Transnet is seeking to employ diesel mechanic artisans with fresh trade tests to join Transnet in Johannesburg for a 24 month Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Trainee Programme.
The vacancy notice is issued under Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) for young South Africans with less than one year work experience who have been trade tested as diesel mechanics within the previous four years.
The employment opportunity will provide technical knowledge application, as well as mentorship for the selected diesel mechanic artisans.
The closing date for applications is set for 16 October 2026 and it is up to applicants to ensure that Human Resources gets their application in time.
Transnet Diesel Mechanic Trainee Programme 2026 Overview
Below is a table with an overview of key information related to the diesel mechanic trainee opportunity with Transnet:
Programme detail Information
Organisation Transnet
Operating division TRIM
Position Work Integrated Technical Learner – Diesel Mechanic
Employee group Trainee
Department TA, FOLDRS & FUNC – Youth Development
Location Johannesburg
Reporting to Specialist: Youth Development
Grade WITL
Reference number req6003
Programme duration 24 months
Closing date 16 October 2026
This employment opportunity is suitable for young diesel mechanic artisans who need to extend their technical knowledge and get practical work experience. The Work Integrated Learning Program is specifically designed to address the gap between the theoretical skills learned and the practical application of the acquired knowledge. The new WIL training program will enable the fresh trade-test diesel mechanics to demonstrate and develop their technical expertise in the workplace.
Responsibilities of the Diesel Mechanic Trainee at Transnet
As a trainee diesel mechanic, the candidate will undertake a range of technical tasks related to the maintenance and repair of equipment and machinery. The responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Performing maintenance and repair procedures in accordance with instructions
- Diagnosing faults and conducting technical tests to identify the source of the problem
- Adhering to safety regulations and standards
- Maintaining and storing tools and equipment
- Recording and reporting on performed maintenance and repair tasks
The above list of responsibilities is by no means exhaustive as the trainee diesel mechanic would be required to carry out any other related duties, as instructed.
Minimum Requirements for the Job
A closer look at the vacancy notice reveals that Transnet has set out a number of requirements that applicants must meet to qualify for the WIL Trainee Programme. Specifically, the potential diesel mechanic trainees must:
- Be citizens of the Republic of South Africa
- Be between the age of 18 and 35
- Have a current diesel mechanic trade test with no more than four years since the test
- Have less than one year work experience
It is evident from the vacancy notice that the trainee position is only open to young artisans who have recently completed their trade tests. As such, the application pool will be comprised of individuals who not only demonstrate a strong desire to build a career in the diesel mechanic industry, but also a willingness to gain practical work experience.
Work Integrated Learning Technical Learner – Diesel Mechanic Competencies
The advertised job vacancy requires technical learners to demonstrate a range of competencies from the beginner level to the advanced level. The relevant skills and areas of knowledge are:
Beginner: Understanding of tools and safety practices
Intermediate: Working knowledge of the relevant trades
Advanced: The ability to manage, supervise and train others
The vacancy advertisement does not provide further information on how the level of proficiency for each of the listed skills is determined. As such, it is up to the job seekers to assess their own abilities in accordance with the requirements of the vacancy.
Employment Equity Statement
The vacancy notice informs the potential applicants that preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan and targets of the organisation or operating unit.
It is advisable that the job seekers thoroughly read through the given information to ensure that they understand the requirements of the application process and that they are able to provide all of the requested information.
How to Apply for the Diesel Mechanic Trainee Programme
To apply for the Diesel Mechanic Trainee Programme, the candidates should enter the official careers page and search for the job vacancy using the provided reference number. Prior to submitting their applications, the potential trainees should:
- Confirm whether they meet the requirements for citizenship, age, time since trade test, and work experience
- Have their trade tests and any supporting documentation at hand
- Consult the given vacancy advertisement to understand the application procedure and ensure that all the necessary documents are submitted
- Enter the required job reference number (req6003) and search for the vacancy advertisement on the Transnet careers page
- Submit the application prior to the closing date for the vacancy
Closing date: 16 October 2026
It should also be noted that the above-mentioned vacancy information does not provide a direct link to the application page. As such, the candidates should find the relevant job vacancy on Transnet’s careers page to view the application instructions.
Further Information for Applicants
The advertised trainee position is a 24 month programme designed for young diesel mechanics with less than one year of working experience. The given vacancy notice does not state whether the trainees are to receive a stipend per month. Therefore, prospective applicants are advised to consult the official advertisement for further information on remuneration and any other employment conditions. Furthermore, it is advisable to submit the application well in advance of the closing date to avoid any technical issues with the submission.
Final Remarks
The vacancy for the Work Integrated Technical Learner – Diesel Mechanic provides an excellent opportunity for young artisans to build their work experience after completing their diesel mechanic trade tests. South African citizens between the age of 18 and 35 who have been trade tested within the last four years and who have less than one year work experience are encouraged to apply for this position. The application deadline is set for 16 October 2026, and the aspiring diesel mechanics should search for reference req6003 on Transnet’s careers page.
