Transport Planner / Operator - Nights

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions; Stretford; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawk 3 Talent Solutions are recruiting a Transport Operator for their Trafford Park, Manchester depot. The role manages 21 vehicles, 6 subcontractors and 85 drivers, coordinating with ports and scheduling deliveries across the UK.

You will use TOPS to track schedules, monitor ETAs and reroute jobs as needed. The ideal candidate has transport operator/planner experience, strong UK geography knowledge, excellent communication, and a problem-solving mindset.

Qualifications

• Experience as Transport Operator or Planner is essential.
• Strong understanding of UK geography and container transport operations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple drivers daily: 21 vehicles, 6 subcontractors, 85 drivers total.
• Liaise with ports and book delivery slots.
• Use TOPS to track driver schedules and ETAs.
• Monitor ETAs and reroute jobs as needed.
• Ensure POD matching and accuracy of documentation.
• Communicate updates or delays clearly to customers.
• Work proactively to ensure timely deliveries across the UK.

Skills

Transport planning

UK geography understanding

Communication skills

Independent problem-solving

Attention to detail

4 on 4 off shift experience

Tools

TOPS system

Job description

Job Title: Transport Operator - Nights

Location: Manchester (Trafford Park)

Job Type: Permanent

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

Salary: c.£36,000 to £44,000 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 or (all fixed day shifts)

Closing date is 9th October 2026