At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive shunter vehicles and manage trailer movements to ensure smooth operations.
- Company: Join Pilgrims Europe, a leader in food production with iconic brands.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full training, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for progression in a vibrant workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that delivers quality food enjoyed by millions.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence, good numeracy skills, and experience in despatch.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are currently seeking a Shunter Driver & Despatch Operative to join our team at Pilgrims Europe, Craigavon. This role is essential in supporting the efficient movement of trailers and ensuring customer orders are picked, prepared, and dispatched safely and accurately.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Pick orders in line with customer requirements
- Book out orders using Remote Desktop Manager, Marel scanners, and Innova systems
- Build pallets and load lorries in accordance with customer specifications
- Use correct manual handling techniques at all times
- Apply FIFO (First In, First Out) and UB date procedures
- Maintain high standards of hygiene within the working area
- Report returns and out-of-date stock to the Team Leader
- Carry out additional Despatch duties as required
Shunter Responsibilities:
- Maintain the flow of trailers across the Craigavon factory to meet production and dispatch schedules
- Supply pre-prepared empty trailers and position incoming trailers for loading/unloading
- Set and monitor trailer temperatures (0C for chill, -25C for frozen) and maintain accurate records
- Supervise preloaded trailers and complete temperature logs prior to departure
- Ensure trailers are fuelled and ready for use, topping up where necessary
- Inspect trailers and shunter units for damage and report defects promptly
- Hook trailers to electric points where possible to reduce fuel usage and emissions
- Liaise with Despatch Managers to coordinate trailer movements
- Conduct daily checks on shunter units (oil, water, etc.) and fridge trailer fuel levels
Health & Safety
- Follow all Health & Safety procedures, SOPs, and site rules
- Adhere to traffic management systems, including Red/Green light controls
- Work safely and responsibly at all times
Essential:
- Ability to read and write in English
- Good numeracy skills
- Full UK driving licence held for a minimum of 2 years with fewer than 3 penalty points
- Experience using RDM systems, scanners, and Innova
- Previous Despatch and picking experience (including FIFO/UB dates)
- Knowledge of refrigerated trailers
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good manual dexterity
Desirable:
- Previous shunter driving experience
- Ability to complete and understand paperwork
- Knowledge of Health & Safety systems
- Basic IT skills
- Experience with PPT, Reach, Counterbalance, or Scissor Lift
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate of pay
- Full training and development opportunities
- Supportive team environment with opportunities for progression
The company Pilgrims Europe produces some of the best-known and most iconic brands in the UK and Ireland, including Fridge Raiders, Rollover, Denny, Richmond, Oakhouse and Moy Park, alongside a diverse range of industry leading own-label products in categories including fresh pork, lamb and chicken, working with all the major retailers and food service outlets. Our portfolio extends to authentic chilled and frozen ready meals, snacking ranges, added value and food service products. Across Pilgrims Europe we combine 20,000 of the best people in the industry, united by a shared set of core values and a passion for producing the highest quality, most delicious and innovative food, which is enjoyed by millions of people in the UK, Ireland and Europe every day.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative in London
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Pilgrims Europe and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Pilgrims Europe!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Pilgrims Europe keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Pilgrims Europe:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Pilgrims Europe. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Pilgrims Europe.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Pilgrims Europe that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Pilgrims Europe. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
