Transport Planner / Operator - Nights

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions; Manchester; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are recruiting a Transport Operator/Planner for a busy depot in Trafford Park, Manchester. The role involves managing drivers, coordinating with ports, and using TOPS to optimise schedules, with a 4 on 4 off pattern and days or nights choice.

You’ll work to ensure timely UK deliveries, maintain POD accuracy, and provide proactive updates to customers. Salary ranges £32,000–£40,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Transport Operator or Planner.
• Strong understanding of UK geography and container operations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Ability to work independently and solve real-time problems.
• Organised with a flexible attitude.
• Comfortable on a 4 on/4 off shift pattern.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple drivers daily across 21 vehicles and 6 subcontractors.
• Liaise with ports and book delivery slots.
• Use TOPS to track driver schedules.
• Monitor ETAs and reroute as needed.
• Ensure POD matching and accurate records.
• Communicate updates or delays to customers.
• Coordinate UK-wide deliveries, ensuring timeliness.

Skills

Transport planning

TOPS system

UK geography

Communication

Problem solving

Organised

Tools

TOPS system

Job description

Job Title: Transport Operator / Planner

Location: Manchester (Trafford Park)

Job Type: Permanent

Shift: 4 on 4 off, Permanent Days or Nights (dependent on your preference)

Salary: c.GBP32,000 to GBP40,000 depending on experience

Interviewing: ASAP

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are proud to be working in partnership with a well-established and rapidly growing leader in the logistics industry to recruit a Transport Operator for their busy depot based in Trafford Park, Manchester.

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 are in between

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 August 2026

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are acting as an Employment Agency on behalf of its client