Transnet Diesel Mechanic Learnerships 2026 / 2027: 24-Month Artisan Training in KZN
Recently qualified Red Seal Diesel Mechanics can apply for a 24-month Work Integrated Technical Learner programme with Transnet Port Terminals in Richards Bay and Durban.
The programme is aimed at young South African artisans who have already completed their Diesel Mechanic Trade Test and now need practical workplace exposure to strengthen their technical experience and employability.
Applications close on 6 November 2026.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be South African
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Hold a Diesel Mechanic Trade Test Certificate
- Have completed the trade assessment within the past four years
- Have less than one year of work experience
This is therefore not an entry-level apprenticeship for applicants who still need to complete a trade test. Candidates must already be qualified Diesel Mechanics.
What is the purpose of the programme?
The programme is designed to help recently qualified artisans build practical workplace experience after completing their trade qualification.
Participants will have an opportunity to:
- Apply technical knowledge in a real workplace
- Develop practical mechanical skills
- Gain industry-specific experience
- Work under mentorship
- Build confidence in technical tasks
- Improve future employability
The programme runs for 24 months.
Where will the programme take place?
Successful candidates may be placed at Transnet Port Terminals operations in:
- Richards Bay
- Durban
Both locations are in KwaZulu-Natal.
Applicants should therefore be prepared to work in a port-terminal environment.
What kind of technical experience can you gain?
The programme focuses on practical workplace development for Diesel Mechanics.
Participants can expect exposure to technical work relevant to:
- Diesel mechanical systems
- Heavy equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Maintenance
- Fault finding
- Tools and workshop equipment
- Safety procedures
- Port-terminal operations
The exact tasks will depend on operational requirements and the learner’s stage of development.
How does port operations fit into the programme?
Transnet Port Terminals operates large industrial facilities where cargo-handling and terminal equipment must remain safe, reliable and operational.
Diesel Mechanics working in this environment can gain experience relevant to heavy machinery and equipment maintenance.
This gives participants practical exposure beyond a classroom or training-centre environment.
What competency levels will participants develop?
The programme identifies development across three broad competency stages.
Beginner level
Participants will develop:
- Basic understanding of tools
- Basic understanding of safety procedures
Intermediate level
Participants should progress toward:
- Completing tasks independently
- Working with minimal supervision
Advanced level
Participants may develop:
- Strong technical competence
- Ability to supervise others
- Ability to assist with training others
This reflects the programme’s focus on progressive technical development over the 24-month period.
Why is safety important in this programme?
Diesel mechanics can work around heavy equipment, moving machinery, tools and industrial systems.
Participants will therefore need to develop a strong understanding of:
- Workshop safety
- Equipment safety
- Safe tool use
- Workplace procedures
- Hazard awareness
Safety is especially important in a port and industrial maintenance environment.
Do you need previous work experience?
Applicants must have less than one year of work experience.
The programme is aimed at recently qualified artisans who need structured practical exposure after completing their trade qualification.
Does Employment Equity apply?
Yes. Preference may be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups in line with Transnet’s Employment Equity Plan and targets.
What are the programme details?
Employer: Transnet
Operating division: Transnet Port Terminals
Programme: Work Integrated Technical Learner: Diesel Mechanic
Reference: req6108
Locations: Richards Bay and Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Duration: 24 months
Minimum qualification: Diesel Mechanic Trade Test Certificate / Red Seal
Age: 18 to 35
Experience: Less than one year
Closing date: 6 November 2026
How do you apply?
Applications must be submitted through Transnet’s recruitment platform.
Apply for the Transnet Work Integrated Technical Learner: Diesel Mechanic Programme
Use the following details to identify the opportunity:
Reference: req6108
Position: Work Integrated Technical Learner: Diesel Mechanic
Applicants should make sure their application reaches Transnet Human Resources before the closing date.
