Transport Planner / Operator - Days

Hawk 3; Salford; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawk 3 in Manchester (Trafford Park) is seeking a Transport Operator/Planner to coordinate a large driver network and manage daily transport operations across the UK.

You will use TOPS to track driver schedules, book slots with ports, monitor ETAs, reroute as needed, and ensure PODs are matched accurately, while keeping customers informed.

This permanent 4 on 4 off role offers a day shift (06:00–18:00 or 07:00–19:00) with a salary circa £38,000 negotiable depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Transport Operator or Planner
• Experience with container transport operations
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple drivers and schedules

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple drivers daily (21 vehicles, 6 subcontractors, 85 drivers)
• Liaise with ports and book delivery slots
• Use TOPS to track driver schedules
• Monitor ETAs and reroute as needed
• Ensure POD matching and accuracy
• Communicate updates or delays to customers
• Ensure smooth, timely UK deliveries

Skills

Transport planning

Driver coordination

UK geography

Communication

Problem solving

Tools

TOPS (Transport Operations Planning System)

Job description

Job Title: Transport Operator / Planner

Location: Manchester (Trafford Park)

Job Type: Permanent

Shift: 4 on 4 off, Permanent Day Shift - 6am to 6pm & 7am to 7pm

Salary: circa £38,000 negotiable depending on experience

Interviewing: ASAP

If you're experienced in container transport and thrive in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Managing multiple drivers on a daily basis; 21 vehicles, 6 subcontractors and a total of 85 drivers
• Liaising with ports and booking delivery slots
• Using TOPS (Transport Operations Planning System) to track driver schedules
• Monitoring ETAs and rerouting jobs as needed
• Ensuring accurate POD (proof of delivery) matching
• Communicating clearly with customers about updates or delays
• Working proactively to ensure smooth, timely deliveries across the UK

What We're Looking For:

• Previous experience as a Transport Operator or Planner - essential
• Strong understanding of UK geography and container transport operations
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work independently and problem-solve in real time
• Organised and detail-oriented with a flexible attitude
• Comfortable working on a 4 on, 4 off shift pattern. Hours are06.00- 18.00 & 07.00 - 19.00 (all fixed dayshifts)

If you're ready to take on a new challenge with a company that invests in its people and rewards hard work, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing date is 29th October2026