Are you passionate about trains and eager to embark on a fulfilling career in the railway industry? Look no further! Transnet Engineering, a leader in the locomotives sector, is currently offering an exciting Train Driver Vacancy in Durban. If you have the necessary qualifications, experience, and a commitment to safety and quality, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to drive your career forward.
Train Driver Vacancy Details
- Position Title: Train Driver
- Operating Division: Transnet Engineering
- Employee Group: Non-Permanent
- Department: Locomotives BT
- Location: Durban
- Reporting To: Superintendent
- Grade: FTMH2X
- Reference: req1965
- Application Closing Date: 6th September 2024
The primary role of the Train Driver Vacancy is to efficiently and safely place and clear wagons and locomotives. This includes compiling, receiving, and dispatching trains and conveying crucial information to ensure wagons and trains are delivered to their required destinations in accordance with prescribed rules. The role also involves test-driving the 23 E class locomotive to ensure functionality and safety.
Qualifications and Experience Required
To be considered for the Train Driver Vacancy, applicants must meet the following qualifications and experience requirements:
- Educational Qualification: Grade 12 (NQF Level 4)
- Professional Qualification: Must be a qualified train driver
- Experience: A minimum of 2 years of experience as a Train Driver
- Additional Knowledge: Familiarity with locomotives and experience in the railway sector is advantageous
Key Responsibilities
As a candidate for the Train Driver Vacancy, you will be involved in various activities crucial to the operation of the locomotives department. Your daily tasks will ensure the smooth, safe, and efficient movement of trains within the rail network.
Below is a comprehensive list of the key responsibilities and activities you will be expected to perform:
- Test Driving: Conducting test drives of TFR 23 Electric class locomotives to ensure they are in optimal working condition. This involves performing pre-drive checks, identifying any mechanical or operational issues, and reporting them to maintenance teams for prompt resolution.
- Shunting of Locomotives: Managing the shunting of different classes of locomotives, including 23E, 18E, 7E, 19E, diesel locos, wagons, and coaches. Shunting involves moving trains and wagons around the rail yard or station, organizing them into specific orders, or directing them to appropriate tracks.
- Operating Equipment: Handling various specialized rail equipment such as Travesor, Hunslet, Whiting, Zepher, and Dezy Hauler. This includes understanding the operation of each piece of equipment, conducting routine inspections, and ensuring their safe and effective use in train operations.
- Changing of Points: Executing the changing of points on the tracks to direct train movements safely and effectively. This requires precise knowledge of track layouts and switch mechanisms, as well as the ability to coordinate with signal operators and other rail staff to prevent accidents and ensure timely train movements.
- Coupling Activities: Engaging in the coupling of loads, safety links, and air/vacuum brakes to ensure all trains and wagons are securely connected. This task demands careful attention to detail to prevent disconnections or failures, which could compromise the safety of the train journey.
- Safety Inspections: Conducting routine and emergency safety inspections of locomotives, wagons, and other rail equipment. These inspections include checking for mechanical issues, ensuring safety systems are functional, and adhering to safety protocols to protect yourself and your colleagues.
- Train Dispatching: Coordinating with the control center to dispatch trains according to the set timetable. This involves monitoring train schedules, preparing trains for departure, and ensuring that all safety and operational checks are completed before the train leaves the station.
- Communication and Coordination: Maintaining clear and effective communication with the control center, other train drivers, and rail yard staff to coordinate train movements. This includes using radios and other communication devices to provide updates on train locations, track conditions, and any potential delays or issues.
- Emergency Handling: Being prepared to handle emergencies such as mechanical failures, collisions, or derailments. This includes executing emergency protocols, coordinating with emergency response teams, and ensuring the safety of passengers, cargo, and rail personnel.
- Documentation and Reporting: Keeping accurate records of train movements, incidents, fuel consumption, and maintenance activities. This information is critical for operational planning, safety audits, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Load Management: Assessing and managing the distribution of cargo loads within wagons and coaches to ensure balanced weight distribution, which is essential for safe train operation. This includes verifying cargo manifests and ensuring that all loads are secured according to safety standards.
- Environmental Compliance: Ensuring that all train operations comply with environmental regulations. This involves minimizing emissions, reducing fuel consumption, and managing waste products generated during train operations.
- Housekeeping and Maintenance: Performing routine housekeeping tasks within the locomotive and rail yard to maintain a clean and safe working environment. This includes checking fluid levels, lubricating moving parts, and cleaning cabins and equipment.
- Training and Development: Participating in ongoing training and development programs to stay updated on the latest safety protocols, operational procedures, and technological advancements in rail transportation.
- Customer Service: Occasionally interacting with passengers and providing them with assistance or information as needed, particularly during service disruptions or delays. This requires a professional demeanor and the ability to handle inquiries or complaints effectively.
- Collaboration with Engineering Teams: Working closely with engineering and maintenance teams to address any technical issues or malfunctions in the locomotives. This includes providing feedback on locomotive performance and suggesting improvements or modifications.
Competencies and Skills Required
Transnet Engineering is looking for candidates who possess the following competencies and skills for the Train Driver Vacancy:
- Technically minded with a solid understanding of train operations and locomotive technology
- In-depth product knowledge of various locomotive classes and railway operations
- Familiarity with fusion welding techniques
- Strong awareness of safety protocols in working areas
- Knowledge of quality standards and the ability to perform first inspections
- Reliable with excellent time management abilities
- Proficient in using tools, machinery, and materials relevant to train operations
- Strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work responsibly under pressure and manage stressful situations effectively
- Good housekeeping procedures to maintain a safe and clean work environment
- Strong team player with multicultural adaptability
- Ability to read technical drawings and blueprints
- Reliable, responsible, and attentive to detail
- Ability to function independently while being goal-oriented and business-focused
- Quality conscious with a strong commitment to excellence
- Physically fit to handle the demands of the job
- Compliant with visual acuity requirements for train driving
- Strong eye-hand and feet coordination
- Good depth perception to navigate train routes and operate machinery safely
How to Apply
Interested candidates should ensure their applications are submitted to HR by the closing date of 6th September 2024. It is the applicant’s responsibility to verify that HR has received their application before the closing date.
Related: How to Write a Cover Letter to Accompany Your CV
Transnet Engineering is committed to diversity and inclusion. Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and targets of the organisation.
Don’t miss this chance to advance your career with a leading company in South Africa’s dynamic railway sector. Apply now for this Train Driver Vacancy and start your journey toward a rewarding career at Transnet Engineering in Durban!