Transnet Vacancy: Trainee Cargo Coordinator Position at Belcon, South Africa

A Transnet vacancy has opened for the position of Trainee Cargo Coordinator at Belcon, South Africa. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to start a career in logistics, cargo handling, and rail operations.

Transnet Freight Rail, one of South Africa’s most prominent freight transport companies, offers extensive training and career development through this role. If you’re passionate about cargo operations and want to work in a dynamic and safety-focused environment, this position could be your gateway to a successful career.

About Transnet Freight Rail

Transnet Freight Rail, a division of Transnet, is responsible for managing freight transport across South Africa. As one of the largest freight rail companies in the country, Transnet Freight Rail plays a critical role in the movement of goods via rail, ensuring that South Africa’s logistics infrastructure remains strong and efficient.

A Transnet vacancy like this provides valuable exposure to a variety of operational processes and a clear path for career growth.

Position Purpose

The Trainee Cargo Coordinator will be tasked with supporting cargo operations at the Belcon terminal, ensuring that the terminal’s daily operations run smoothly, efficiently, and in accordance with Transnet Freight Rail’s safety standards. In this role, the trainee will be involved in the loading, offloading, and stacking of containers, as well as the inspection of cargo for damages or discrepancies.

As a Transnet vacancy, this position will provide you with practical experience in cargo operations while learning essential skills such as terminal safety procedures, documentation handling, and effective cargo management. This position offers a solid foundation for anyone looking to establish themselves in the logistics or transportation industry.

Key Responsibilities

As a Trainee Cargo Coordinator, your responsibilities will include the following tasks:

1. Physical Check of Incoming Trains

One of the key duties involves inspecting incoming trains that carry containers. This includes:

• Verifying the condition of containers and checking the integrity of the wagons.
• Inspecting seal numbers, checking for any damages or contamination, and ensuring that containers are properly offloaded.
• Supervising general workers to ensure safe offloading of cargo.
• Capturing all inspection data using the Hand Held Terminal (HHT) and reporting any discrepancies to supervisors.

This process is essential for maintaining the integrity and safety of cargo handling operations, ensuring that all goods are correctly accounted for upon arrival.

2. Physical Check of Outgoing Trains

The trainee will also be responsible for inspecting outgoing trains. Tasks include:

• Ensuring that empty wagons are in good condition and ready for cargo loading.
• Coordinating the loading of containers, verifying that the correct containers are loaded onto the right wagons.
• Capturing the loading details using the HHT and ensuring the containers are safely secured.

This step is crucial for preparing shipments for delivery and ensuring that Transnet Freight Rail’s cargo operations run without errors.

3. Control Stacking and De-stacking of Containers

Managing the stacking and de-stacking of containers is another essential responsibility of the Trainee Cargo Coordinator. Key tasks include:

• Verifying stack allocations and ensuring safe stacking procedures are followed.
• Recording stack locations and ensuring they align with safety regulations.
• Overseeing the physical stacking process and ensuring that the cargo is stacked securely.

Maintaining an organized stacking system is essential for optimizing space and ensuring the safety of both workers and cargo.

4. Safety Compliance

As a Transnet vacancy, safety is a top priority, and the Trainee Cargo Coordinator will be responsible for adhering to all safety procedures. This includes:

• Responding to any safety incidents or unsafe practices immediately.
• Participating in safety symposiums and reporting any accidents or near misses to supervisors.
• Ensuring all safety protocols are followed in every stage of cargo handling.

Safety is paramount in cargo operations, and this role offers trainees the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of workplace safety in a high-stakes environment.

5. In-Gate and Out-Gate Check of Road Haulers

The Trainee Cargo Coordinator will also be involved in inspecting road haulers entering or exiting the terminal. Key responsibilities include:

• Verifying export documentation provided by clients.
• Checking the condition of containers, including seal numbers, damages, and container type.
• Capturing the in-gate and out-gate process details into the NaVis system, ensuring accurate record-keeping.

These checks are critical for ensuring that all shipments are properly documented and that containers are in good condition before transport.

6. Weighbridge Operations

The role also involves operating the weighbridge, where you will:

• Weigh containers and record the data accurately in the weighbridge system (Klerkscale).
• Verify the details of the containers and ensure the information is correctly captured in the NaVis system.
• Print the weight slip and ensure it is attached to the correct documentation.

Weighing and documenting container weight is a critical task to ensure the correct handling and transportation of goods.

Qualifications and Experience

To apply for this Transnet vacancy, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Educational Requirements:

• A Grade 12 (Matric) certificate is mandatory.

Experience:

• While no previous experience is required, candidates must be willing to undergo Cargo Coordinator training and be assessed for competence in cargo handling procedures.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioural risk assessments.
• Meeting specific physical, hearing, vision, and mental fitness criteria, as verified through medical tests.

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for someone looking to build a career in cargo handling and logistics, even if they do not have prior experience.

Competencies Required

The successful candidate should possess the following competencies:

Knowledge:

• A general understanding of housekeeping rules and personal safety measures.
• Familiarity with terminal safety operating procedures and knowledge of the terminal layout.
• Basic understanding of shunting procedures and hazardous materials.
• Knowledge of first aid and fire-fighting practices.

Skills:

• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to report and maintain accurate records.
• Basic computer skills for operating systems like NaVis and the HHT.

Attributes:

• Attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure.
• A vigilant attitude toward safety and an ability to work well in a team.
• Excellent judgment in critical situations and the ability to make decisions quickly and efficiently.

Working Conditions

As a Transnet vacancy, this position will require working in an active terminal environment. Expect to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as inspecting cargo, overseeing offloading operations, and managing stacking activities. The role may also involve standing for extended periods and operating equipment.

Career Development and Benefits

Transnet Freight Rail offers extensive training for all Trainee Cargo Coordinators, ensuring you are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the logistics and transport industry. Additionally, benefits include:

• A competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for career advancement within Transnet.
• Access to medical coverage and retirement plans.
• Ongoing safety training to ensure that you continue to develop professionally.

This role is a great stepping stone for individuals interested in long-term careers with Transnet Freight Rail, and it allows for both personal and professional growth.

How to Apply

If you are interested in the Transnet vacancy for the Trainee Cargo Coordinator position, make sure to submit your application before the closing date. HR will ensure all applications are reviewed, and the best candidate will be selected for this exciting opportunity.

Note: It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that HR receives the application before the closing date.

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Equity Statement

Transnet Freight Rail is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in its workforce. As such, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in line with the company’s Employment Equity Plan.