Logistics Planning & Route Optimization Specialist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Comprehensive benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a highly analytical Logistics Planning & Route Optimization Specialist to design, implement and refine delivery routes for a large fleet. You will optimize schedules to maximize speed, reduce costs and boost customer satisfaction, leveraging advanced route optimization software and data-driven decision making.

You will collaborate with dispatch, operations and sales teams, model scenarios, monitor KPIs and stay abreast of the latest logistics

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in logistics planning, route optimization, or transportation management.
• Advanced proficiency with route optimization software (RouteXL, OptimoRoute, or similar).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent understanding of transportation dynamics in South Africa, including driver hours, vehicle capacity, and traffic patterns.
• Experience with large datasets and data analysis tools (Excel, SQL, Power BI).
• Strong communication and presentation skills; ability to convey complex plans.
• Hybrid work model willingness.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement optimal delivery routes and schedules for a large and complex fleet.
• Utilize advanced route optimization software and algorithms to achieve efficiency goals.
• Analyze transportation data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with dispatch teams to ensure effective real‑time execution of planned routes.
• Monitor delivery performance against planned schedules and KPIs.
• Model various logistical scenarios to predict outcomes and support strategic decision‑making.
• Liaise with fleet management to understand vehicle capabilities and limitations in route planning.
• Communicate route plans and operational insights to relevant stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in logistics and route optimization.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of the transportation network.

Skills

Route optimization

Analytical skills

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics / Supply Chain

Tools

RouteXL

OptimoRoute

Excel

SQL

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national logistics provider, is seeking a highly analytical and strategic Logistics Planning & Route Optimization Specialist to join their dynamic team based in Sandton, Gauteng. This pivotal role focuses on designing, implementing, and refining efficient transportation routes and schedules to maximize delivery speed, minimize costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess advanced knowledge of route optimization software, strong analytical capabilities, and a deep understanding of logistical operations within South Africa. You will work closely with dispatch, operations, and sales teams to ensure seamless integration of planning and execution. This is an excellent opportunity to leverage your expertise in a high-impact role within a major player in the Gauteng transportation sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement optimal delivery routes and schedules for a large and complex fleet.
• Utilize advanced route optimization software and algorithms to achieve efficiency goals.
• Analyze transportation data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with dispatch teams to ensure effective real‑time execution of planned routes.
• Monitor delivery performance against planned schedules and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Model various logistical scenarios to predict outcomes and support strategic decision‑making.
• Liaise with fleet management to understand vehicle capabilities and limitations in route planning.
• Communicate route plans and operational insights to relevant stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in logistics and route optimization.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the company's transportation network.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in logistics planning, route optimization, or transportation management.
• Advanced proficiency with route optimization software (e.g., RouteXL, OptimoRoute, or similar enterprise solutions).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent understanding of transportation dynamics, including driver hours, vehicle capacity, and traffic patterns in South Africa.
• Experience working with large datasets and proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Power BI).
• Strong communication and presentation skills to effectively convey complex plans.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, with a hybrid work model.
• Familiarity with GPS tracking and telematics data integration.
• Proactive approach to identifying and implementing improvements.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• performance bonuses
• comprehensive benefits
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in logistics technology are available.
• Be part of a leading logistics company with significant influence in the Gauteng region.
• This position offers intellectual challenge and the opportunity to significantly impact operational efficiency and profitability.