At a Glance
- Tasks: Support transport planning by scheduling drivers and vehicles for efficient deliveries.
- Company: Family-run logistics company with strong values and a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Life assurance, gym discounts, employee discounts, and mental health support.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and personal development.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in logistics while contributing to a greener future.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a willingness to learn and work hard.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Who are we? Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd is a family run business owned and run by the Smith family since 1982. Smiths has grown from a single owner-operated plant hire company to a multifaceted group with family values still firmly at the heart of each project undertaken. With depots in Avonmouth, Cardiff, Gloucester, Stonehouse and Tewkesbury we operate predominately across the South-West of England. We specialise in Construction, Waste Management, Plant Hire, Demolition and Transport operations.
What we're looking for? Someone to support the transport planning team in building efficient daily/weekly schedules for drivers and vehicles, ensuring the safe, compliant and cost-effective delivery of road haulage services. The Trainee Logistics Planner will learn end-to-end planning processes, including route planning, job allocation, customer communication, and administration, while developing the skills required to progress into a Transport Coordinator / Planner role.
Responsibilities for the job role:
- Planning Support & Job Allocation (Training Role)
- Assist planners with daily scheduling of vehicles and drivers to meet customer requirements.
- Learn how to allocate work based on: Vehicle type and availability (e.g., artics, rigids, tippers, hookloaders, flatbeds), Driver hours and legal compliance, Collection/delivery time windows, locations and site constraints.
- Help maintain the live planning board (TMS, spreadsheets, wall board, etc.) ensuring updates are accurate and timely.
- Monitor and update job progress throughout the day (delays, diversions, re-plans, cancellations).
- Customer Service & Communication
- Answer incoming calls and emails professionally, acting as a reliable point of contact for customers, drivers, and sites.
- Provide updates on ETAs, PODs, delays, and collection times in line with service standards.
- Log customer requests accurately and escalate issues to the planner/manager when required.
- Support with booking slots, confirming load details, and ensuring instructions are clear.
- Driver Liaison & Operational Control
- Communicate clearly with drivers on: Job details, start times, route/site requirements, Changes due to traffic, site issues, breakdowns or late loads.
- Learn how to manage day-to-day operational issues including: failed collections/deliveries, missed time slots, on-site refusals, wait time/detention.
- Record issues and actions taken to support investigation, invoicing, and service improvement.
- Compliance & Administration (Supported Learning)
- Assist with accurate completion and filing of operational paperwork, including: delivery notes / PODs, job tickets / consignment notes (where relevant), defect reporting logs.
- Support compliance processes under supervision, such as: driver licence checks / inductions (where applicable), tachograph/card downloads and scanning (depending on company process), proof of delivery and customer billing support.
- Learn the basics of UK transport compliance, including: drivers’ hours rules and working time, vehicle safety checks and defect reporting, transport documentation standards.
- Continuous Improvement & Learning
- Take part in structured on-the-job training with regular progress reviews.
- Build competence in planning tools and systems (TMS, Excel, telematics portals, POD apps).
- Contribute ideas to improve planning efficiency, communication, and customer service.
- Demonstrate increasing autonomy over time (e.g., managing a small fleet, customer group, or specific contract lanes).
What can we offer you?
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Free on-site Parking
- Corporate gym membership discount
- Annual Salary Review
- Employee discount (50% on Skip Hire, other discounts on group services)
- Progression opportunities
- 24 hour unlimited access to mental health support
What are our core values? If these values align with yours you are in the right place!
- Honesty - We believe that honesty in all matters is the best policy.
- Family values - We operate as a family unit with high moral standards, discipline and respect.
- Hardworking - We are certain that nothing is impossible if you work hard enough at it.
- Reliability - We pride ourselves on not letting people down and being true to our word.
- Environmental sustainability - We aim to minimise the impact that our company has on the environment by reducing emissions and waste, and recycling a large proportion of our waste (90% plus). We truly believe in a greener future for generations to come.
Please apply if you are interested in this role and we will come back to you.
Trainee Logistics Coordinator in Gloucester employer: Smith's Gloucester Limited
At Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business that values honesty, hard work, and environmental sustainability. As a Trainee Logistics Coordinator, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages personal growth through structured training and progression opportunities, alongside perks such as a corporate gym membership discount and 50% off skip hire services. Join us in the South-West of England, where your contributions will be valued and rewarded in a dynamic and friendly environment.
Contact Details:
Smith's Gloucester Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Logistics Coordinator in Gloucester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even acquaintances who work in logistics or related fields. They might have insider info on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your research hat on! Familiarise yourself with Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd and their operations. Knowing their values and services will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to logistics and customer service. Think about how you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the team at Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Logistics Coordinator in Gloucester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm:When writing your application, let your passion for logistics and planning shine through! We want to see that you're excited about the role and ready to learn. A bit of personality goes a long way!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Trainee Logistics Coordinator role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do at Smiths!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our family-run business!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith's Gloucester Limited
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd. Understand their history, values, and the services they offer. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Trainee Logistics Coordinator, clear communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated in previous roles or situations. Think about times when you’ve had to relay important information or resolve issues, as this will be crucial in your new role.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Logistics can be unpredictable, so be ready to discuss how you handle challenges. Think of specific instances where you’ve had to adapt quickly or find solutions to problems. This will highlight your ability to think on your feet, which is essential for this position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team you'll be working with, the tools and systems used, or opportunities for progression. It shows that you're engaged and thinking about your future within the company.
