Multiple transport and logistics positions to need filling but experience is preferred
The transport and logistics continues to pose questions about any lack of confidence in the economy, with recruitment firm Hays identifying a range of roles to be in demand in the sector as 2020 unfolds.
A constant refrain in Hays’ commentary for the sector continues, with multi-skilled and experienced candidates to be valued more highly.
“Employers look for candidates with a strong knowledge of systems and processes and a history of reducing costs, achieving demanding KPIs and diverse experience,” the Hays Logistics Jobs Report January to June 2020 states.
“Employers also want candidates with a wide technical skill set who they can utilise to their full potential.”
Strained transport networks in Sydney and Melbourne are seen as fuelling continued demand for experienced transport allocators, while a busier Brisbane needs allocators, supervisors and managers to lead operations.
“Lateral thinking transport coordinators and managers who cope well under pressure and find the best route at the cheapest rate are also in demand,” the report’s researchers say.
Behind the wheel, experience heavy rigid, multi combination and heavy combination drivers will also be sought, especially those with Maritime Security Identification Cards (MSIC) and those who able to labour outside the cab as well. The latter will remain in demand for transporting building supplies and locally manufactured products.
Around the docks, wharf fleet controllers are wanted “in response to turnover resulting from the high-pressure working environment.
“Employers look for candidates with wharf experience and a secure, stable and successful career within this space.”
Hays identifies a salary expectations gap in T&L, here
Interestingly, it appears safety compliance is beginning to bite as a needed qualifications
After noting that freight forwarders with sea freight and Mandarin language skills are wanted, Hays notes: “Heavy vehicle regulations will continue to crease demand in the transport sector for qualified [transport] supervisors with a Chain of Responsibility accreditation.”
Within warehouse and distribution operations, managers and supervisors are just two of a range of roles that will need filling but, again, experience and qualifications or licences will be trump cards.
A growing third party logistics (3PL) presence in New South Wales is leading to demand for warehouse managers, logistics coordinator, analysts, pallet controllers and dispatch coordinators.
“Employers want to ensure maximum efficiency is achieved and KPIs and contracts are being met,” the report says.
“Expectations from 3PL employers are growing and they therefore look for candidates who can ensure service delivery levels are met, if not exceeded.
“They also want to see degree qualified candidates with experience in a similar environment.”
Another regional quirk Hays’ researchers identify centres on Tasmania, where demand for domestic and international freight out of the state is at an “unprecedented level”, as its “reputation for world-class produce continues to soar”.
“In Tasmania, picker and packer and forklift operators from the mainland are inundating the marker in search of jobs in regional locations for visa purposes,” Hays says.