Pilot

Transnet Logistics; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 550,000 - 850,000; Full time

Job summary

Transnet NPA in Richards Bay is seeking a Pilot with a SA port license to guide vessel navigation and docking within port limits. The role requires STCW Class 3 or equivalent certification, plus at least 12 months sea-going experience on foreign vessels and 12 months as Tug Boat Master.

The successful candidate will provide expert ship handling, ensure safe port operations, and support the master with timely navigational advice. Prior experience with Master Port Operations is desirable.

Qualifications

• Qualified Pilot with license from any South African port.
• STCW Class 3 certification or equivalent.
• At least 12 months of sea-going experience on foreign vessels.
• 12 months of experience as Tug Boat Master.
• Master Port Operations certification.

Responsibilities

• Maneuver the vessel within port limits with due regard for safety of the vessel, crew and environment.
• Ensure safe docking/undocking and shifting of vessels within port limits.
• Provide master with navigational advice and ship handling skills.
• Be prepared to work after hours as required.
• Contribute to incident/accident record keeping and reporting.

Skills

Pilot license

STCW Class 3

Sea-going experience

Tug Boat Master

Education

Master Port Operations certification

STCW Class 3 certification

Job description

Pilot

Operating Division: Transnet NPA

Employee Group: Permanent

Department: RCB, Nautical Services

Location: Richards Bay

Reporting To: Deputy Harbour Master

Grade: F

Reference: req6146

The closing date is on 09/11/2026. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that HR has received the application before the closing date of the advertisement.

Position Purpose

Candidate to hold a Pilot License from any South African Port.

A pilot’s primary duty is to use his skill and knowledge to protect the ship from collision, grounding and other hazard by providing accurate and timely navigational advice to the vessel master. Where so approved by the master, the pilot may be required to safely conduct the navigation and manoeuvring of the vessel whilst in pilotage waters The pilot is further responsible;

• For the manoeuvring of the vessel within port limits having due regard for safety of the vessel, its crew and the environment.
• Is also there to ensure the safe and efficient docking / undocking and shifting of vessels within port limit.
• Must recognise that the observance of good seamanship dictates that operational contingency plans be available at all times
• Provide the master with an efficient service by sharing with them his professional ship handling ship skills and his local knowledge.

Position Outputs

• Jobs per pilot ( Ratio to actual shipping)
• Strive for zero delays
• Incident/Accidentrecord keepng
• Attendance to meetings
• Willingness to work after hours
• Asset management & efficient use of tugs
• Completion of reports
• Monthly safety meetings
• Implementation of OSHAS
• Iso. 9001 and 14001 Compliant

Provide customer satisfaction

Conducting and completing Job observations

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified Pilot with license from any South African port.- STCW Class 3 certification or equivalent.
• Minimum 12 months of sea-going experience on foreign vessels.
• 12 months of experience as a Tug Boat Master.
• Master Port Operations certification.

Competencies

Knowledge required:

• Shift systems and scheduling
• Applicable legislation
• Risk and occupational safety
• Quality management systems
• Statutory/regulatory bodies
• Business performance principles
• Corporate governance
• Operational and business planning
• NOSA, ISO, OHS Act
• Marine Operations/Services
• Merchant Shipping Act, MARPOL, IMDG code
• SAMSA port marine operations related legislation

Skills Required:

• Integrity
• Tolerance of ambiguity
• Change oriented
• Appreciation of diversity
• Attention to detail
• Business acumen
• Change orientation
• Appreciation for diversity
• Service orientation
• Outputs and results driven
• Team builder/Player Safety oriented

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.