Operations Scheduler

At Panda, we’re looking for an Operations Scheduler to help keep our waste collection operations running smoothly, safely and efficiently.

This is a key coordination role supporting the timely collection, transport and disposal of waste across our customer base. You’ll work closely with drivers, operations, maintenance, customer service and sales teams to make sure routes are planned effectively, service commitments are met, and issues are resolved quickly.

As an Operations Scheduler, you’ll be central to the day-to-day flow of the operation, balancing customer needs, driver communication, vehicle availability, route changes and compliance requirements in a fast-moving environment.

What you’ll be doing

• Plan, assign and adjust daily waste collection routes to maximise efficiency and service delivery
• Use route planning and optimisation systems to support effective routes, taking account of traffic, weather and collection schedules
• Create and manage collection schedules for residential and commercial customers
• Ensure regular collections and special service requests are scheduled accurately
• Adjust schedules to manage holidays, breakdowns, emergency requests or operational disruption
• Maintain regular communication with drivers to support timely collections
• Provide clear route instructions, customer requirements and updates on potential hazards
• Manage real-time changes to routes, schedules and driver activity
• Act as a key point of contact for customer queries, missed collections and service issues
• Work with field teams to resolve complaints and service requests quickly and professionally
• Keep customers informed of delays, route changes or rescheduled services where required
• Monitor vehicle locations using GPS and tracking systems
• Track route progress, driver performance, fuel usage and route compliance
• Respond quickly to breakdowns, missed pickups, accidents, traffic delays or adverse weather
• Reassign resources or amend routes to keep services moving during disruption
• Support compliance with relevant waste management, transport and environmental regulations
• Promote safe working practices and report incidents, accidents or safety concerns
• Maintain accurate records of routes, collections, fuel usage, maintenance activity and driver hours
• Support internal reporting, invoicing and compliance requirements through accurate data entry
• Work closely with operations and maintenance teams to schedule vehicle repairs and servicing
• Help ensure vehicles are roadworthy, properly equipped and ready for dispatch
• Monitor vehicle loads to ensure weight limits are not exceeded
• Coordinate deliveries with transfer stations, landfills and recycling facilities
• Liaise with sales, customer service, recycling and hazardous waste teams to support customer commitments and correct waste handling
• Use dispatch systems, GPS tracking tools and communication platforms effectively
• Support drivers with in-cab technology and mobile applications
• Attend meetings as required and act as a positive ambassador for Panda

What we’re looking for

• Experience in transport coordination, scheduling, route planning, dispatch, logistics, waste management or a similar operational role
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities at once
• Clear and confident communication skills, especially when working with drivers, customers and internal teams
• Good attention to detail and the ability to keep accurate records
• A calm, practical approach to problem solving in a busy operational environment
• Confidence using systems, tracking tools, spreadsheets or dispatch platforms
• Ability to make quick, sensible decisions when schedules or priorities change
• Strong customer focus and the ability to resolve service issues professionally
• Awareness of health, safety, compliance and environmental responsibilities
• A team-focused approach and willingness to support wider operational needs

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Permanent, full-time position
• 20 days annual leave
• Training and development support
• Opportunities for career progression within Panda

This Operations Scheduler role would suit someone who enjoys problem solving, coordinating people and resources, and playing an important part in keeping essential services moving.

This is a great opportunity for someone looking for a practical, fast-paced Operations Scheduler role where they can make a real impact on daily operations, customer service and overall efficiency.

We are Panda. We value waste.

We’re in the business of waste management but that doesn’t just mean collecting bins. Behind every collection is a passionate team of people finding smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to recycle and repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.

Over the past 30 years, Panda has grown into a leading resource recovery business, bringing together almost 3,000 people across multiple brands, united by a shared vision and strong values. While our operations are diverse, our purpose is clear: to protect our people, support our customers, and create positive impact for the communities and environments we serve.

At Panda, people are at the heart of everything we do. We work as one team, combining different skills, experiences, and perspectives to achieve shared goals. We care for each other’s wellbeing, encourage development, and support growth because we know we’re stronger together.

We expect excellence in how we operate. High standards, bold thinking, and continuous improvement drive our passion for innovation. We challenge the ordinary, put safety first, and embrace new ideas while delivering practical, cost-effective solutions that move our business forward.

We own what we do. From day-to-day tasks to major projects, we take pride in our work and responsibility for the outcome. We don’t walk past problems we address them together. Our expertise, reliability, and care reflect who we are and the difference we make.

And above all, we act with trust and integrity. Trust is built through open communication, honesty, and accountability. It allows us to move quickly, make confident decisions, and deliver results — knowing our people are empowered to do the right thing.

Our journey depends on talented, committed people who want to make an impact.

Take the first step and join us on the journey.

Panda is committed to attracting and retaining a skilled and diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we operate and the people we serve.
(DE&I Policy Statement)