Transnet is inviting suitably qualified young South Africans to apply for the Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme 2026.

This 18-month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme is aimed at students and recent graduates who have completed their theoretical N4–N6 studies in selected non-technical fields and need practical workplace exposure.

The programme provides hands-on training, mentorship and workplace experience to help participants apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment and improve their employability.

Job Details

Position: Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner
Employer: Transnet
Reference Number: req5668
Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre
Employee Group: Trainee
Department: Youth Development – YPT
Grade: TN
Reporting To: Specialist: Youth Development
Programme Duration: 18 Months
Closing Date: 24 August 2026

Locations

Opportunities are available across:

• Cape Town
• Saldanha
• Durban
• Ngqura
• Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha

About the Transnet WIL Programme

The Work Integrated Learning Trainee Programme gives students and recent graduates an opportunity to obtain practical workplace experience related to their studies.

Participants will work alongside experienced professionals while receiving exposure to real workplace responsibilities, projects, administrative activities, research and business processes.

The programme runs for 18 months.

Fields of Study

Applicants must have completed all theoretical subjects from N4 to N6 in one of the following fields:

• Office Management
• Human Resources
• Marketing
• Financial Management

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

-Matric Certificate or equivalent.

-Completed N4–N6 theoretical subjects in one of the specified fields.

-Must be a South African citizen.

-Must be between 18 and 35 years old.

-Must have no bursary obligation with another company.

-Must provide a recent confirmation letter/proof from their educational institution.

-Must provide a certified Matric certificate.

-Must provide an academic record.

-Must provide a certified copy of their ID.

Preference will be given to People with Disabilities, as stated in the advertisement.

Key Responsibilities

Task Execution

Learners may be required to:

• Assist with specific departmental projects and workstreams.
• Perform routine operational activities under supervision.
• Provide administrative support.
• Assist with documentation.
• Prepare and maintain reports.
• Complete assigned workplace activities.

Learning and Development

Participants will:

• Attend relevant training sessions.
• Participate in workshops.
• Take part in mentorship programmes.
• Shadow experienced professionals.
• Gain practical insight into workplace operations.
• Participate in problem-solving activities.
• Develop analytical and professional workplace skills.

Communication and Collaboration

Learners may:

• Interact with customers and suppliers.
• Work closely with internal Transnet teams.
• Develop an understanding of business requirements.
• Provide regular progress updates.
• Assist with queries and requests.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues.

Research and Analysis

Responsibilities may include:

• Conducting market research.
• Collecting information and data.
• Analysing information to support business decisions.
• Preparing reports.
• Creating presentations using Microsoft Office.
• Supporting process-improvement initiatives.

Skills and Competencies

Transnet is looking for applicants who demonstrate:

• Good written communication skills
• Good verbal communication skills
• Basic computer skills
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving ability
• Attention to detail
• Willingness to learn
• Good interpersonal skills

Documents Required

Based on the advertisement, applicants should ensure they have the following documents ready:

1. Certified copy of Matric certificate
2. Academic record showing completion of N4–N6 theoretical subjects
3. Certified copy of South African ID
4. Most recent confirmation/proof letter from the educational institution

Applicants should ensure that documents are clear, current where applicable and uploaded in the appropriate sections of the online application.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Transnet Talent Portal.

Search for:

Work Integrated Non Technical Learner – Cape Town, Saldanha, Durban, Ngqura, Port Elizabeth

Use the following reference number:

Reference: req5668

Complete the online application and upload all supporting documentation requested by Transnet.

Closing Date

24 August 2026

Transnet specifically states that it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date.

Applicants are therefore encouraged not to wait until the final day to submit their applications.

Employment Equity

Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan and targets of Transnet and the relevant Operating Division.

The advertisement also specifically states that preference will be given to People with Disabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Transnet Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme?

It is an 18-month Work Integrated Learning programme that provides qualifying students and recent graduates with practical workplace experience related to their academic studies.

2. Is previous work experience required?

The advertisement does not specify previous work experience as a minimum requirement. The programme is designed specifically to provide participants with workplace exposure.

3. Can I apply with only Grade 12?

No. Matric is required, but applicants must also have completed the required N4–N6 theoretical subjects in one of the specified fields.

4. Which N6 qualifications are accepted?

The advertisement specifically lists:

• Office Management
• Human Resources
• Marketing
• Financial Management

5. Can I apply if I have completed N6 but still need practical experience?

Yes. The programme is intended to provide practical workplace experience to qualifying candidates who have completed the required theoretical studies.

6. How long is the programme?

The programme runs for 18 months.

7. What is the age requirement?

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.

8. Do I need to be a South African citizen?

Yes. South African citizenship is a stated requirement.

9. Can I apply if another company funded my studies?

The advertisement states that applicants must have no bursary obligation with another company.

10. Are People with Disabilities encouraged to apply?

Yes. The vacancy specifically states that preference will be given to People with Disabilities.

11. Where are the positions available?

The advertised locations include Cape Town, Saldanha, Durban, Ngqura and Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha.

12. What documents do I need?

The advertisement requests proof/confirmation from your institution, a certified Matric certificate, academic record and certified ID.

13. What is the reference number?

The reference number is req5668.

14. What is the closing date?

Applications close on 24 August 2026.

Possible Interview Questions

The following questions are based on the advertised programme requirements and are not confirmed Transnet interview questions.

1. Tell us about yourself.

Focus on your education, your N4–N6 qualification, your career interests and why you are seeking workplace experience.

2. Why are you interested in the Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme?

Explain how the programme will allow you to convert your theoretical knowledge into practical workplace skills.

3. What did you study and why did you choose that field?

Discuss your Office Management, Human Resources, Marketing or Financial Management studies and what interests you about the field.

4. What have you learned during your N4–N6 studies that you can apply at Transnet?

Choose two or three relevant subjects and provide practical examples of the knowledge you gained.

5. Do you have any previous work experience?

If you have none, don’t simply answer “no.” Discuss academic projects, volunteering, group assignments or other experiences that demonstrate transferable skills.

6. How would you handle multiple tasks with the same deadline?

Discuss prioritisation, planning, communicating with your supervisor and ensuring that important tasks are completed accurately.

7. Tell us about a time you worked in a team.

Use an example from college, school, volunteering or another environment and explain your contribution.

8. How comfortable are you using computers?

Mention relevant experience with programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and email, where applicable.

9. What would you do if you did not understand an instruction from your supervisor?

Explain that you would respectfully request clarification rather than risk completing the task incorrectly.

10. What are your strongest qualities?

Relevant qualities for this programme include attention to detail, willingness to learn, communication, teamwork, problem solving and reliability.

11. How do you handle constructive criticism?

Explain that you view feedback as an opportunity to learn, improve your performance and develop professionally.

12. Why should Transnet select you for this programme?

Connect your answer to your completed studies, willingness to learn, work ethic, communication skills and desire to gain practical experience.

13. What do you know about Transnet?

Prepare by understanding Transnet’s role in South Africa’s freight logistics, rail, ports and related infrastructure, and explain why gaining experience in a large organisation interests you.

14. Where do you see yourself after completing the 18-month programme?

Explain how you intend to use the workplace experience to strengthen your employability and pursue a career related to your qualification.

15. Are you willing to learn and perform duties outside your immediate field of study?

A strong answer should demonstrate flexibility and willingness to learn while still following instructions, organisational policies and professional standards.