At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive shunter vehicles and manage trailer movements while ensuring safe order dispatch.
- Company: Join Pilgrim's Europe, a leader in food production with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, full training, and opportunities for career progression.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with a focus on health and safety.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that keeps operations running smoothly and efficiently.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence, good numeracy skills, and experience in despatch operations.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 € per hour.
We are currently seeking a Shunter Driver & Despatch Operative to join our team at Pilgrim's 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- Report returns and out-of-date stock to the Team Leader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 (0°C for chill, -25°C 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
Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative in Portadown employer: Pilgrims Europe
At Pilgrim's Europe in Craigavon, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values our team members and their growth. With a competitive hourly rate, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture, we ensure that our Shunter Drivers and Despatch Operatives have the tools and opportunities to thrive in their roles while contributing to a vital part of our operations. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your efforts directly impact customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative in Portadown
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Pilgrim's Europe on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to shunter driving and despatch operations. We can even role-play with a friend to boost our confidence and nail those answers!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience with RDM systems or handling refrigerated trailers, make sure to highlight that during the interview. We want to demonstrate how we can hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and show our enthusiasm for the role. Let’s make it count!
We think you need these skills to ace Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative in Portadown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Shunter Driver & Despatch Operative role. Highlight any relevant experience you have with order picking, trailer management, and using systems like RDM and Innova. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Skills:In your cover letter, don’t just list your qualifications—show us how you've used them in real situations. Talk about your experience with manual handling techniques or how you’ve maintained hygiene standards in previous roles. We love a good story!
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforwardness, so don’t be afraid to get straight to the facts!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to upload your CV and cover letter directly. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Europe
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key duties and responsibilities of a Shunter Driver and Despatch Operative. Familiarise yourself with terms like FIFO, manual handling techniques, and the systems mentioned in the job description. This will show that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Show Off Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience with despatch and picking, especially if you've worked with RDM systems or refrigerated trailers. Use specific examples to illustrate how your skills align with what they’re looking for. This is your chance to shine!
✨Safety First
Since health and safety is a big part of this role, brush up on relevant procedures and regulations. Be ready to talk about how you’ve adhered to safety protocols in past jobs. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how success is measured in the role. It shows that you’re genuinely interested and engaged, which can set you apart from other candidates.