Long-Haul Refrigerated Truck Driver

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Per diem allowances

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Paid annual leave

Ongoing refrigeration training

Job summary

Placements24 is sourcing a Long-Haul Refrigerated Truck Driver based in Bloemfontein, Free State, SA. The role focuses on transporting perishable goods across long-haul SA routes using temperature-controlled trailers.

You will maintain strict temperature logs, perform vehicle checks, and ensure timely, safe deliveries. The ideal candidate has 4+ years of experience in refrigerated transport, a clean driving record, and the ability to work independently on long trips with occasional overnight

Qualifications

• Experience operating refrigerated transport and maintaining temperature logs.
• Strong knowledge of temperature-control zones and reefer unit maintenance.
• Ability to work independently, manage routes, and meet tight schedules.

Responsibilities

• Operate tractor-trailer combinations equipped for refrigerated transport.
• Transport perishable goods and pharmaceuticals across long-haul routes in SA.
• Monitor and maintain precise temperature control settings in the reefer unit.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicle and refrigeration equipment.
• Maintain accurate logs of driving hours, mileage, and fuel consumption.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and transport laws.
• Securely load and unload cargo while protecting product integrity.
• Communicate delivery status and issues with dispatch and clients.
• Adhere to traffic laws and practice defensive driving at all times.

Skills

Refrigerated transport

Long-haul driving

Route planning

Defensive driving

Logkeeping

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of temperature-controlled logistics solutions, is seeking a skilled and dependable Long-Haul Refrigerated Truck Driver to operate from Bloemfontein, Free State. This critical role involves transporting perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products across long distances throughout South Africa. The ideal candidate must have extensive experience with refrigerated transport, a strong understanding of maintaining specific temperature zones, and a commitment to ensuring product integrity. You will be responsible for safe driving practices, meticulous record-keeping, and the timely delivery of goods, often under tight schedules. This position offers a stable career with a reputable company that values safety, reliability, and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate tractor-trailer combinations, specifically those equipped for refrigerated transport.
• Transport perishable goods, frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive cargo across long-haul routes.
• Monitor and maintain precise temperature control settings within the reefer unit throughout transit.
• Perform regular checks on the refrigeration unit and vehicle to ensure optimal performance and prevent spoilage.
• Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the truck and trailer.
• Maintain accurate logs of driving hours, mileage, fuel consumption, and temperature readings.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and transportation laws.
• Securely load and unload cargo as required, ensuring product integrity.
• Communicate effectively with dispatch, clients, and other stakeholders regarding delivery status and any issues.
• Adhere to all traffic laws and practice defensive driving techniques.

Requirements

• Valid Code 14 (EC) driver's license with a PrDP for goods.
• Minimum of 4 years' verifiable experience as a long-haul truck driver, with at least 2 years specifically in refrigerated transport.
• Proven experience operating and managing reefer units and maintaining temperature logs.
• Clean driving record with no major infringements.
• Familiarity with major South African transportation routes.
• Knowledge of food safety standards and regulations applicable to transport.
• Strong understanding of heavy vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting, particularly for reefer units.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage routes effectively.
• Must be willing to undertake long-haul trips and occasional overnight stays, based in Bloemfontein, Free State.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary, reflecting experience in specialized transport.
• Attractive per diem and allowances for long-haul trips.
• Opportunity to work with a fleet of modern, well-maintained refrigerated trucks.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Potential for regular, consistent work routes.
• A company culture that prioritizes driver safety and well-being.
• Opportunities for ongoing training in advanced refrigeration technology.