Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist the Train Driver in safely operating various trains and ensuring timely delivery of cargo.
- Company: Join Transnet Freight Rail, a leader in rail transport with a focus on safety and efficiency.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and a chance to work in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital industry, making a real difference in transport and logistics.
- Qualifications: Grade 12 with Mathematics or Physical Science; must be at least 1.6m tall.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and development in a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Operating Division: Transnet Freight Rail | Employee Group: Trainee | Department: OP-COR-EXEC-TCM-Train Crew-BFZ | Location: Belfast | Reporting To: Section Manager: Train Traffic | Grade: SSTFT | Reference: req4297
Position Purpose
Assist the Train Driver in the safe and efficient driving/handling of all different types of trains/locomotives consists (airbrake, vacuum, high speed, heavy haul and passengers) to ensure that the customers' freight/cargo reaches its destination in good condition, on time, in order to enable the organisation to satisfy the customer needs.
Position Outputs
- Sign on duty at designated workplace and be allocated duties to be performed for the duration of the shift.
- Determine which locomotive to be prepared. Obtain and place equipment on locomotive. Check and supplement prescribed equipment. Clean working area. Assist with starting up of locomotive as prescribed assist with locomotive brake tests. Couple locomotive. Sign on duty. Despatch locomotives.
- Prepare locomotives. Determine which locomotive to be prepared. Obtain and place equipment on locomotive. Check and supplement prescribed equipment. Clean working area. Assist with starting up of locomotives as prescribed. Assist with locomotive brake tests.
- Prepare communication equipment. Obtain radios/handsets/walkie talkies/telemeters when applicable. Check functionality of communication equipment.
- Perform the pre-trip preparation of the Locomotives and the whole Train prior to departure to adhere to roadworthiness and train working rules and safety standards. Attach/detach vehicles according to works order in absence of guard personnel. Mount telemeters where necessary. Complete vehicle list and vacuum form. Mount train indicators. Examine train. Do brake test in conjunction with train driver.
- Execute shunting activities in sidings and enroute according to directives to enhance safe working procedures. Obtain works order. Perform shunting/placing/removing of trucks as per works order. Update vehicle list. Place and clear load/empty trucks at siding.
- Assist the train driver enroute to ensure the safe movement of the train from a required point to the destination, without delays or damage to locomotives, wagons, infrastructure track and other equipment, to ensure predictable service. Verbally compare signal positions and display with train driver. Observe proceeding trains patrol locomotives. Reset locomotive trip outs. Observe safe running of train. Protect train during incidents. Assist Train Driver during emergency circumstances.
- Comply to safety standards and laid down instruction to ensure that he is well motivated and competent. Provide accurate feedback timeously to the Train Driver regarding any incidents and deviations along the route. Assist in performing various administration duties. Complete the Train journal and submit to the Section Manager at sign-off after every shift to ensure timeous and accurate processing of monthly salary.
Qualifications and Experience
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Grade 12 with pure Mathematics and/or Physical Science.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Be prepared to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioural risk assessments during the selection process and every 12 months. Physical hearing, vision, mental, fitness (to be verified through medical tests and related safety behavioural risk assessments). The operator shall not allow employees younger than 21 years of age to undertake Train driver or train control duties (SANS 3000, par 6.2.6.8).
THE FOLLOWING MINIMUM TRAINEE PRE-REQUISITE: The candidate should be a minimum of 1.6m tall. Psychomotor ability (to be assessed through Vienna Testing System (VTS standards). Ability to carry heavy objects.
FUNCTIONAL TRAINING: Be prepared to successfully undergo Train Assistant duties (theoretical and practical) so as to be certified to work independently as a Train Assistant. Be willing, prepared and capable to obtain a Train Assistant duties certificate (theoretical and practical) successfully and be certified to work independently as Train Assistant.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Be prepared to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioural risk assessments during the selection process and every 12 months. Physical, hearing, vision, and mental fitness (to be verified through medical tests and related Safety Behavioural Risk Assessment).
Competencies
Knowledge: Various communications systems, Depot layout, Locomotive classes, Locomotive equipment, Route/road Sections/stations and sidings, Signing on duty procedures, Train working rules, Trip report, Yard and siding layout, Knowledge of general TFR policies, Shunting procedures, Locomotive classes and their hauling capacities, constraints on the particular territory, Health and Safety Act 8515, First Aid, Basic conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), SANS 3004 (Human Factors), HC Policies and procedures, Train service/ITP Training workings, Substance Abuse policy and procedures.
Skills Required:
- Locomotive coupling and uncoupling
- Locomotive preparations (Electrical and Diesel)
- Observation
- Shunting movement
- Train handling skills
- Time management
- Stress handling
- Assessment
- Literacy
- Communication
- Judgement
- Reasoning
- Psychomotor skills (reactions/coordination)
- Concentration
- Observation
- Spatial
- Depth perception psychomotor
- Numericals
- Train/locomotive handling and preparation
- Problem solving
- Electrical and diesel locomotive driving
Attributes:
- Stress handling
- Self-management
- Safety conscious
- Punctual
- Willing to work shifts
- Results orientated
Equity Statement
Preference will be given to suitably qualified Applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.
Disclaimer
If you have not heard from Transnet within 90 days, please consider your application as unsuccessful.
Anti-Fraud Notice
Transnet, its employees or representatives never ask for a fee from job seekers. Any such requests are fraudulent. Please report any suspicious activities in this regard to the Transnet anti-fraud line on 0800 003 056 or email reportit@ethicshelpdesk.com.
Trainee Train Assistant in Belfast employer: Transnet Company
Contact Detail:
Transnet Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Train Assistant in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Train Assistants on LinkedIn or at local rail events. They can give you insider tips and might even know about job openings before they're advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of locomotives and train operations. Show that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the role and the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Trainee Train Assistant, you'll need to work closely with the Train Driver and other crew members. Being clear and confident in your communication can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at Transnet Freight Rail.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Train Assistant in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Trainee Train Assistant role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for trains and safety shine through in your application. We love candidates who are excited about the role and can demonstrate a genuine interest in the railway industry.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your sentences are easy to read. We appreciate clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you're a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all your details correctly and helps us process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Transnet Company
✨Know Your Locomotives
Familiarise yourself with the different types of locomotives and their specific requirements. Understanding airbrake, vacuum, and heavy haul systems will show your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Safety First!
Brush up on safety standards and train working rules. Being able to discuss how you would ensure safety during operations will impress the interviewers and demonstrate your awareness of the responsibilities involved.
✨Communication is Key
Prepare to discuss how you would effectively communicate with the train driver and other crew members. Highlighting your understanding of communication systems and protocols can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Think of examples where you've had to handle stress or solve problems quickly. Being able to articulate how you would manage unexpected situations on the job will showcase your readiness for the challenges of a Trainee Train Assistant.