Second Engineer - Port Operations
Operating Division:Transnet NPA Employee Group:Permanent Department:CWN, F&B, Ops, Engineering Team A Location:Cape Town Reporting To:Marine Technical Manager Grade:TNPAI1X Reference:req5897
The closing date is on 25/09/2026. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date of the advertisement.
Position Purpose
Position Outputs
Carry out independent watchkeeping duties in the engine room
Assist with ensuring the correct operation and running of machinery in the
engineroom.
Carry out tasks and functions as directed by the Chief Engineer
Carry out routine visual inspection of machinery and equipment as required.
Take necessary readings and soundings as required.
Record the results of all readings, soundings and inspections as
required in the relevant logbook.
Report any anomalies discovered on machinery and equipment to
the Chief Engineer.
Ensure liquid and pressure levels are correct in all Machinery.
Top-up liquid levels in machinery as required.
Monitor running machinery as required.
Assist with the Safe and efficient operation of Machinery.
Prepare main propulsion machinery for start-up.
Start up and maintain efficient operation of generators/alternators as
directed.
Assist with emergency shutdowns as required.
Maintain and repair equipment as required.
Repair and maintain equipment as required.
Disassemble equipment and machinery.
Reassemble equipment and machinery.
Replace defective items on machinery and equipment.
Testing of equipment and machinery as required.
Maintain cleanliness in area of responsibility.
Ensure all waste is cleaned out of the engine room.
Ensure all equipment and materials are cleaned and properly stowed away
after use.
Ensure all machinery is cleaned properly.
Ensure engine room is properly clean and wiped down.
Ensure all spillages are properly cleaned up.
Train AB Deck and Engineroom as and when required.
Qualifications and Experience
Qualifications & Experience: • Certificate of competency as Second Engineer(Port Operations) OR • Motorman HG issued in terms of the Merchant Shipping Act.
Competencies
Competencies Required: Computer literate Report writing Knowledge required: • Risk & occupational safety • Quality management systems • Statutory/regulatory bodies • Environmental management principles • NOSA, ISO, OHS Act • Marine Operations/Services • Merchant Shipping Act- • SAMSA port marine operations related legislation Skills Required: • Leadership • Decision making • Communication • Building relationship • Managing subordinate • Ability to solve practical technical problems. • Procedures and work instructions (SHE integrated Management System, Quality Management System) • Knowledge of life-saving equipment/appliances • Safety techniques/equipment • Record-keeping • Emergency and evacuation procedures. • Marine plant, machinery and equipment • Watch-keeping procedures • Marine environment • Housekeeping
Equity Statement
Preference will be given to suitably qualified Applicants who are members of the designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation/Operating Division.
Disclaimer
If you have not heard from Transnet within 90 days, please consider your application as unsuccessful.
Transnet, its employees or representatives never ask for a fee from job seekers. Any such requests are fraudulent. Please report any suspicious activities in this regard to the Transnet anti-fraud line on 0800 003 056 or email reportit@ethicshelpdesk.com

As the custodian of ports, rail and pipelines, Transnet’s objective is to ensure a globally competitive freight system that enables sustained growth and diversification of the country’s economy.
As a state-owned company, Transnet continues to leave an indelible mark on the lives of all South Africans. With a geographical footprint that covers our entire country, Transnet is inextricably involved in all aspects of life in South Africa. Through the Transnet Foundation - which is the Corporate Social Investment arm of Transnet - we have invested time and money in several diverse programmes around the country that provide much-needed succour to our communities.
Looking ahead, Transnet is focused on modernizing infrastructure, driving growth, and enhancing efficiency through strategic partnerships.
Our vision is clear: to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economic aspirations through sustainable growth and modernization.