General worker roles at Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) in East London are essential entry-level positions supporting daily port operations. These positions involve manual labor such as loading, unloading, cargo handling, cleaning and assisting maintenance teams and supervisors.
The roles require physically fit, reliable and safety-conscious individuals willing to work shifts including nights, weekends, and public holidays. TNPA provides on-the-job training and opportunities for career development in South Africa’s vital port logistics sector.
These positions are often available to school leavers, students, or individuals transitioning into the workforce. TNPA provides training and development opportunities, making it an attractive option for candidates looking to build a career in the maritime and logistics industry.
Key Responsibilities of General Workers at TNPA
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Cargo Handling Support: Assist with opening/closing twist locks, loading/offloading cargo, and stacking goods per standard operating procedures.
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Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean terminals, warehouses, offices, and ablution facilities to maintain a tidy and safe work environment.
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Operational Support: Perform ad hoc tasks, such as assisting drivers, boilermakers, or machine operators, and supporting general office work.
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Safety and Compliance: Adhere to safety protocols, use correct cargo handling equipment/tools, report hazards, and complete incident reports.
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Team Collaboration: Work with supervisors and colleagues to ensure efficient terminal operations
Salaries for General Workers at Transnet National Ports Authority in East London
General Worker salaries at Transnet in East London earn approximately R10,000–R15,000/month (R120,000–R180,000/year), with potential overtime (R500–R2,000/month).
Data is sourced from Transnet job postings, Indeed, and Salary Magazine, aligned with 2025 market conditions.
Job Type |
Average Monthly Salary (ZAR) |
Average Annual Salary (ZAR) |
Additional Earnings |
---|---|---|---|
General Worker |
R10,000–R15,000 |
R120,000–R180,000 |
Overtime (R500–R2,000/month) |
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Base Salary: General Workers earn R10,000–R15,000/month (R120,000–R180,000/year), with starting salaries around R10,000/month for no-experience candidates.
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Additional Earnings: Overtime pay (R500–R2,000/month) is common due to shift work and cargo volumes in East London.
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Benefits: Include on-the-job training, safety gear, medical aid contributions, provident fund, and career development through Transnet’s programs.
Requirements for General Worker Positions at Transnet National Ports Authority
General Worker roles at TNPA in East London are accessible to candidates with minimal qualifications, focusing on physical ability and a willingness to learn. No prior experience is typically required, though some postings may prefer 6 months of relevant experience (e.g., cargo handling or manual labor).
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Education and Qualifications:
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Minimum Grade 10, though Grade 12 (Matric) is preferred for most General Worker roles.
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No formal certifications required; basic safety training (provided on-the-job) is a plus.
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Experience:
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No prior work experience needed; volunteer work or informal jobs (e.g., community service, manual labor) strengthen applications.
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Familiarity with port operations or maintenance environments is advantageous but not mandatory.
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Skills and Competencies:
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Basic English communication (written and verbal) for instructions and safety compliance.
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Physical fitness to handle manual tasks (e.g., lifting up to 25kg, standing for long periods).
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Teamwork, reliability, and ability to work under pressure in a safety-critical environment.
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Basic knowledge of general hygiene practices and safety protocols.
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Hiring Process for General Workers at Transnet National Ports Authority
To apply for General Worker jobs at Transnet in East London, follow these steps, ensuring compliance with Transnet’s secure application process.
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Prepare Documents:
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Updated CV highlighting Grade 10/12 (if applicable), transferable skills (e.g., teamwork, reliability), and any volunteer/part-time experience.
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Cover letter expressing enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
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Certified copy of Grade 10/12 certificate (if applicable) and South African ID.
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Proof of clear criminal record (obtainable from SAPS).
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Proof of residential address for the last 3 months (e.g., utility bill or affidavit).
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Search for Jobs:
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Transnet Career Portal: Register and apply via jobs.transnet.net for General Worker vacancies in East London under Transnet National Ports Authority. Create a profile, complete all required details, and upload documents.
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General worker positions at Transnet National Ports Authority in East London provide an excellent opportunity for individuals with no prior experience to enter the maritime, logistics and transportation industries. By meeting the necessary requirements and following the application process diligently, you can secure a role that offers valuable skills, competitive pay and opportunities for career advancement.
General Workers Vacancies at Transnet National Ports | Cape Town No Experience
Whether you’re interested in cargo handling, maintenance, security support, or operational tasks, TNPA offers diverse opportunities for individuals eager to start their professional journey.