Base Controller – Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)

April 12, 2025 admin admin TRANSNET JOBS 0

Base Controller – Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)

Company: Transnet National Ports Authority
Location: Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Date Posted: April 2025
Job Reference Number: req2852
Department: NGQ, Aviation Operations, DNR
Reporting To: Chief Pilot
Job Grade: TNPAH2X
Employment Type: Permanent
Application Closing Date: 14 April 2025

Apply here

About Transnet National Ports Authority

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is a division of Transnet SOC Ltd., responsible for managing and controlling South Africa’s commercial ports system. As a key player in facilitating economic growth, TNPA is committed to delivering high-performance maritime and aviation logistics operations that are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and driven aviation professional to join TNPA’s dynamic Aviation Operations team as a Base Controller at the Richards Bay helicopter base. If you thrive in a high-stakes environment and have a passion for aviation excellence, this role is ideal for you.

Position Overview

As a Base Controller, your main responsibility is to oversee all helicopter aviation operations within the Richards Bay Port (and Cape Town Port where applicable). You will lead a team of aviation and support personnel while ensuring that Transnet’s helicopter pilotage services comply with operational excellence and strict regulatory standards. You will also maintain the base’s readiness for internal and external audits, supervise flight operations, ensure optimal performance of aviation equipment and facilities, and uphold the highest safety and compliance standards as required by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), and the Department of Transport (DoT).

Key Responsibilities

1. Aviation Operational Leadership

  • Coordinate and manage all aviation operations at the Richards Bay and Cape Town helicopter bases.

  • Ensure helicopter operations align with TNPA’s strategic and operational guidelines, supporting the safe and timely movement of maritime pilots.

  • Lead operational planning and scheduling for maximum efficiency and service excellence.

2. Regulatory and Safety Compliance

  • Guarantee full compliance with national aviation laws and port regulations including SACAA, SAMSA, and DoT requirements.

  • Conduct risk assessments, identify safety hazards, and implement risk mitigation strategies.

  • Maintain a constant state of readiness for aviation safety audits.

3. Team Leadership and Development

  • Manage a team of aviation and support staff ensuring a high-performance culture, diversity inclusion, and employee wellbeing.

  • Coordinate training and certification programs for all aviation personnel to maintain high operational standards.

  • Provide coaching, performance feedback, and guidance to staff in alignment with TNPA HR policies.

4. Facility and Equipment Management

  • Ensure that all aviation-related facilities, including helipads, control rooms, and ground handling systems, are well-maintained and operational.

  • Monitor the condition and maintenance schedules of aviation equipment and assets to ensure safety and efficiency.

5. Budget and Resource Management

  • Oversee the budget for the Richards Bay base and ensure that all operations stay within approved financial limits.

  • Monitor and control expenditure while ensuring cost-effective use of resources.

6. Project and Change Management

  • Assist the Chief Pilot and Operations Manager in aviation projects such as infrastructure upgrades, facility licensing, and equipment modernization.

  • Implement process improvements and adopt best practices in aviation operations management.

7. Reporting and Analytics

  • Compile weekly and monthly operational reports for executive review.

  • Analyze threats, trends, and inefficiencies to develop and implement performance improvement plans.

8. Stakeholder Engagement

  • Liaise with internal departments, regulatory authorities, and external service providers to ensure smooth aviation operations.

  • Promote TNPA’s reputation by delivering exceptional service and ensuring aviation operations contribute to the brand’s leadership in logistics.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience

Educational Requirements:

  • A Diploma in Aviation Management or possession of a Commercial Helicopter Pilot License (CPL/H) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL/H) is required.

Experience:

  • At least 8 years of experience in aviation operations (preferably in off-shore and oil & gas environments).

  • Previous experience managing aviation bases or aviation teams is highly advantageous.

  • Strong working knowledge of the South African aviation landscape, especially relating to port logistics and maritime support operations.

Required Competencies and Skills

Core Competencies:

  • Strong decision-making and leadership abilities.

  • High attention to detail and accuracy.

  • Conflict resolution and negotiation skills.

  • Team motivation and performance management.

  • Strategic and analytical thinking.

  • Project and financial management.

Technical Knowledge:

  • In-depth understanding of aviation rules, helicopter operations, and safety standards.

  • Port operations and transportation systems.

  • Asset management and facility administration.

  • Public safety and regulatory compliance (SACAA, SAMSA, DoT).

  • Familiarity with aviation software, digital tools, and communication systems.

Personal Attributes:

  • Results-driven and service-oriented.

  • Safety-conscious with a proactive attitude.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Adaptability to change and ability to perform under pressure.

  • Integrity and professionalism in all business dealings.

Why Work for Transnet?

  • Strategic Impact: Play a key role in South Africa’s port and aviation operations.

  • Professional Growth: Opportunities for further development and training in aviation leadership.

  • Inclusive Culture: Work in a diverse and inclusive environment aligned with South Africa’s Employment Equity goals.

  • Job Security: A permanent role in a reputable state-owned enterprise with competitive benefits.

  • National Significance: Help improve the efficiency and safety of pilotage services across major national ports.

Application Guidelines

Apply here

All applicants must ensure their applications are submitted before the closing date: 14 April 2025. It is the applicant’s responsibility to confirm that their application has been received by HR.

To apply, visit the official Transnet Careers Portal and search using the Job Reference Number: req2852.

Application Requirements:

  • A comprehensive CV reflecting qualifications, experience, and competencies.

  • Certified copies of your ID, relevant academic qualifications, and pilot licenses (if applicable).

  • Contactable references.

Employment Equity

Transnet is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the Organisation.

Join Transnet NPA and help shape the future of South Africa’s aviation and maritime logistics. Take the next step in your career – apply today!

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