Jobs in Keele

Transport Planner
Location: Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire
Salary: £35,000–£37,000 per annum DOE
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
We are recruiting an experienced Transport Planner to join a busy and growing transport and logistics operation in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Working within a close-knit transport team, you will be responsible for planning and coordinating daily transport operations, ensuring drivers and vehicles are utilised efficiently while customer collection and delivery requirements are achieved.
This is a hands-on position for someone who enjoys the pace of a busy transport environment and can confidently adapt the plan when traffic, driver availability, delays or customer requirements change.
Key Responsibilities
* Plan and coordinate daily vehicle routes, collections and deliveries across the UK
* Allocate drivers and vehicles effectively to maximise fleet utilisation
* Monitor live transport movements and adjust routes and schedules when required
* Communicate with drivers and act quickly to resolve day-to-day operational issues
* Liaise with customers, depots, warehouses and subcontractors
* Ensure planning complies with Drivers' Hours Regulations, Working Time Directive and relevant transport legislation
* Monitor driver hours, availability and operational requirements
* Maintain accurate transport documentation, records, KPIs and reports
* Use Transport Management Systems to manage and support the daily operation
* Maintain excellent customer service while supporting continuous improvement across the transport operation
Skills and Experience
* Previous transport planning experience within a busy transport or logistics operation
* Experience planning and allocating drivers and vehicles
* Good geographical knowledge of the UK road network
* Good understanding of Drivers' Hours, Working Time Directive and transport compliance
* Experience using Transport Management Systems
* Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office
* Strong communication, organisation and prioritisation skills
* Ability to make decisions and solve problems under pressure
Experience within general haulage, retail distribution, pallet networks, multi-drop or national transport operations would be advantageous.
Working Hours and Benefits
* Monday to Friday with rotating early and late shifts between 06:00 and 18:00
* Any 5 days from 7 may be required during peak periods, with weekend overtime available when required
* Participation in an on-call rota between January and September
* £35,000–£37,000 per annum DOE, 20 days holiday plus Bank Holidays, employer pension contribution and on-site parking
This is a permanent opportunity offering training, development and genuine long-term progression within a supportive family-run business.
If you're an experienced Transport Planner looking for your next opportunity in Newcastle-under-Lyme, apply today with your CV for consideration