Transnet has opened applications for its Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Programme 2026/2027, offering practical workplace experience to qualifying unemployed South African youth, TVET College students and engineering students.
The programme provides an opportunity for candidates to gain valuable workplace exposure, mentorship and practical experience related to their studies.
There are two opportunities available: the Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme and the Work Integrated Learner – Technical/Engineering Programme.
Applications close on 09 September 2026.
Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026/2027
The Transnet Corporate Centre is recruiting trainees for its Work Integrated Learning Programme. The programme is designed to help students and recent graduates apply their academic knowledge in a real workplace environment.
Successful candidates will receive practical exposure while working under the guidance of experienced Transnet employees.
The opportunities are available at selected locations in South Africa, including Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Kimberley and Johannesburg, depending on the programme.
1. Transnet Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner Programme
Reference Number: req5790
The Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner opportunity is aimed primarily at qualifying TVET College students who have completed the required theoretical subjects and need workplace exposure.
The programme is available in:
Cape Town
Durban
Port Elizabeth
Kimberley
The programme duration is 18 months.
Fields of Study
Applicants should have completed relevant N4 to N6 theoretical studies in:
Human Resources
Financial Management
Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Have a Matric certificate or equivalent.
Have completed N4 to N6 theoretical subjects at a TVET College.
Be studying or have studied Human Resources or Financial Management.
Be a South African citizen.
Be between 18 and 35 years old.
Not have a bursary obligation with another company.
Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates with disabilities.
2. Transnet Work Integrated Learner – Technical/Engineering
Reference Number: req5789
The Technical/Engineering WIL opportunity is designed for qualifying engineering students who have completed their required theoretical coursework and need practical workplace experience.
The programme is available in:
Durban
Johannesburg
The programme duration is 12 months.
Engineering Fields
Candidates may apply if they have studied one of the following disciplines:
BEng Tech or S4-S5 qualification/study level as specified in the vacancy.
Completed the required theoretical coursework in a relevant engineering discipline.
South African citizenship.
Age between 18 and 35 years.
No bursary obligation with another company.
A recent confirmation letter from their institution.
People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
What Is the Purpose of the Transnet WIL Programme?
The main purpose of the Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme is to provide students with practical workplace experience that complements their academic studies.
Participants may work alongside experienced employees and gain exposure to the day-to-day activities of a large organisation.
The experience can help participants develop professional skills and improve their readiness for future employment.
What Will Transnet WIL Learners Do?
Depending on their placement and field of study, successful candidates may be required to assist with various workplace activities.
These may include:
Supporting departmental projects.
Assisting with operational tasks under supervision.
Providing administrative support.
Preparing documents and reports.
Participating in training sessions.
Attending workshops and mentorship activities.
Shadowing experienced employees.
Supporting problem-solving activities.
Assisting with research and data collection.
Preparing presentations.
Supporting process improvement projects.
Interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
Providing progress updates on assigned work.
Following company policies and safety procedures.
Maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
The exact duties may differ according to the department and programme.
Skills and Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate a willingness to learn and the ability to work professionally in a team environment.
Useful skills include:
Written communication.
Verbal communication.
Basic computer skills.
Teamwork.
Problem-solving.
Attention to detail.
Interpersonal skills.
Time management.
Willingness to learn.
Professional conduct.
Engineering applicants should also be prepared to apply their technical knowledge in a practical workplace environment.
Documents Required for the Transnet WIL Application
Applicants should prepare the required supporting documents before starting their online application.
Confirmation letter from the educational institution, where required.
For TVET applicants, the academic record should clearly show completion of the required theoretical subjects.
Engineering applicants should ensure that their documentation confirms that they have completed the required theoretical coursework.
Applicants should carefully check the official vacancy before submitting their application because document requirements may vary between the two opportunities.
How to Apply for Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026/2027
Applications must be submitted online through the Transnet Talent Portal.
Non-Technical WIL Learner – Reference req5790
TVET College applicants interested in Human Resources or Financial Management should apply for the vacancy using reference req5790.
Applicants should select the vacancy that matches their field of study and ensure that all information provided is accurate.
Transnet WIL Application Closing Date
The closing date for both Work Integrated Learning opportunities is:
09 September 2026
Candidates should not wait until the final day to apply. Online applications should be submitted early enough to avoid technical problems or missing documentation.
Who Should Apply?
The Transnet WIL Programme may be suitable for South African youth who need practical workplace experience as part of their academic or career development.
The Non-Technical WIL Programme is particularly relevant to qualifying TVET College students who have completed N4-N6 studies in Human Resources or Financial Management.
The Technical/Engineering WIL Programme is aimed at engineering students who have completed the required theoretical coursework in one of the listed disciplines.
Applicants must also meet the stated age, citizenship and bursary-obligation requirements.
Why Apply for the Transnet WIL Programme?
Workplace experience can make an important difference when entering the South African job market.
The Transnet programme gives participants the opportunity to:
Gain practical workplace exposure.
Apply classroom knowledge to real workplace activities.
Learn from experienced employees.
Develop professional communication skills.
Improve teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
Build workplace confidence.
Gain experience relevant to their field of study.
Strengthen their CV for future employment opportunities.
For TVET and engineering students, WIL experience can also help demonstrate that they are ready to move from theoretical learning into a professional working environment.
Employment Equity
Transnet states that preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups in line with its Employment Equity Plan and targets.
People with disabilities are specifically encouraged to apply.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection, as candidates will still be subject to the organisation’s recruitment and selection process.
Important Things to Remember Before Applying
Before submitting your application, make sure that:
You meet the requirements for the specific WIL programme.
You are between 18 and 35 years old.
You are a South African citizen.
Your academic record confirms the required coursework.
Your supporting documents are ready.
You do not have a bursary obligation with another company.
You use the correct reference number.
You submit the application before 09 September 2026.
TVET students should apply for req5790, while qualifying engineering students should use req5789.
Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026/2027 – Summary
Programme
Reference
Duration
Locations
Fields
Work Integrated Non-Technical Learner
req5790
18 months
Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Kimberley
HR, Financial Management
Work Integrated Learner – Technical/Engineering
req5789
12 months
Durban, Johannesburg
Engineering disciplines
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Transnet WIL Programme open to South African youth?
Yes. The advertised opportunities require applicants to be South African citizens and aged between 18 and 35 years.
How long is the Transnet WIL Programme?
The duration depends on the programme. The non-technical opportunity runs for 18 months, while the technical/engineering opportunity runs for 12 months.
Which TVET qualifications are required?
The non-technical programme is aimed at candidates who have completed N4-N6 theoretical subjects in Human Resources or Financial Management.
Which engineering fields can apply?
The advertised technical opportunity includes Electronics, Electrical Heavy Current, Mechanical, Civil, Industrial, Physical Metallurgy and Chemical Engineering.
What is the closing date?
Applications close on 09 September 2026.
Can applicants with disabilities apply?
Yes. Transnet specifically encourages people with disabilities to apply, and preference may be given to designated groups in accordance with its Employment Equity Plan.
Conclusion
The Transnet Work Integrated Learning Programme 2026/2027 offers an important opportunity for qualifying TVET College and engineering students to gain practical workplace experience.
With opportunities in Human Resources, Financial Management and several engineering disciplines, the programme provides exposure to a professional working environment while allowing participants to develop skills that can support their future careers.
If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents carefully and apply using the correct Transnet vacancy reference before the 09 September 2026 closing date.
