Train Driver Assistant - Africa Global Logistics

Train Assistant positions is a critical entry-level role within the organization's operations. This position offers a comprehensive training pathway for those seeking a career in the railway transport sector. As part of a dynamic team, the Train Assistant will work closely with the Train Driver to ensure that freight and cargo are transported safely and efficiently across the rail network.

The primary purpose of this role is to assist in the safe handling and operation of various types of trains, from airbrake and vacuum to high-speed, heavy haul, and passenger trains. The position also emphasizes compliance with safety standards, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

The Train Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring that rail operations run smoothly and safely. Below are the main responsibilities associated with the position:

Sign On and Duty Allocation

The first task of the day involves signing on at the designated workplace and receiving a duty allocation for the shift. The Train Assistant will

be required to determine which locomotive needs to be prepared for operation, ensuring all necessary equipment is obtained and placed on the locomotive. This includes checking and supplementing prescribed equipment and cleaning the working area to maintain high safety standards.

Locomotive Preparation

One of the key duties of a Train Assistant is assisting with the preparation of locomotives for service. This includes ensuring that the locomotive is in good working condition, that the equipment is correctly placed, and that all necessary pre-trip checks are conducted. This includes assisting with the startup of the locomotive, performing brake tests, and ensuring the locomotive is coupled properly.

Communication Equipment Setup

Effective communication is crucial in the smooth operation of trains. The Train Assistant will be responsible for ensuring that communication equipment, such as radios, handsets, walkie-talkies, or telemeters, is properly set up, tested, and fully functional. This ensures that there is clear communication between all members of the train crew, including the Train Driver, and helps in the management of train operations.

Pre-Trip Preparation

Before departure, the Train Assistant is tasked with ensuring that the entire train, including the locomotives and wagons, is roadworthy and complies with safety standards. This includes attaching or detaching vehicles according to the work order, mounting telemeters where necessary, and ensuring that train indicators are mounted and operating correctly. The assistant will also participate in conducting brake tests in collaboration with the Train Driver.

Shunting Activities

Shunting refers to the movement of locomotives and wagons within sidings or stations.

Train Assistants are responsible for assisting with shunting activities by obtaining work orders, placing or moving trucks as per the directives, and updating the vehicle list. Shunting is an essential aspect of rail operations and requires precision and attention to detail to avoid disruptions.

Assisting the Train Driver

Throughout the journey, the Train Assistant is expected to support the Train Driver in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of the train. This involves observing signals, patrolling locomotives, resetting locomotive trip-outs, and ensuring that the train runs smoothly without delays. In case of incidents or emergencies, the Trainee Train Assistant will play an active role in protecting the train and assisting the Train Driver in managing the situation.

Adherence to Safety Standards

Safety is a paramount concern in the railway industry, and the Train Assistant is expected to comply with all laid-down safety instructions and procedures. This includes ensuring personal safety and the safety of others in the crew, passengers, and freight, in accordance with health and safety regulations.

Feedback and Reporting

The Train Assistant is required to provide accurate feedback to the Train Driver regarding any incidents or deviations along the route. This ensures that any issues are addressed promptly and that there are no disruptions in service. Additionally, the assistant will be required to complete the Train Journal and submit it to the Section Manager for processing at the end of each shift.

Administrative Duties

While the primary focus of the role is operational, Train Assistants will also be involved in administrative tasks. These duties include completing necessary documentation, ensuring proper record-keeping, and ensuring that all tasks are carried out in a timely and accurate manner.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• A minimum of Grade 12 with Mathematics and/or Physical Science. This ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in essential subjects that are relevant to the technical and safety aspects of the role.
  
• The candidate must be willing to undergo periodic medical surveillance and safety behavioral risk assessments without the selection process and at regular intervals thereafter (annually).
  
• The candidate must meet the physical fitness requirements, which include tests for hearing, vision, mental fitness, and overall physical health.
• This is essential to ensure that the candidate can perform the physical demands of the role.
  
• A minimum height requirement of 1.6 meters is stipulated, as this ensures the individual can effectively operate and manage the equipment on the trains.
  
• The candidate must undergo psychomotor ability assessments, which are typically evaluated through the Vienna Testing System (VTS) to assess coordination and reaction times.