Train Driver and Assistant

A train driver is in charge of and drives steam, electrical or diesel locomotives to transport passengers and freights.

• Inspecting locomotives before commencing a journey, for example, the coupling between locomotives.



• Monitoring the speed, temperature and steam input gauges closely and checking the fuel.
  


• Controlling the train during trip and during shunting operations, by watching the numerous controls and the signals along the line to keep the train in control.



• Correctly interpreting all signals and hand signals that can be given, for example, flag signals of the conductor, hand signals of shunters and speed-limiting signals.



• Repairing minor locomotive defects to promote safety and exercise loss control.

Requirements
 
Secondary Education
Possession of at least a Grade 10 certificate, or equivalent, is required to be employed as a junior train assistant. Candidates are also expected to obtain a pass mark of 80% on theoretical and practical tests before being appointed permanently.
 
The minimum requirements for a senior assistant is a Grade 8 certificate, or equivalent, plus three years experience as a train assistant or shunter. Candidates must first be appointed as a trainee senior train assistant and can advance to become a train driver after two years of experience as senior train assistant.

Tertiary Education
The career path of a Train Driver proceeds from train assistant to train driver.
All new entrants will receive theoretical and practical in-service training at TransNamib Rail. Candidates will have to pass a medical test and a psychometric classification test battery.

After three years of experience in the position of train assistant the candidate can write a follow-up examination. If 80% are obtained, he/she can be promoted to the position of train driver. Train drivers have to re-write a revision test every two years, and pass a mid-test and an efficiency test every four years.

Personality
The prospective train driver or assistant should be a mature, reliable, sober and responsible person. He/she should be able to make decisions and act rapidly.

Work Opportunities
The train driver and assistant are employed by TransNamib Holdings. No self-employment opportunities exist.

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