Waste Traffic Planner: Route Optimisation & Compliance

Panda Ireland; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Panda is seeking a Trade Waste Traffic Planner in the UK to optimise driver routes, manage workloads, and support a high‑performing transport and collections operation. You will liaise with drivers, customers and internal teams to ensure reliable collections and compliant, efficient service.

The role requires organised, calm multitasking in a busy environment with experience in transport coordination and waste/logistics sectors. On‑site work and a proactive problem-solving mindset are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience in a traffic planning, transport planning or transport coordination role.
• Experience within waste, logistics, haulage, transport or a similar operational environment.
• Good knowledge of driver hours, Working Time Directive and transport compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate efficient daily routes for container deliveries, lifts, exchanges and collections across a wide geographical area.
• Monitor driver workloads and driver hours, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and company policies.
• Communicate clearly with drivers throughout the day, providing instructions, updates and support.
• Carry out thorough end-of-shift debriefs with drivers.
• Liaise with internal teams and customers to resolve service issues, confirm bookings, provide ETAs and respond to queries.
• Maintain accurate job records and ensure all information is updated correctly on relevant systems.
• Respond quickly to operational changes, disruptions or service issues by adapting plans and reallocating resources.
• Support transport compliance and SHEQ by promoting safe working practices and following company procedures.
• Assist with tracking vehicle performance and utilisation across a large fleet of HGVs and LGVs.
• Help improve transport planning processes, route efficiency and customer service delivery.

Skills

Traffic planning

Transport coordination

Driver hours compliance

Communication

Organisational skills

Problem solving

MS Office

Education

CPC

NVQ

BTEC

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Panda is seeking a Trade Waste Traffic Planner in the UK to optimise driver routes, manage workloads, and support a high‑performing transport and collections operation. You will liaise with drivers, customers and internal teams to ensure reliable collections and compliant, efficient service.

The role requires organised, calm multitasking in a busy environment with experience in transport coordination and waste/logistics sectors. On‑site work and a proactive problem-solving mindset are essential.