Company: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)
Industry: Logistics / Maritime / Government
Job Category: Graduate Internship
Location: Saldanha, Western Cape
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (24 Months)
Remuneration: Market-related (stipend-based)
EE Position: Yes – Preference for designated groups and persons with disabilities
Closing Date: Not specified (Apply as soon as possible)
Introduction
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), a division of Transnet SOC Ltd, is inviting applications for its Graduate Internship Programme 2025 at the Saldanha Port. This programme is aimed at recent graduates seeking workplace exposure, career alignment, and professional growth. Designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience, this internship offers participants a structured 24-month journey to apply their qualifications, gain real-world skills, and contribute meaningfully to TNPA operations.
Job Description
The Graduate Internship Programme places successful applicants under the supervision of experienced professionals within TNPA. Interns will follow a structured training plan aligned to their field of study, career goals, and business needs of the organisation. Through rotation and focused development modules, they will gain valuable insight into port operations, logistics, public relations, and supply chain functions.
Position Outputs
As part of the TNPA internship, selected candidates will be expected to:
- Follow a structured development and training plan within their assigned department
- Participate in performance evaluations and progress reviews throughout the internship
- Take part in hands-on work activities under professional supervision
- Assist in department-specific tasks, including logistics, communication, stakeholder engagement, and procurement
- Adhere to TNPA’s policies, procedures, and professional standards
- Contribute to team deliverables while developing technical and soft skills essential for the workplace
Ideal Candidate
This internship is open to unemployed South African graduates, particularly those residing in the Saldanha Bay Municipality and surrounding areas. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Minimum Requirements:
- South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 35
- Must possess no formal work experience related to their qualification
- Hold a relevant National Diploma or Degree in one of the following fields:
- Supply Chain Management (for placement in Supply Chain Department)
- Public Relations / Journalism / Corporate Communication (for placement in Port Management Department)
- Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Additional Advantageous Requirements:
- Familiarity with basic professional etiquette and teamwork
- Local residency in Saldanha or the surrounding Western Cape area
Role Responsibility
Interns will take on support roles across their assigned departments, contributing to operations while gaining firsthand insight into TNPA’s strategic and operational frameworks. Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting department functions related to supply logistics or communications
- Learning Transnet protocols and systems, including document handling and reporting tools
- Assisting in public-facing or stakeholder coordination efforts (communications stream)
- Coordinating purchase orders, stock control, or tender processes (supply chain stream)
- Participating in team briefings, project coordination, and administrative reporting
Skills and Attributes
Successful applicants must demonstrate the following technical and interpersonal competencies:
- Written and verbal communication: Articulate, clear, and concise communicator
- Problem-solving abilities: Willingness to analyse, adapt, and offer solutions
- Teamwork: Collaborative mindset and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
- Attention to detail: Accuracy in capturing information and completing assigned tasks
- Time management: Prioritising responsibilities effectively under supervision
- Computer literacy:
- Microsoft Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
Position Summary
The Transnet Graduate Internship Programme 2025 – Saldanha Intake is a strategic opportunity for new graduates to enter South Africa’s logistics and infrastructure sector. This 24-month programme equips individuals with the tools, knowledge, and work habits to excel in both public and private sector environments. It also strengthens TNPA’s future talent pool by fostering homegrown professionals ready to support maritime trade and national development.
Interns will benefit from:
- Real-world experience in a high-impact organisation
- Structured mentorship and training aligned to their qualification
- Networking opportunities within a nationally respected logistics group
- A stepping stone into full-time employment upon completion
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Application Instructions
Candidates interested in applying must prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of their ID document
- Certified copy of their Degree or Diploma
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence (to verify locality in the Saldanha Bay area)
- Medical certificate confirming ability to work if applying as a person with a disability
Applicants must clearly indicate their preferred internship stream (Supply Chain or Communications) and ensure all documents are complete and correctly certified. Submissions without full supporting documentation may not be considered.
Transnet is committed to employment equity and reserves the right to prioritise applicants from underrepresented groups. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.
This is more than just an internship – it’s a launchpad into a future built on performance, integrity, and service to South Africa’s economic engine. Apply now and be part of shaping port excellence at TNPA.