Traffic Planner

Job Title - Traffic Planner

Reports to - Operations Manager

Due to the company’s continued growth and future expansion plans to be the leading provider in commercial waste services, we are looking to increase headcount within our Collections team by adding a Traffic Planner to support our busy collections depot. This role forms part of a wider strategy to develop a fully functioning, high-performing department capable of meeting the demands of a growing customer base and evolving service expectations. It’s an exciting opportunity for someone to join at a pivotal time and contribute to the ongoing success and development of the business.

 Overview:

This role is key in optimising driver routes, managing workloads, and maintaining service standards, while ensuring full compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Providing clear communication with drivers and customers, whilst also working collaboratively with other departments. The Traffic Planner plays a vital role in keeping operations running smoothly and contributing to the overall success of the transport department.

 Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Plan and coordinate the most effective and efficient route for daily container deliveries, lifts, exchanges, and collections across a wide geographical area

• Monitor and manage driver hours, ensuring compliance with legal regulations and company policies

• Communicate effectively with drivers throughout the day, providing instructions, updates, and support. Conduct a thorough end of shift debrief

• Liaise with internal teams and engage with customers to resolve service issues, confirm bookings, provide ETAs and handle queries

• Maintain accurate job records and ensure all information is logged correctly in relevant systems in a timely manner

• Respond to unexpected changes or operational disruptions by adapting plans and reallocating resources

• Support transport compliance and SHEQ by promoting safe working practices and procedures whilst adhering to regulations

• Assist with tracking vehicle performance and utilisation to maximise efficiency of a large fleet of HGVS and LGVS involved in the collection of waste and recyclate materials

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of transport planning processes and customer service delivery

• Any reasonable task as may be required from time to time

Required Experiences & Skills:

• Proven experience in a traffic planning or transport coordination role, ideally within the waste, logistics, or haulage industry

• Knowledge of driver hours regulations and transport compliance requirements

• Excellent organisational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritise and adapt in a fast-paced environment

• Confident communicator with strong interpersonal skills – able to engage effectively with drivers, customers, and internal teams

• Proficient in use of Microsoft applications

• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to make quick, effective decisions under pressure

• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues

• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering excellent service

• Team player with a positive attitude, the ability to multitask and willingness to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

Required Qualifications & Knowledge:

• Relevant qualification in transport, logistics, or supply chain (e.g. CPC, NVQ, or BTEC) – desirable

• Good working knowledge of transport regulations, including driver hours, Working Time Directive, and vehicle compliance

• Familiarity with waste management operations would be advantageous but not mandatory

• Understanding of route planning principles and geographical knowledge of the operating area

• Basic knowledge of health & safety requirements in a transport or depot environment

• Awareness of customer service standards and service-level expectations in a commercial environment

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)