
Transnet Freight Rail General Workers (x42) Jobs – 4 Month Contract in Durban | Apply Before 06 March 2026
Transnet Freight Rail is inviting applications from suitably qualified and motivated candidates for 42 General Worker positions on a fixed-term contract basis. This opportunity is ideal for individuals who are hardworking, physically fit, and willing to contribute to maintenance and construction projects within the rail infrastructure environment.
The positions will be based in Durban, within the TEW department, and successful candidates will report directly to the Site Supervisor. This is a Level L2 position offered for a period of four months.
Working with Transnet Freight Rail offers candidates an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the rail and construction industry. It also provides exposure to professional safety standards, teamwork, and operational processes within one of South Africa’s most important freight logistics organizations.
Job Title: General Workers (x42)
Job Level: L2
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Duration: 4 Months
Department: TEW
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Reporting To: Site Supervisor
Closing Date: 06 March 2026 at 12:00 PM
About Transnet Freight Rail
- Transnet Freight Rail is one of the largest rail freight operators in Africa.
- The company operates under Transnet SOC Ltd and is responsible for transporting freight across South Africa’s national rail network.
- The organization supports key industries such as mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics.
- Rail infrastructure maintenance and development is essential to ensure safe and reliable transportation.
- General workers play a critical role in supporting construction and maintenance teams on railway projects.
- Transnet regularly recruits entry-level workers to assist with physical labour tasks in operational environments.
- These positions provide practical experience within the rail and construction sectors.
- Workers gain exposure to safety standards, teamwork, and infrastructure development operations.
- The Durban positions will support construction and maintenance teams working on rail infrastructure projects.
Job Purpose
- Assist TEW and RNC construction teams with maintenance and construction activities.
- Support railway infrastructure maintenance operations.
- Ensure work is completed efficiently and according to safety standards.
- Perform general labour tasks required on construction sites.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
- Provide support to supervisors and technical teams.
- Contribute to the successful completion of construction and maintenance projects.
- Ensure that all assigned duties are completed on time.
- Follow workplace safety and operational procedures at all times.
Key Responsibilities
Construction Support
- Assist construction teams with daily project activities.
- Support technicians and engineers working on railway infrastructure.
- Prepare work areas before construction activities begin.
- Assist with maintenance and repair work on rail infrastructure.
Material Handling
- Load and unload construction materials.
- Transport materials within the construction site.
- Stack materials safely in designated areas.
- Assist teams with equipment and materials required for daily operations.
Site Cleaning and Maintenance
- Remove weeds from construction areas.
- Sweep floors and working areas.
- Clean and organize work sites.
- Remove excess rubble or debris.
- Dispose of waste materials safely.
Use of Hand Tools
- Use non-mechanized hand tools during construction activities.
- Handle tools safely and correctly.
- Follow safety procedures when using equipment.
- Ensure tools are returned after use.
Tool Cleaning
- Clean tools after each shift.
- Store tools properly to maintain functionality.
- Report damaged tools to supervisors.
Safety Compliance
- Follow all workplace safety procedures.
- Remain alert and aware of potential hazards.
- Wear appropriate protective equipment.
- Report unsafe conditions immediately.
Teamwork
- Follow instructions from the Site Supervisor or Team Leader.
- Work closely with other workers and technicians.
- Assist team members when required.
- Maintain discipline and professionalism on site.
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum Grade 9 qualification.
- OR at least six months of relevant working experience.
- South African identity document.
- Ability to work in physically demanding environments.
- Willingness to perform manual labour tasks.
- Ability to follow instructions from supervisors.
- Commitment to workplace safety standards.
Skills and Competencies
Physical Fitness
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks.
- Ability to lift and carry materials.
- Willingness to stand or walk for long periods.
- Must pass a medical fitness examination.
Safety Awareness
- Ability to follow health and safety regulations.
- Awareness of workplace hazards.
- Commitment to maintaining safe working conditions.
Communication Skills
- Ability to communicate effectively in English.
- Ability to understand work instructions.
- Ability to report issues to supervisors.
Weather Adaptability
- Ability to work outdoors in different weather conditions.
- Willingness to work during hot, cold, or rainy conditions.
Work Flexibility
- Willingness to work extended hours when necessary.
- Availability to work overtime at short notice.
- Ability to work shifts depending on operational needs.
Mobility
- Willingness to relocate temporarily if required.
- Ability to work outside the designated depot when necessary.
Confined Spaces and Heights
- Ability to work in confined spaces.
- Ability to work at heights when required.
Noise Tolerance
- Ability to work in noisy construction environments.
Physical Labour Readiness
- Willingness to perform manual labour tasks daily.
Work Environment
- Railway construction sites.
- Maintenance areas along rail lines.
- Industrial operational yards.
- Outdoor working environments.
- Exposure to dust and noise.
- Exposure to changing weather conditions.
- Physically demanding work activities.
Required Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of school report or qualification.
- Proof of residential address for the last 3 months.
- Affidavit confirming residential address if required.
- All documents must be certified and clearly visible.
- Applications without required documents will be declared invalid.
Important Conditions
- Applicants must be punctual and reliable.
- Applicants must maintain sober habits while on duty.
- Workers must follow instructions from supervisors.
- Workers must comply with company safety policies.
- Workers must perform all assigned duties responsibly.
Benefits of the Opportunity
- Opportunity to gain experience in the rail industry.
- Exposure to construction and maintenance operations.
- Opportunity to develop teamwork skills.
- Opportunity to work with experienced technicians.
- Entry-level employment opportunity in a national logistics company.
- Experience that may support future employment opportunities.
Application Process
- Prepare all required documents.
- Ensure copies are certified.
- Submit application before the closing date.
- Applications must be hand delivered to the specified address.
- Late applications will not be accepted.
Interested candidates should prepare their application documents and ensure that all required information is included. Applications must be submitted by hand delivery to the specified location before the closing date.
Application Address
130 Eel Road
Bayhead
Durban
South Africa
Closing Date: 06 March 2026 at 12:00 PM
Important Notice
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback after the recruitment process, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Ensure all documents are attached before submitting your application.