Transnet is looking for motivated young people to join its Trainee Controller Learnership 2026. The deadline is fast approaching – you have until 6 October 2026 to submit your online application.
What is the Trainee Controller Learnership?
The programme trains you to control the safe and efficient movement of petroleum products through Trans‑Net’s pipeline network. You will work with specialist equipment, follow scheduled programmes and meet both internal and external customer requirements.
Who can apply?
There are two entry routes:
- Route 1 – Grade 12: You must have a National Senior Certificate with Mathematics AND Physical Science.
- Route 2 – N3 Technical Engineering: You need an N3 qualification in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical or Metering Control & Instrumentation engineering.
In addition, you must meet the following:
- Valid Code 08–10 driver’s licence.
- Pass a competency assessment (technical ability, numeric, verbal and abstract reasoning).
- Good command of English.
All requirements are listed in the official vacancy (reference req5963). If you do not meet any of them, you are not eligible.
What will you learn?
The learnership covers a range of specialised topics, including:
- Pipeline operations and product movement.
- Risk and pollution control – reporting, permits, leak detection.
- Handling trans‑mixtures and inter‑mixtures using control software.
- Minor maintenance – testing, lubrication and small repairs.
- Launching and receiving pigs and spheres.
- Product metering and accurate measurement.
- Planned pipeline shutdowns.
- Product‑quality testing.
By the end of the programme you will have practical skills that are in demand across the energy, logistics and engineering sectors.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Gather your documents: National Senior Certificate or N3 certificate, driver’s licence, ID, and any transcripts.
- Visit the official Transnet recruitment portal and locate vacancy req5963.
- Complete the online application form. Enter your qualifications exactly as they appear on your certificates.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
- Submit before the closing date (6 October 2026) and keep a screenshot of the confirmation page.
Official application link: Apply for the Transnet Trainee Controller Learnership – req5963
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your Grade 12 result shows both Mathematics and Physical Science.
- If you use the N3 route, confirm that your specialty matches one of the four fields listed above.
- Practice basic numeric, verbal and abstract reasoning tests – many free resources are available online.
- Make sure your driver’s licence is valid for the Code 08–10 category.
- Proofread your application; any typo in the qualification details can lead to rejection.
- Do not wait until the last day – submit a few days early to avoid technical glitches.
Next steps
If you are eligible, take the time to prepare your documents and submit the application today. While you wait for a response, consider other similar programmes such as the Northam Booysendal learnerships, Valterra Platinum Engineering learnership, or the Mpumalanga National Youth Service. Exploring these options through the SETA SA platform can give you a broader career plan.
Remember: one application is rarely enough to secure a job. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep applying. Good luck!
