Truck drivers' assistants help truck drivers by performing some of the routine tasks.
They check the condition and safety of vehicles before embarking on journeys. They ensure that brakes, lights, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment are in good working order. They adjust the mirrors so that both sides of the truck are visible from the driver's seat and ensure that defects and necessary repairs are reported.
Truck drivers' assistants supervise and assist with the loading and unloading of goods. They navigate the route, where necessary and help to drive the trucks on long distances trips.
This assistant also deals with the paperwork, ensuring that receipts are signed and the money due for goods is collected.
Satisfying Aspects
- working without close supervision
- taking responsibility for the safety of the truck and its cargo
- generally steady work
- reasonable remuneration
- travelling
Demanding aspects
- working weekends, evenings or holidays
- working under pressure
- driving in rush hour traffic
- being away from home for long periods
- driving in adverse weather conditions
Requirements
A truck driver's assistant should:
- have physical fitness and stamina;
- have excellent eyesight;
- have good perception;
- be responsible with sober habits;
- have mental stability;
- have a mechanical aptitude to perform emergency repairs;
- be able to sit for long hours without losing concentration.
School Subjects
Grade 8 Certificate.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: None
Training
DRIVER TRAINING CENTRE:
The following centres check the performance of the driver, upgrade skills accordingly and offer specialised courses for conveying hazardous substances:
The Operator Training Centre
Emthonjeni Training Centre
Bloemfontein Training Centre
Apex Group Training Centre
Driver Training Scheme at Luipaardsvlei
In-service training:
An experienced truck driver trains the assistant in company policy, preparation and processing of paperwork and handling and maintenance of the truck.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
If you want to become a truck driver's assistant you must:
- be at least 18 years old;
- be in possession of a heavy-vehicle driver's licence (code 10, 11, 13 or 14);
- undergo a medical examination (which is repeated from time to time), to ensure that you are physically fit to do the work.
Employer
- Transport companies
- Spoornet
- Government departments
- Retail food chains
- Companies that need to transport goods
Contact
Any of the above-mentioned training centres or potential employers.
The Public Carriers Association
P O Box 7
Randburg, 2125
The Managing Director
Apex Regional Training Centre
P O Box 1704
Benoni, 1500.