Transnet Learnership 2026: Railway and Engineering Jobs

Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport and logistics company, offers learnerships to young South Africans who want workplace experience in railway, port, and engineering careers in 2026. 

These structured programmes allow learners to gain real industry exposure, develop practical skills, and improve future employability in the transport and infrastructure sectors. 

What Is the Transnet Learnership 2026?

The Transnet Learnership 2026 is a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme that places learners in real work environments across freight rail, engineering, and port operations. 

The programme combines structured training with hands-on experience to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace requirements. 

Learners work under supervision, receive guidance from experienced professionals, and participate in projects that build technical and professional skills.

Which Engineering and Railway Jobs Are Available?

For 2026, Transnet’s learnership opportunities focus on technical engineering disciplines such as electrical (heavy current), mechanical, and electronics engineering. 

These roles are part of Transnet’s Technical Work Integrated Learnership (WIL) programmes aimed at developing future engineers and technical professionals who can support rail operations and maintenance.

There are also non-technical learnerships that offer workplace exposure in business functions, such as human resources and financial management, but the engineering and railway roles remain the most competitive.

Who Can Apply for Transnet Learnerships in 2026?

To qualify for Transnet’s engineering and railway learnerships, applicants must meet several basic criteria:

1. Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
2. Be between 18 and 35 years old.
3. Have a Matric certificate (Grade 12).
4. Have completed the theoretical portion of your engineering qualification (S4–S5) in fields such as mechanical, electrical (heavy current), or electronics engineering.
5. Not be bound by a bursary obligation to another company.

Preference is often given to persons with disabilities in line with employment equity goals.

What Documents Do You Need for Your Application?

When applying for a Transnet learnership, you should prepare and upload the following documents:

1. A certified copy of your Matric certificate.
2. A certified copy of your South African ID.
3. Academic records/statement of results showing completion of your engineering coursework.
4. A confirmation letter from your institution (if applicable).

Ensuring that your documents are properly certified and clear will help prevent your application from being rejected on technical grounds.

When Does the Transnet Learnership Application Open and Close?

For the 2026 intake, Transnet’s Technical Work Integrated Learnership Programme had closing dates around 16 January 2026 or similar early-year deadlines, though specific learnership posts may vary by region and department.

Applications are strictly time-bound. Closing dates listed on the official Transnet careers portal or learnership advertisements are final, and late applications are generally not accepted.

How Do You Apply for a Transnet Learnership?

To apply for the Transnet Learnership 2026:

1. Visit the official Transnet careers portal and locate the learnership posts for 2026.
2. Create a profile and complete the online application form.
3. Upload certified copies of your ID, qualifications, academic records, and other required documents.
4. Review all information for accuracy before submitting your application.

Check your profile regularly for updates or interview invitations.

What Happens After You Apply?

After the closing date, Transnet screens applications to confirm eligibility and completeness.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or assessments. 

Successful applicants begin their 12-month learnership, receiving on-the-job training, mentorship, and practical experience. 

Completing the programme strengthens your employability, though permanent employment with Transnet after graduation is not guaranteed.