jobs at Transnet in East London, 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 East London). Visit www.transnet.net.
- In-Person: For advertised walk-ins, visit East London offices like the Transnet office in East London (call 043 700 1111 to confirm).