Introduction

Transnet Port Terminals is inviting suitably qualified South African candidates to apply for the Work Integrated Technical Learner: Plumber opportunity in Durban and Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This programme is intended for recently qualified plumbing artisans who have completed their trade test and are looking for practical workplace experience to strengthen their technical skills.

The programme offers a structured opportunity to apply plumbing knowledge in a professional working environment while gaining exposure to maintenance, repairs, fault diagnosis and workplace safety procedures. Successful candidates will participate in an Artisan in Training Programme lasting 24 months, during which they will develop their practical abilities and gain experience relevant to their trade.

This opportunity is particularly suitable for young, qualified plumbers who have limited work experience and want to improve their readiness for future employment in the technical and industrial sectors.

Job Details

• Company: Transnet
• Operating Division: Transnet Port Terminals
• Position: Work Integrated Technical Learner: Plumber
• Locations: Durban and Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
• Employee Group: Trainee
• Department: TA FO; DRS & FUNC – Youth Development
• Reporting to: Specialist: Youth Development
• Reference Number: req6012
• Programme Duration: 24 months
• Closing Date: 21 October 2026
• Citizenship Requirement: South African citizen

Position Purpose

The purpose of the Work Integrated Technical Learner: Plumber programme is to give recently qualified plumbing artisans an opportunity to apply their trade knowledge in a real working environment.

Although completing a plumbing trade test demonstrates technical competence, workplace experience is also important for understanding how maintenance activities are planned, how faults are investigated and how repairs are completed safely and efficiently.

Over the 24-month training period, participants will gain exposure to industry-related tasks while developing their practical abilities. The programme is designed to support employability through hands-on learning, mentorship and experience with technical responsibilities.

Learners should be prepared to work under the guidance of supervisors, follow established procedures and demonstrate a willingness to learn. They will also need to understand the importance of accurate reporting, responsible equipment handling and compliance with workplace safety requirements.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria stated in the vacancy advertisement.

The requirements are as follows:

• A Plumber Trade Test Certificate is required.
• The trade assessment must have been completed within the past four years.
• Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Applicants must be South African citizens.

Candidates should carefully check their qualifications and trade assessment dates before applying. Applicants who do not meet the stated requirements may not be considered.

Because the programme is intended for recently qualified artisans with limited experience, applicants should ensure that their employment history accurately reflects their work experience.

Benefits of the Artisan in Training Programme

The advertised programme offers a structured opportunity for recently qualified plumbers to gain practical workplace experience over 24 months.

Potential development opportunities include:

• Applying plumbing trade knowledge to practical workplace tasks.
• Gaining exposure to maintenance and repair activities.
• Developing fault-finding and troubleshooting abilities.
• Learning to follow workplace safety and reporting procedures.
• Improving technical communication and problem-solving skills.
• Gaining experience that may strengthen future employment applications.

Employment Equity Statement

Applicants should ensure that the information provided in their applications is accurate and that they meet the minimum requirements for the position.

Procedures for Submitting an Application to the Transnet Plumber Training Programme

Interested candidates should apply through the official Transnet Talent Portal.

Follow these steps:

1. Open the official Transnet vacancy link.
2. Locate the Work Integrated Technical Learner: Plumber advertisement, reference number req6012.
3. Sign in to your existing account or create a profile if you are a new applicant.
4. Review the vacancy details and confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
5. Complete the online application and provide the information requested on the portal.
6. Ensure that your qualifications, trade test details and personal information are accurate.
7. Submit your application and check that the submission has been completed successfully.

Applicants should follow any additional instructions provided on the official portal and upload supporting documents where requested.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the position being advertised?

Transnet Port Terminals is recruiting Work Integrated Technical Learners specialising in plumbing under its Artisan in Training Programme.

2. Where are the opportunities located?

It also lists the work location as various locations, so applicants should consult the official portal for any specific placement details.

3. How long is the programme?

The Artisan in Training Programme runs for 24 months.

4. Who can apply?

South African citizens aged 18 to 35 who hold a Plumber Trade Test Certificate, completed their trade assessment within the past four years and have less than one year of work experience may qualify.

5. Is a plumbing trade test certificate compulsory?

Yes. The advertisement specifically requires applicants to hold a Plumber Trade Test Certificate.