Logistics Coordinator - Perishable Goods

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 360,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Provident fund benefits

Training and development

Dynamic work environment

Exposure to perishable supply chains

Career growth opportunities

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Logistics Coordinator specializing in perishable goods for a role based in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will ensure cold chain integrity, coordinate end-to-end transport, liaise with carriers and warehouses, and monitor temperature conditions throughout transit to preserve product quality.

The ideal candidate has a Diploma or Bachelor's in Logistics or Supply Chain, 3–5 years in perishable logistics, strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication to manage

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor's in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 3–5 years of logistics coordination experience, with perishable/cold chain focus.
• Knowledge of international shipping regulations and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate end-to-end transportation of perishable goods, meeting strict timelines and quality standards.
• Manage relationships with carriers, freight forwarders, and suppliers; negotiate rates and SLAs.
• Monitor temperature and condition of goods during transit using tracking systems and regular updates.
• Plan and optimize routes to minimize transit times and preserve product quality.
• Prepare and process shipping documents, manifests, and permits (import/export).
• Coordinate with warehouse teams for loading/unloading while maintaining cold chain integrity.
• Identify and resolve delays, damaged goods, or customs holds; escalate as needed.
• Maintain records of logistics activities and inventory movements.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, transport laws, and international standards.
• Contribute to improvements in logistics processes for perishable goods.

Skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Problem solving

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Diploma or Bachelor's in Logistics / Supply Chain

Tools

WMS

TMS

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, is looking for a highly organized and detail-oriented Logistics Coordinator specializing in perishable goods to join their team in Tembisa, Gauteng. This role is crucial for ensuring the timely and efficient movement of sensitive products, maintaining their quality from origin to destination. The ideal candidate will have a keen understanding of cold chain logistics, temperature control, and the specific challenges associated with transporting perishable items. You will be responsible for coordinating complex logistical arrangements, liaising with various stakeholders, and troubleshooting any issues that arise to ensure customer satisfaction and product integrity. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a vital function within a dynamic industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the end-to-end transportation of perishable goods, ensuring adherence to strict timelines and quality standards.
• Manage relationships with carriers, freight forwarders, and suppliers, negotiating rates and service level agreements.
• Monitor the condition and temperature of goods during transit using tracking systems and regular communication.
• Plan and optimize logistics routes to minimize transit times and costs while preserving product quality.
• Prepare and process all necessary documentation, including shipping manifests, customs declarations, and import/export permits.
• Liaise with warehouse teams to ensure efficient loading and unloading of perishable products, maintaining cold chain integrity.
• Proactively identify and resolve logistical challenges, such as delays, damaged goods, or customs holds, escalating issues as needed.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all logistical activities and inventory movements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations, transportation laws, and international shipping standards.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of improved logistics processes for perishable goods.

Requirements

• A Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• At least 3-5 years of experience in logistics coordination, with a specific focus on perishable goods or cold chain management.
• Demonstrable knowledge of international shipping regulations and documentation requirements.
• Familiarity with temperature-controlled transportation methods and equipment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Proficient in using logistics software, WMS, TMS, and MS Office Suite.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy in documentation and record-keeping.
• Willingness to be available for occasional urgent requests outside of standard business hours.

Benefits

• A competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Opportunities for further training and development in specialized logistics areas.
• A dynamic and engaging work environment within a reputable company.
• Exposure to the complexities and rewards of managing perishable supply chains.
• Potential for career growth within the logistics department.
• Employee assistance programs for well-being support.