Transnet SOC Ltd
Are you passionate about working with your hands? Do you dream of becoming a skilled electrician, fitter, welder, or diesel mechanic? Transnet’s apprenticeship programs provide the perfect pathway to transform your ambitions into a rewarding career in one of South Africa’s most critical industries.
What is a Transnet Apprenticeship?
A Transnet apprenticeship is a structured 3-4 year training program that combines:
- Classroom learning at accredited training centers
- Hands-on practical experience in Transnet’s workshops and facilities
- Industry-recognized qualifications including National Certificates and Trade Test certification
- Monthly stipend throughout your training (R6,000–R12,000/month)
- Guaranteed employment upon successful completion
Unlike general worker positions that require no experience, apprenticeships demand commitment but offer significant career rewards. Many of Transnet’s senior artisans and technicians started their careers as apprentices.
Available Apprenticeship Trades at Transnet
Transnet offers apprenticeships across multiple specialized trades:
1. Electrical Engineering Apprenticeships
Learn to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in locomotives, rolling stock, port equipment, and industrial facilities.
Duration: 4 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Electrical installations, control systems, PLC programming, motor maintenance, safety compliance
Career Path: Progress to Senior Electrician or Electrical Engineering roles
2. Fitter & Turner Apprenticeships
Master the art of machining, assembling, and maintaining mechanical components for locomotives and industrial equipment.
Duration: 4 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Precision machining, blueprint reading, welding basics, mechanical assembly, quality control
Career Path: Advance to Artisan Fitter or Mechanical Technician roles
3. Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeships
Specialize in maintaining and repairing diesel locomotives and heavy machinery that power South Africa’s freight network.
Duration: 3-4 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Engine diagnostics, hydraulics, pneumatics, fuel systems, transmission repair
Career Path: Move into Senior Diesel Mechanic or Locomotive Maintenance roles
4. Welder Apprenticeships
Develop expertise in various welding techniques essential for manufacturing and repairing rail infrastructure and equipment.
Duration: 3 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Arc welding, MIG/TIG welding, metal fabrication, blueprint interpretation, quality inspection
Career Path: Progress to Certified Welder or Welding Supervisor positions
5. Boilermaker Apprenticeships
Learn to fabricate, assemble, and repair metal structures and pressure vessels used in locomotives and industrial systems.
Duration: 4 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Metal fabrication, structural welding, blueprint reading, pressure vessel maintenance
Career Path: Advance to Senior Boilermaker or Fabrication Supervisor roles
6. Millwright Apprenticeships
Become skilled in installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial machinery and mechanical systems.
Duration: 4 years
Skills You’ll Gain: Machinery installation, alignment, mechanical troubleshooting, preventative maintenance
Career Path: Progress to Senior Millwright or Maintenance Planner positions
Apprentice Salaries & Benefits at Transnet
| Year of Training | Monthly Stipend | Annual Stipend |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | R6,000–R7,500 | R72,000–R90,000 |
| Year 2 | R7,500–R9,000 | R90,000–R108,000 |
| Year 3 | R9,000–R10,500 | R108,000–R126,000 |
| Year 4 | R10,500–R12,000 | R126,000–R144,000 |
| Qualified Artisan | R18,000–R35,000+ | R216,000–R420,000+ |
Additional Benefits:
- Free training and course materials
- Safety gear and protective equipment
- Medical aid contributions
- Provident fund enrollment
- Trade test preparation and certification
- Accommodation assistance (where applicable)
- Clear career progression pathways
Stipends increase annually as you gain experience and skills. Upon qualifying, you’ll earn a full artisan salary.
Requirements for Transnet Apprenticeships
Minimum Entry Requirements:
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric) certificate with Mathematics and Physical Science
- Minimum Marks:
- Mathematics: 50%+ (higher for competitive trades)
- Physical Science: 50%+
- English: 40%+
- Age: 18-35 years (may vary by program)
- Health: Medically fit for physical work
- Background: Clear criminal record
Desirable Qualities:
- Strong practical aptitude and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to learn and work with your hands
- Good attention to detail
- Ability to work in teams
- Commitment to safety protocols
- Interest in mechanical/electrical systems
Documents Required:
- Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate and academic transcript
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of residential address (utility bill or affidavit)
- Recent CV highlighting relevant subjects and achievements
- Motivational letter explaining your interest in the trade
- Clear police clearance certificate
Where Transnet Apprenticeships Are Available
Transnet offers apprenticeships across its major divisions and locations:
Transnet Engineering (TE) – Primary Provider
- Durban: Largest training facility with all trades available
- Pretoria: Engineering workshops offering electrical, fitter, and diesel mechanic programs
- Bloemfontein: Mechanical and welding apprenticeships
- Germiston: Comprehensive trade training center
- Cape Town: Port-related mechanical and electrical trades
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR)
- Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth: Locomotive maintenance apprenticeships
- Integration with train driver training programs for career versatility
Transnet Port Terminals (TPT)
- Durban, Richards Bay, Cape Town: Port equipment maintenance and mechanical trades
- Pathway to specialized port operations roles
How to Apply for Transnet Apprenticeships
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Review the requirements above and ensure you meet the minimum criteria. If you’re currently in Grade 12, you can apply provisionally with predicted marks.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
Gather all required documents:
- Certified copies of certificates and ID
- Updated CV highlighting your technical subjects, projects, and any relevant experience
- Compelling motivational letter explaining why you want to pursue this trade
- Academic transcript showing your marks
Step 3: Search for Openings
- Transnet Career Portal: Visit jobs.transnet.net and search for “apprenticeship” or “learnership”
- Application Periods: Typically advertised January-April for mid-year intake
- Set Up Alerts: Register on the portal to receive notifications
Explore Related Career Opportunities
Already working or looking for alternatives? Explore these related paths:
- General Worker Jobs at Transnet – Start immediately with no experience required
- Artisan & Technician Careers at Transnet – Already qualified? Apply for artisan positions
- Engineering & Project Management at Transnet – For degree holders and experienced engineers
- Learnerships & Graduate Programs at Transnet – Alternative training pathways
- Safety, Health & Environmental Careers – Specialize in workplace safety