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Transnet is looking for a Pilot to work from Richards Bay. This is a permanent post at grade F in Transnet National Ports Authority, reporting to the Deputy Harbour Master, and it was posted on 29 October 2026. The original listing does not show a closing date, so applicants should check the listing and apply promptly.
About the company and the work
Transnet National Ports Authority manages South Africa’s ports, and this role sits in the RCB, Nautical Services department at Richards Bay. A harbour pilot’s primary duty is to use skill and knowledge to protect the ship from collision, grounding and other hazards by providing accurate and timely navigational advice to the vessel master. Where approved by the master, the pilot may also safely conduct the navigation and manoeuvring of the vessel while it is in pilotage waters.
Role details and duties
The Pilot is responsible for manoeuvring vessels within port limits with due regard for the safety of the vessel, its crew and the environment; ensuring the safe and efficient docking, undocking and shifting of vessels within port limits; keeping operational contingency plans available at all times, as good seamanship dictates; and providing the master with an efficient service by sharing professional ship-handling skills and local knowledge. Day-to-day outputs include working to the jobs-per-pilot ratio against actual shipping, striving for zero delays, keeping incident and accident records, attending meetings, being willing to work after hours, managing assets and making efficient use of tugs, completing reports, attending monthly safety meetings, implementing OSHAS, staying compliant with ISO 9001 and 14001, providing customer satisfaction, and conducting and completing job observations.
Requirements
Applicants must be a qualified Pilot holding a licence from any South African port, with STCW Class 3 certification or an equivalent. A minimum of 12 months of sea-going experience on foreign vessels is required, along with 12 months of experience as a Tug Boat Master and a Master Port Operations certification. Knowledge listed on the posting includes shift systems and scheduling, applicable legislation, risk and occupational safety, quality management systems, statutory and regulatory bodies, business performance principles, corporate governance, operational and business planning, NOSA, ISO and the OHS Act, marine operations and services, the Merchant Shipping Act, MARPOL and the IMDG code, and SAMSA port marine operations related legislation. Skills listed include integrity, tolerance of ambiguity, change orientation, appreciation of diversity, attention to detail, business acumen, service orientation, being outputs and results driven, team building and playing, and being safety oriented.
Where to find this job and apply safely
This job is listed on Transnet’s official talent portal. Use the Apply button on this page, which takes you to the original Transnet listing. Transnet never asks job seekers for a fee, and any such request is fraudulent. Suspicious requests can be reported to the Transnet anti-fraud line on 0800 003 056 or to [email protected].
Practical tips
Show the pilot licence and STCW Class 3 certification clearly, state the 12 months of sea-going experience and the 12 months as Tug Boat Master separately, and mention the Master Port Operations certification. Highlight port manoeuvring, docking and shifting work, tug use, and safety and ISO compliance experience, and apply promptly, since the listing shows no closing date.
How the process works
Applications go through Transnet’s talent portal and are assessed against the stated requirements. Transnet notes that if you have not heard from them within 90 days, the application should be considered unsuccessful. Only the original listing can confirm later steps in the process.
Important information
This post is shared for information only. The role is permanent, based in Richards Bay, at grade F, and preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants who are members of designated groups, in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the organisation and operating division. Details and availability can change, so verify them on the original listing before applying.
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