At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate container transport operations and ensure customer satisfaction.
- Company: Leading UK transport and logistics firm with a supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, stable career growth, and a Monday to Friday schedule.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in logistics.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport or logistics, strong admin skills, and attention to detail.
Transport Operator
Trafford Park, Manchester M41
Monday to Friday | 8:00am to 5:00pm
Salary: £28,000 - £32,000 DOE
Permanent, Full Time
Our client, a well-established leader within the UK transport and logistics sector, is seeking a Transport Operator to join their busy Container Operations team based at their Manchester office in Trafford Park.
Reporting into the Operations Management team, you will join a close-knit office of four, supporting the efficient planning and administration of container movements while delivering a first-class service to customers, drivers, and key stakeholders.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in transport, logistics, container operations, or traffic planning who is looking to develop their career within a stable and growing business.
The Role
As a Transport Operator, you will be responsible for coordinating and administering container transport operations, ensuring customer requirements are met while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance.
The wider operation runs between 6:00am and 6:00pm, however the successful candidate will primarily work an 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday shift pattern.
Key Responsibilities
- Input customer bookings and jobs onto the TOPS transport management system.
- Monitor delivery performance and communicate any service updates or delays to customers.
- Liaise with shipping lines and port agents regarding export and empty container movements.
- Ensure containers are booked correctly at ports and terminals.
- Respond to customer requests for PODs and interchange documentation.
- Investigate container detention queries and report findings.
- Verify fuel receipts and investigate discrepancies where required.
- Support fleet administration and compliance activities.
- Manage tachograph downloads and Smart Analysis administration.
- Process driver attendance records, WTD information, holiday records, and timesheets.
- Check supplier invoices against purchase orders.
- Promote safe systems of work and support wider operational activities.
About You
To be considered, you'll ideally have:
- Previous experience within a traffic, transport, logistics, or container operations environment.
- Strong administration and organisational skills.
- Experience using transport management systems, ideally TOPS.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong communication and customer service skills.
- The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced operational environment.
- A proactive and professional approach to problem-solving.
Closing Date: 04.09.2026
Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are operating as an employment agency on behalf of its client.
To apply, please follow the application process for the site this job is advertised on or email your CV to
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Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are committed to the selection, recruitment and development of the best people, basing judgements solely on suitability for the job. Whilst we endeavour to respond to all applications individually, due to high volumes, this is not always possible. Thank you for your interest in this role and we look forward to working with you in the future.
Transport Planner in Manchester employer: Hawk 3 Talent Solutions
Hawk 3 Talent Solutions is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Plymouth where proactive individuals can thrive. With a comprehensive benefits package and a strong focus on employee growth, this role not only supports senior management but also provides opportunities for long-term career development in a collaborative and supportive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transport Planner in Manchester
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like Hawk 3 Talent Solutions.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by Hawk 3 Talent Solutions. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Transport Planner in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Hawk 3 Talent Solutions, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at Hawk 3 Talent Solutions and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into Hawk 3 Talent Solutions. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawk 3 Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at Hawk 3 Talent Solutions.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to Hawk 3 Talent Solutions.