At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily transport operations and ensure smooth communication with drivers and delivery crews.
- Company: Join a well-established transport and distribution operation in Southampton.
- Benefits: Earn £12.71 per hour with temp to perm opportunities and flexible shifts.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and develop your skills in transport and logistics.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport administration and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12.71 - 12.71 £ per hour.
Location: Southampton
Salary: £12.71 per hour
Employment Type: Temp to Perm
Working Pattern: Rotational shift pattern
Working Hours: This is a rotational role, with working days changing on a weekly basis to support the operational requirements. Flexibility to work weekends and varying shift patterns is therefore essential.
Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced Transport Administrator to join a busy transport operation in Southampton. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the smooth and efficient running of the daily transport operation. You will work closely with drivers, delivery crews, warehouse personnel, transport management and route scheduling teams, helping to ensure that deliveries are completed safely, efficiently and to customer requirements. The role is fast-paced and requires someone who can remain calm under pressure, communicate confidently with drivers and colleagues, and respond quickly to changing operational requirements. A key part of the role will be maintaining regular contact with delivery crews throughout their shifts, providing support when issues arise and ensuring that all relevant information, paperwork, systems and operational records are kept accurate and up to date.
Key Responsibilities
- Transport Administration & Communication: Complete accurate data entry and maintain transport systems and records. Process paperwork and documentation accurately and in a timely manner. Manage email communications throughout the shift. Maintain regular communication with drivers and delivery crews during each shift. Act as a key point of contact for drivers while they are out on the road. Support drivers with issues such as finding delivery locations, parking difficulties, failed or delayed deliveries and other route-related problems. Communicate customer, vehicle and delivery incidents to the Transport Management team. Maintain regular contact with the wider Transport Management and Route Scheduling teams. Follow customer-specific procedures and ensure service requirements are met.
- Daily Transport Operations: Support the dispatch of drivers and delivery crews. Assist with the effective planning and coordination of daily routes. Monitor the progress of delivery crews throughout the shift. Support delivery crews to assist with the successful completion of deliveries. Assist with last-minute rota changes, including sickness cover and route reallocation. Assist with sourcing replacement drivers when required. Respond proactively to changing operational priorities. Escalate operational issues to the appropriate supervisor or Transport Management team.
- Debriefing, Stock & Vehicle Checks: Support the efficient daily debrief of delivery crews, vehicles and stock in line with company and customer requirements. Count and check products against manifests. Complete visual checks for damaged products. Report any excesses, shortages or damage to the appropriate supervisor promptly. Ensure loads are secured effectively, are within applicable weight limits and are presented appropriately. Complete routine interior and exterior vehicle checks in accordance with company procedures. Ensure the secure return of communication devices and other equipment used by delivery crews.
- Health, Safety & Compliance: Maintain a safe working environment and immediately escalate Health & Safety concerns. Work in accordance with company policies, procedures and relevant legislation. Follow all applicable working time requirements. Ensure all work is carried out safely and responsibly. Follow customer-specific Health & Safety and operational procedures. Comply with all local legislative requirements and company policies.
Skills & Experience Required
- Previous experience in a transport, logistics or distribution administration role.
- Strong communication skills and the confidence to communicate with drivers, warehouse teams and management.
- Excellent attention to detail and good numerical skills.
- The ability to accurately count stock and perform basic mathematical calculations.
- Strong IT and administrative skills, with the ability to operate relevant IT systems.
- The ability to read, understand and follow directions, instructions and work procedures.
- A calm, organised and resilient approach to working in a high-pressure environment.
- The ability to deal patiently and professionally with drivers and colleagues who may be stressed or frustrated.
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach to problem solving.
- The ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.
- The ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Knowledge of the local geographical area.
- Experience with Kronos would be desirable.
- A valid driver's licence would be desirable.
Personal Qualities
- This role would suit someone who thrives in a busy transport environment.
- Can manage constant communication throughout their shift.
- Is confident making decisions and solving problems under pressure.
- Has excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Is patient, resilient and professional when dealing with challenging situations.
- Can work independently while also contributing effectively to a wider transport team.
- Is flexible and comfortable working a rotating shift pattern, including weekends.
- Can work effectively within a rapidly changing environment.
The successful candidate must be able to work safely and in accordance with Health & Safety requirements.
Key Working Relationships
- Transport Management Team – providing updates on operational progress, incidents and requirements.
- Drivers & Delivery Crews – providing support throughout their shifts and assisting with delivery-related issues.
- Warehouse Team – coordinating operational requirements and resolving issues.
- Supervisor – receiving direction and support regarding work assignments and operational priorities.
- Route Scheduling Team – supporting effective route planning and changes.
- Health & Safety Team – escalating and addressing relevant Health & Safety matters.
What We Offer
- £12.71 per hour
- Temp to perm opportunity
- Rotational working pattern
- Opportunity to work within a well-established transport and distribution operation
- Supportive recruitment team
- Opportunity to develop your experience within transport and logistics
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone who is reliable, organised, resilient and proactive, with the ability to keep a busy transport operation running smoothly. If you have previous transport or logistics administration experience, are confident dealing with drivers and can remain calm when faced with last-minute changes and operational challenges, we would like to hear from you.
Transport Administrator employer: Flexible People
Flexible People Ltd is an outstanding employer for HGV Class 1 Drivers, offering competitive pay rates and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being. With flexible shift patterns, ongoing work opportunities, and comprehensive training on modern vehicles, drivers can thrive in a professional environment while enjoying the benefits of weekly pay and attendance bonuses. Located in Rugby, this role provides a chance to be part of a leading logistics operation that values reliability and safety.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Administrator
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In transportation and logistics, hands-on experience is golden. If you're looking for a temporary position, don't just sit back; consider volunteering at local logistics companies or joining community transport initiatives. It’s a great way to gain industry insight and showcase your commitment!
✨Tap into Seasonal Hiring
Temporary roles in logistics often peak during busy seasons, like holidays or sales events. Keep an eye out for those hiring windows and brush up on your local networks. Joining industry groups on social media or attending local job fairs can be your golden ticket to snagging a role!
✨Show You’re Flexibly Awesome
Temporary roles often require quick adaptability, so make sure you highlight your flexibility and problem-solving skills in every discussion. When chatting with recruiters or at interviews, be ready to give examples of how you’ve quickly adjusted in past roles—this will help you stand out among other candidates.
✨Hit Us Up Directly!
Don't forget to apply through our website directly to see the freshest temporary opportunities available at Flexible People! It’s always a good idea to follow up after submitting your application, just to show you’re keen on joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Administrator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:When applying for a temporary role in transportation and logistics, it’s crucial to emphasise any previous experience in this field. Whether you've worked as a warehouse operative or in a delivery role, make sure you showcase those skills and experiences that will help you hit the ground running right away!
Focus on Flexibility and Availability:Since this is a temporary position, your availability and flexibility are key. In your cover letter, be clear about when you can start and any scheduling flexibility you might have. Employers love candidates who can jump in without a hitch, so show off that readiness!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certificates related to logistics, like forklift licenses or health and safety training, don’t leave them out! These certifications can give you an edge, showing that you’re not just capable but also qualified for the job. Mention these in your CV to catch the hiring manager’s eye!
Tailor Your CV to Logistics Jargon:When crafting your CV, use industry-specific terms and jargon that reflect your understanding of transportation and logistics. Whether it’s ‘supply chain management’ or ‘route optimisation’, sprinkle these phrases throughout your CV and cover letter. This shows that you’re not just applying at random, but that you know the industry well!
How to prepare for a job interview at Flexible People
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
In the transportation and logistics field, demonstrating your knack for problem-solving can really set you apart. Be ready to talk about specific challenges you’ve faced in past roles or during your studies, especially those involving route planning or supply chain issues, and how you tackled them.
✨Get Familiar with Key Tools
This role will likely involve using industry-specific tools like SAP or Microsoft Excel for logistics management. Brush up on these tools before your interview and be ready to discuss how you've used them in the past – or how you'd approach using them if you're not familiar yet!
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Since this position is temporary, companies are keen on finding someone who can hit the ground running. Share examples from previous roles or projects where you quickly adapted to new processes or worked under tight deadlines to show that you can thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Understand Key Regulations
In the transportation and logistics sector, regulations play a huge role. Familiarising yourself with relevant laws and compliance standards can give you an edge. If you can drop in some specifics about how these impact logistics operations, it’ll show you're serious about the industry and that you can handle the responsibilities of the role with confidence.
