Pilot

About this role

Transnet is recruiting a Pilot for its Nautical Services team in Richards Bay, part of the Operating Division. The role keeps ships safe while they move in and out of the port and within port waters.

What you’ll do

• Give ship masters accurate, timely navigation advice to protect vessels from collisions, groundings and other hazards.
• Take control of navigation and manoeuvring in pilotage waters when the master approves.
• Manoeuvre vessels within port limits with safety of the ship, crew and environment in mind.
• Oversee the safe and efficient docking, undocking and shifting of vessels within port limits.
• Keep operational contingency plans ready at all times, and share your ship-handling skills and local knowledge with masters.
• Complete incident and accident records, reports and job observations, and attend meetings and monthly safety meetings.
• Work to reduce delays, use tugs efficiently, and support quality, safety and environmental management systems (ISO 9001 and 14001).

What you need

• A pilot licence from any South African port.
• STCW Class 3 certification or an equivalent.
• Master Port Operations certification.
• At least 12 months of sea-going experience on foreign vessels.
• At least 12 months of experience as a tug boat master.
• Knowledge of applicable legislation, including the Merchant Shipping Act, MARPOL, the IMDG Code, the OHS Act and SAMSA port marine operations rules.
• Knowledge of NOSA, ISO and occupational health and safety standards.
• Strong attention to detail, a safety mindset and a willingness to work after hours.
• Good teamwork, service focus and an ability to cope with change and uncertainty.

Is this job for you?

This job suits an experienced marine professional who has already worked as a tug master and at sea on foreign ships. You should be comfortable making safety-critical decisions and working shifts, including after hours.

Tips before you apply

• Have copies of your pilot licence, STCW certificate and Master Port Operations certificate ready to upload.
• List your sea-going dates, vessel types and tug master roles clearly, so the 12-month requirements are easy to check.
• Show examples of safety records, incident reporting or contingency planning from your past work.

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