Transnet SOC Ltd
As a Train Driver or Shunter at Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), you’ll be at the controls of powerful locomotives hauling essential cargo—coal, iron ore, containers, fuel, and agricultural products—across thousands of kilometers of rail network. It’s a career that offers independence, responsibility, competitive pay, and the satisfaction of keeping South Africa’s economy moving.
What Do Train Drivers & Shunters Do?
Train Driver (Locomotive Engineer)
What You’ll Do: Operate freight locomotives over long distances, transporting cargo between ports, mines, industrial sites, and distribution centers. Ensure safe, efficient train operations while adhering to strict safety protocols and schedules.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate diesel-electric and electric locomotives
- Conduct pre-departure inspections and safety checks
- Monitor train performance, speed, and systems during operation
- Respond to signals, track conditions, and operational instructions
- Manage train braking, acceleration, and stopping
- Communicate with control centers and yard personnel
- Complete trip reports and documentation
- Ensure cargo security and integrity during transport
- Handle emergency situations and equipment malfunctions
Why Become a Train Driver?
- Operate multi-million rand equipment independently
- Travel across beautiful South African landscapes
- High job satisfaction and sense of responsibility
- Excellent compensation with overtime opportunities
- Clear career progression pathways
- Job security in essential infrastructure
Explore Other Transnet Career Paths
Don’t limit yourself! Discover more opportunities across Transnet:
→ General Worker Jobs – NO EXPERIENCE | R10,000-R15,000/month
→ Apprenticeships – PAID TRAINING | 3-4 years | R6,000-R12,000/month
→ Learnerships & Graduate Programs – FOR GRADUATES | R4,000-R10,000/month
→ Artisan & Technician – HIGH DEMAND | R18,000-R35,000/month
→ Train Driver – SPECIALIZED | R18,000-R40,000/month
→ Engineering & Project Management – PROFESSIONAL | R35,000-R80,000+/month
→ Warehouse & Inventory – HANDS-ON | R14,000-R35,000/month
→ Port Operations & Logistics – MARITIME | R15,000-R45,000/month
→ Security & Asset Protection – PSIRA REQUIRED | R10,000-R28,000/month
→ Safety, Health & Environmental – COMPLIANCE | R20,000-R50,000/month
→ Finance, HR & Corporate – OFFICE-BASED | R15,000-R70,000+/month
Every role offers: Job security | Medical aid | Provident fund | Career growth | Training
Compare All Careers → | Salary Calculator → | Apply Now →
Shunter (Yard Operations)
What You’ll Do: Operate locomotives within rail yards to assemble trains, position wagons, connect and disconnect rolling stock, and prepare trains for departure. Critical role ensuring efficient yard operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate shunting locomotives in rail yards and terminals
- Couple and uncouple wagons and locomotives
- Position rolling stock for loading/unloading
- Perform yard switching and train marshalling
- Conduct safety inspections on rolling stock
- Communicate with yard controllers and general workers
- Ensure proper wagon sequencing for train formations
- Maintain yard safety and operational efficiency
Why Become a Shunter?
- Gateway role to train driver positions
- Master locomotive operation in controlled environment
- Develop essential rail operational skills
- Work in teams with varied daily tasks
- Competitive salary with shift allowances
- Foundation for long-term rail career
Train Driver & Shunter Salaries at Transnet
| Position | Experience Level | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trainee Train Driver | In Training (6-12 months) | R10,000–R15,000 | R120,000–R180,000 |
| Junior Train Driver | 0-2 years qualified | R18,000–R25,000 | R216,000–R300,000 |
| Train Driver | 3-5 years experience | R25,000–R32,000 | R300,000–R384,000 |
| Senior Train Driver | 5-10 years experience | R32,000–R40,000 | R384,000–R480,000 |
| Shunter | Entry-level | R12,000–R18,000 | R144,000–R216,000 |
| Senior Shunter | 3+ years experience | R18,000–R25,000 | R216,000–R300,000 |
Additional Earnings:
- Overtime: R3,000–R8,000/month (very common due to long-distance trips and operational demands)
- Night Shift Allowance: 20-30% premium for night operations
- Away-from-Home Allowance: Compensation for overnight trips
- Long-Distance Premium: Additional pay for routes over certain distances
- On-Call Allowance: Emergency callout compensation
Total Package (Including Overtime): Senior train drivers can earn R45,000–R55,000/month total compensation
How to Apply for Train Driver & Shunter Positions
Step 1: Ensure You Meet Requirements
Review the requirements above carefully. If you meet the basic criteria (age, education, license, medical fitness), you’re ready to apply.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
Create a comprehensive CV highlighting:
- Educational qualifications (certified copies ready)
- Valid driver’s license details
- Previous work experience (especially in transport, logistics, or operations)
- Any mechanical or technical experience
- Reliability and safety record in previous roles
- References from employers
Write a motivational letter explaining:
- Why you want to become a train driver/shunter
- Your commitment to safety and responsibility
- Your willingness to work irregular hours and be away from home
- How your background prepares you for this career
Step 3: Search for Openings
- Transnet Career Portal: jobs.transnet.net
- Search Terms: “train driver,” “trainee train driver,” “locomotive driver,” “shunter”
- Application Periods: Positions advertised throughout the year; major intakes typically January-March
- Set Alerts: Register to receive notifications
Explore Related Transnet Career Paths
Customer service connects with all aspects of Transnet:
- General Worker Jobs → – Entry pathway to Transnet
- Apprenticeship Programs → – Technical training opportunities
- Artisan & Technician Careers → – Support customers by ensuring equipment works
- Port Operations & Logistics → – Coordinate closely with operations
- Train Driver Positions → – Customer service supports rail operations
- Engineering & Project Management → – Service quality depends on reliable assets
- Safety, Health & Environmental → – Safety is part of customer promise
- Finance, HR & Corporate Services → – Sales, marketing, admin support roles
- Warehouse & Inventory Management → – Inventory affects service delivery
- Security & Asset Protection → – Security ensures reliable service
- Learnerships & Graduate Programs → – Entry pathway for graduates