Transnet SOC Ltd
Richards Bay is a major coal export hub and a strategic port city. Transnet is recruiting General Workers to assist with port and freight operations. Prior experience is not necessary, with full training included.
Richards Bay is a key port and industrial hub within KwaZulu-Natal, serving as a major center for coal exports and logistics in South Africa. Transnet plays a vital role in supporting the city through its port operations, rail networks, and terminals.
Transnet maintains a strong presence in Richards Bay, with major facilities supporting the city’s role as a key port and industrial hub in KwaZulu-Natal. Some key sites include:
- Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) in Richards Bay: Manages cargo handling at one of South Africa’s largest export ports, specializing in coal and bulk commodities.
- Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT): Handles coal exports and related logistics operations.
- Richards 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 Richards 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 Richards 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 Richards Bay’s port and coal 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 Richards 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 Richards 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 Richards 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 Richards 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 Richards 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 Durban’s due to Richards Bay’s smaller economic scale, though supported by major port and coal 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 Richards 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 Richards Bay
To apply for general worker jobs at Transnet in Richards 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 Richards Bay). Visit www.transnet.net.
- In-Person: For advertised walk-ins, visit Richards Bay offices like the Transnet office in Richards Bay (call 035 905 1111 to confirm).