Lead Truck Driver - Long Haul Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 320,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package (annual)

Overtime opportunities

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Training programs

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Truck Driver to join our client’s operations in Cape Town. The role focuses on safe, timely transport of goods, mentoring junior drivers, and upholding stringent safety standards across routes.

The candidate should have a PDP and Code 14, at least 5 years of verifiable driving experience, and a clean record. Nights and weekends may be required to meet delivery schedules, with opportunities for advancement and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Valid PDP and Code 14 driver’s license.
• Minimum 5 years verifiable professional driving experience.
• Clean driving record with no major violations.
• Experience with long-haul routes preferred.
• Ability to read maps and shipping documents.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Good physical stamina; able to lift moderate loads.
• Willing to work nights and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-duty trucks and trailers safely to transport goods.
• Plan and optimize delivery routes for timely arrivals.
• Maintain accurate logs of mileage, fuel, deliveries.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
• Report defects to fleet manager.
• Mentor junior drivers and promote safety practices.
• Handle freight documentation and bills of lading.
• Communicate with dispatchers and customers about delays.
• Represent the company professionally during deliveries.

Skills

PDP

Code 14

5+ years exp

Mentoring drivers

Safety compliance

Long-haul exp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier national freight company, is seeking an experienced and highly reliable Lead Truck Driver to join their operations team in Cape Town. This is a critical, hands-on role responsible for the safe and timely transportation of goods across various routes. As a Lead Driver, you will not only operate commercial vehicles but also play a key role in mentoring junior drivers and ensuring adherence to all safety and operational protocols. This position requires an individual with a strong work ethic, excellent driving skills, and a commitment to maintaining our client's reputation for punctuality and reliability in Cape Town and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy-duty trucks and trailers safely and efficiently to transport goods across designated routes.
• Adhere strictly to all traffic laws, safety regulations, and company policies.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections, ensuring the truck and trailer are in good working order.
• Report any vehicle defects or maintenance issues immediately to the fleet manager.
• Plan and optimize delivery routes to ensure timely arrivals and efficient fuel consumption.
• Maintain accurate logs of mileage, fuel consumption, deliveries, and any incidents.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior drivers, promoting best practices in safety and operations.
• Handle freight documentation, including delivery receipts and bills of lading, ensuring accuracy.
• Communicate effectively with dispatchers and customers regarding delivery status and any delays.
• Represent the company professionally at all times during deliveries and interactions.

Requirements

• Valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP) and Code 14 driver's license.
• Minimum of 5 years of verifiable experience as a professional truck driver, preferably with long-haul experience.
• Proven clean driving record with no major traffic violations or accidents.
• Demonstrated ability to operate heavy-duty vehicles safely and competently.
• Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
• Ability to read and understand maps, route directions, and shipping documents.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Good physical stamina and the ability to lift and move moderate loads.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends, as required by delivery schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, paid per annum, with potential for overtime earnings.
• This position comes with comprehensive medical insurance, a robust retirement savings plan, and paid time off.
• Drivers also benefit from ongoing training programs and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Being a Lead Truck Driver means you are a vital part of our operations in Cape Town, and your contribution is highly valued.