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

This is a 12-month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme designed to provide students and recent graduates with practical workplace experience in a professional environment. Successful candidates will receive hands-on exposure, training and mentorship while applying the technical knowledge gained during their studies.

Job Details

Position: Work Integrated Technical Learner
Employer: Transnet
Reference Number: req5703
Employee Group: Trainee
Department: TA Youth Development
Operating Division: Transnet Corporate Centre
Duration: 12 Months
Grade: TN
Reporting To: Specialist: Youth Development
Closing Date: 25 August 2026

Locations

Opportunities are available in:

• Durban
• East London
• Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha
• Ngqura

About the Work Integrated Learning Programme

The Transnet Work Integrated Learning programme aims to bridge the gap between academic studies and the workplace.

Participants will be given an opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real working environment while gaining valuable technical and professional experience.

The programme includes:

-Practical workplace exposure

-Hands-on training

-Mentorship

-Participation in departmental projects

-Exposure to industry-specific activities

-Professional and technical skills development

-Administrative and reporting experience

-Research and analytical activities

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Education

• Matric Certificate
• BEng Tech or National Diploma
• S4–S5 completed, including the required theoretical coursework.

Relevant fields of study include:

• Electrical Engineering – Heavy Current
• Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering

Additional Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen
• Be between 18 and 35 years old
• Have completed the required theoretical component of their qualification.

Key Responsibilities

Task Execution

Learners may be required to:

• Assist with projects within assigned departments or workstreams.
• Perform routine operational tasks under supervision.
• Provide administrative support.
• Assist with documentation and reporting.
• Complete assigned workplace activities according to required standards.

Learning and Development

Successful candidates will:

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

Communication and Collaboration

Learners will:

• Work with internal teams.
• Interact with customers and suppliers where required.
• Develop an understanding of business requirements.
• Provide updates on assigned projects and tasks.
• Assist with queries and requests for information.

Research and Analysis

Responsibilities may include:

• Conducting research.
• Collecting and analysing data.
• Assisting with information required for business decisions.
• Preparing reports.
• Preparing presentations using Microsoft Office.
• Supporting process-improvement initiatives.

Compliance and Professional Conduct

Learners will be expected to:

• Follow Transnet policies and procedures.
• Comply with workplace safety requirements.
• Maintain professional and ethical standards.
• Protect confidential information.
• Demonstrate integrity when carrying out assigned duties.

Skills and Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate:

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

Why Consider This Programme?

The programme provides an opportunity for qualifying technical students and recent graduates to obtain 12 months of practical workplace experience.

Participants can gain exposure to real projects and workplace processes while developing technical, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills that can strengthen their future employment prospects.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official Transnet Talent Portal.

When searching or applying for the vacancy, use:

Position: Work Integrated Technical Learner: Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, Ngqura
Reference Number: req5703

Applicants should complete the online application and ensure that all requested information and supporting documents are submitted correctly.

Closing Date: 25 August 2026

Transnet states that it is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that Human Resources receives the application before the closing date.

Employment Equity

Preference may be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of designated groups in accordance with Transnet’s Employment Equity Plan and organisational targets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

It is a 12-month workplace training programme that gives students and recent graduates practical experience related to their academic studies.

2. Is this a permanent job?

No. The advertisement identifies the position as a trainee opportunity, with the WIL programme running for 12 months.

3. What is the reference number?

The vacancy reference is req5703.

4. What qualifications are required?

Applicants need Matric and a relevant BEng Tech/National Diploma, with the required S4–S5 theoretical coursework completed.

5. Which engineering fields are accepted?

The advertisement lists:

• Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
• Mechanical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering

6. Can someone with only Grade 12 apply?

No. Although Matric is required, applicants must also meet the tertiary technical education requirements specified in the advertisement.

7. Do I need previous work experience?

The advertisement does not specify previous work experience as a minimum requirement. The programme itself is intended to provide practical workplace exposure.

8. What is the age requirement?

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.

9. Do I need to be South African?

Yes. Applicants must be South African citizens.

10. Where are the opportunities available?

The advertised locations are Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha and Ngqura.

11. How long is the programme?

The Work Integrated Learning programme runs for 12 months.

12. When do applications close?

Applications close on 25 August 2026.

Possible Interview Questions

The following are possible questions based on the requirements of the vacancy and are not confirmed Transnet interview questions.

1. Tell us about yourself and your engineering studies.

Briefly discuss your qualification, engineering discipline, academic progress and why you want practical workplace experience.

2. Why do you want to join Transnet’s Work Integrated Learning programme?

Connect your answer to gaining practical experience, applying your theoretical knowledge and developing your technical skills in a professional environment.

3. Why did you choose Electrical, Mechanical or Industrial Engineering?

Explain what attracted you to your chosen discipline and what you hope to achieve professionally.

4. What technical knowledge have you gained during your studies?

Give examples of subjects, projects, practical assignments or laboratory work relevant to your engineering discipline.

5. Tell us about a technical problem you had to solve.

Use an academic project or practical assignment and explain the problem, how you approached it and the result.

6. How do you approach workplace safety?

Mention following procedures, identifying hazards, conducting tasks carefully, using appropriate PPE and reporting unsafe conditions.

7. How would you handle an instruction you do not understand?

Explain that you would seek clarification from your supervisor rather than guessing, particularly where technical work or safety is involved.

8. Tell us about a time you worked as part of a team.

Use an academic group project, practical assignment, volunteer activity or other relevant example.

9. What computer programs can you use?

Discuss your experience with Microsoft Office and any engineering-related software relevant to your studies.

10. What are your strengths?

Relevant examples could include attention to detail, willingness to learn, teamwork, problem solving, communication and analytical thinking.

11. How would you respond if you made a mistake during your training?

Explain that you would report the mistake, take responsibility, assist in correcting it and learn how to prevent it from happening again.

12. Where do you see yourself after completing the programme?

Explain how you hope to use the 12 months of practical experience to strengthen your technical competence and progress toward a professional career in your engineering discipline.