Job description
Transport Planner – RORO Fleet (Full-Time, Permanent)
Based at Crompton Road, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 4BG
Starting salary competitive – based on experience
Do you know the UK road network like the back of your hand?
Are you calm under pressure, quick-thinking, and thrive in a fast-paced environment?
Interested in recycling, logistics, and making a real impact every day?
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
About Us
At Ward Recycling, we don’t just move materials — we help power the circular economy. As a family-run business with over 80 years of heritage, we’ve grown into one of the UK's leading waste management and recycling companies. We’re proud to hold FORS Gold accreditation and operate a fleet of 120+ vehicles across the UK.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll be part of our Transport Planning team, focused on scheduling and optimising routes for our Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) fleet across a diverse customer base.
Your mission:
To plan daily work for our HGV drivers in the most efficient, safe and cost-effective way — while keeping customers happy and drivers supported.
Your day-to-day will include:
* Creating and updating driver schedules
* Liaising with customers, drivers, senior planners, and site teams
* Monitoring and responding to real-time issues like vehicle breakdowns or traffic delays
* Understanding types of waste and materials we handle (e.g., ferrous/non-ferrous metals, demolition and household waste)
* Ensuring compliance with transport regulations and legal requirements
* Inputting and managing key data for accurate reporting
* Making confident decisions and reprioritising work quickly
Who We’re Looking For
We are open to training the right person — attitude, aptitude, and the following skills are essential:
Must-Have Skills & Attributes:
* Excellent UK geographical knowledge – especially routes, regions, and HGV-relevant restrictions
* Great communicator – you’ll be dealing with drivers, customers, and senior staff daily
* Problem solver – able to think fast and juggle multiple priorities calmly
* Genuinely interested in waste, recycling, and the materials we work with
* Willingness to learn about HGV regulations, weight limits, and transport compliance
* Strong organisational skills and a logical, methodical mindset
* Able to keep a level head when things go off-plan – and they will!
Bonus if you have:
* Experience in a transport or logistics environment
* Knowledge of the Working Time Directive & EU Driver Hours rules
* Familiarity with transport planning systems or telematics platforms
Hours & Flexibility
You’ll work 45+ hours per week within our transport planning window of 07:00 – 17:00, with some flexibility needed depending on workload and operational needs.
What’s in It for You
* Competitive pay (based on experience)
* Company pension scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
* Access to our staff ‘Re-WARD’ benefits
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Career development and training opportunities
* Be part of a tight-knit, family-run business.
How to Apply
Ready to join a fast-moving, purpose-driven business and take your career to the next level?
Closing Date: Friday 13 June, 2025.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£32,000.00 per year