Van Assistant

Role Purpose

Enable efficient last-mile deliveries for a leading e-commerce platform serving 50,000+ Western Cape households. This operational role combines route support, customer service, and vehicle stewardship to ensure timely parcel distribution across urban and peri-urban routes.

Detailed Daily Responsibilities

1. Route Execution Support

• Navigation & Planning:

  • Operate real-time routing apps (Waze/Route4Me) for 15-20 daily stops

  • Adjust routes dynamically for road closures/traffic (avg. 200km daily)

  • Identify secure parking at high-risk delivery zones

• Parcel Management:

  • Load/unload 120+ parcels daily (max 25kg/item) with weight distribution

  • Verify delivery notes against physical goods (3-point check: SKU/quantity/condition)

  • Apply fragile handling protocols for electronics/glass

2. Customer Engagement

• Professional Interactions:

  • Collect Proof of Delivery (POD) signatures/photos via scanner

  • Handle returns processing (damaged/refused items)

  • Escalate complaints to dispatch within 15 minutes

• Security Protocols:

  • Verify recipient identity before parcel release

  • Report suspicious premises per security SOP

3. Vehicle Operations

• Daily Maintenance:

  • Pre-trip inspection checklist (tyres/lights/refrigeration unit)

  • Fluid level checks (oil/coolant/screenwash)

  • Interior deep-cleaning (sanitisation post-healthcare deliveries)

• Compliance:

  • Temperature log maintenance (2°C–8°C for pharmaceuticals)

  • Defect reporting via vehicle inspection app

4. Technology Utilization

• Handheld Scanner Operations:

  • Real-time status updates (delivered/attempted/returned)

  • Barcode scanning accuracy rate target: 99.8%

  • End-of-shift device charging and data sync

Essential Requirements

Mandatory Criteria

• Education: Grade 12 Certificate (with Mathematics advantageous)

• Licensing:

  • Code 8 Driver’s License (non-negotiable for insurance)

  • PDP beneficial but not required

• Physical Capacity:

  • Ability to lift 25kg parcels at waist-to-shoulder height

  • Withstand 10 hours in moving vehicle

• Technical Competence:

  • Smartphone proficiency (Android OS)

  • Basic navigation app troubleshooting

Background Checks

• Clear criminal record (verified by AFISwitch)

• Valid contactable references (2x)

Comprehensive Compensation Package

Monthly Earnings Potential: R11,900 – R15,600

Additional Benefits:

• Full Uniform Provision: 4x seasonal sets + safety boots

• Refrigeration Allowance: R200/month cold environment work

• Travel Support: Daily meal voucher (R60 value)

• Career Pathway: Potential progression to Route Controller

Work Schedule & Conditions

• Core Hours:

  • Mon–Fri: 06:00–16:00 (10-hour shifts)

  • Alternate Saturdays: 07:00–13:00 (1.5x pay)

• Environment:

  • Industrial warehouse start/end points

  • Urban/peri-urban delivery zones (including high-risk areas)

• Safety Provisions:

  • Vehicle panic button linked to armed response

  • Monthly defensive driving refreshers

  • First aid training (Level 1)

Application Process

Submission Requirements

1. Detailed CV:

   • Physical work experience (warehousing/retail/logistics)

   • Specific reference to customer service roles

2. Certified Documents:

   • Grade 12 Certificate

   • Driver’s License (front/back)

   • ID Document

3. Cover Letter Addressing:

   • Approach to time-sensitive deliveries

   • Experience handling customer complaints