{"id":5426,"date":"2026-06-04T05:49:50","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T05:49:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/?p=5426"},"modified":"2026-06-04T05:57:42","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T05:57:42","slug":"transport-roles-responsibilities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/career\/transport\/transport-roles-responsibilities","title":{"rendered":"Logistics Roles Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Logistics roles explained: duties and responsibilities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Logistics roles support the movement, storage and coordination of goods across supply chains. From warehouse-based positions to transport and coordination roles, each job contributes to how materials are received, handled and delivered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These roles are structured around defined responsibilities, skill levels and operational requirements. This guide explains the most common logistics jobs, what they involve day to day and how they connect across the broader transport and logistics environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Core logistics roles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Logistics teams are organised around practical responsibilities that support inventory control, order fulfilment and transport operations. As experience develops, roles often progress from hands-on tasks into positions involving coordination, systems use and operational decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are the most common logistics roles in Australia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Truck driver<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A truck driver transports goods across local, regional or long-distance routes. This role focuses on safe vehicle operation, delivery scheduling and compliance with road and fatigue regulations, including requirements under the Heavy Vehicle National Law administered by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhvr.gov.au\/law-policies\/heavy-vehicle-national-law-and-regulations\">National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR)<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The duties of a truck driver usually include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Driving heavy vehicles across assigned routes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Securing loads to meet safety and compliance requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Planning routes and managing delivery schedules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Completing delivery documentation and records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communicating with dispatch or coordination teams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assisting with loading and unloading where required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Truck drivers often work independently while remaining connected to broader logistics operations through scheduling systems and communication tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are comfortable working independently and managing time across long shifts. It suits those who are safety-focused, reliable and confident following transport regulations and schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Truck drivers typically earn between $45 and $48.50 per hour for casual roles, depending on licence class, route type and working conditions. Earnings may vary with overtime, allowances and shift arrangements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Storeperson<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A storeperson manages the receipt, storage and dispatch of goods within a warehouse or distribution environment. This role supports inventory accuracy and ensures materials are available when needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The duties of a storeperson usually include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Receiving incoming goods and checking deliveries against documentation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Storing products in designated locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Picking and packing orders for dispatch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintaining stock records and inventory systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conducting stock counts and resolving discrepancies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supporting internal teams with material requests<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Storepersons play a central role in maintaining organised and efficient warehouse operations, often working with both physical stock and digital systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are organised, detail-focused and comfortable working in structured environments. It suits those who enjoy a mix of physical work and inventory control responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Storepersons typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 per year plus superannuation, depending on experience, site complexity and responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warehouse operator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A warehouse operator performs hands-on tasks that support the movement and handling of goods. This role is often broader than a storeperson role and may involve operating equipment and supporting multiple stages of the warehouse process, with responsibilities aligned to workplace health and safety standards set by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au\/about-us\/who-we-are-and-what-we-do\">Safe Work Australia<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The warehouse assistant duties associated with this role often include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Picking and packing orders for distribution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loading and unloading trucks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operating forklifts or other equipment where licensed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moving materials within the warehouse<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supporting dispatch and receiving processes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conducting basic quality checks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Warehouse operators are involved in day-to-day logistics execution and may move between tasks depending on workflow requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are physically capable and comfortable working in fast-moving environments. It suits those who prefer varied, hands-on work and are confident in following procedures and safety standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Warehouse operators typically earn between $30 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, licences and site requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Delivery driver<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A delivery driver completes local or regional deliveries, often as part of last-mile logistics. This role focuses on timely delivery, customer interaction and accurate handling of goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The duties of a delivery driver usually include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Delivering goods to customers or business locations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loading and unloading delivery vehicles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following delivery schedules and routes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using tracking systems or mobile applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confirming deliveries and maintaining records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communicating with customers and dispatch teams<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Delivery drivers often work within defined routes and timeframes, balancing efficiency with service quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who enjoy independent work with regular interaction. It suits those who are organised, reliable and comfortable navigating routes and managing delivery schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Delivery drivers typically earn around $34.55 per hour for casual roles, depending on employer, delivery volume and working conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Freight handler<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A freight handler manages the physical movement of goods across transport environments such as warehouses, depots or freight terminals. This role focuses on loading, unloading and transferring goods between transport modes, with strict adherence to workplace health and safety procedures guided by national frameworks such as those developed by Safe Work Australia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The duties of a freight handler usually include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Loading and unloading freight from trucks, aircraft or containers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operating forklifts or handling equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sorting and organising freight for dispatch<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transferring goods between transport systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following safety and security procedures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supporting time-sensitive freight operations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Freight handlers often work in regulated environments with strict safety and operational requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are physically capable and comfortable working in structured, process-driven environments. It suits those who can work efficiently under time pressure and follow detailed procedures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Freight handlers typically earn between $31 and $35 per hour, depending on shift patterns, location and operational requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Management roles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Management roles involve overseeing logistics operations, coordinating teams and maintaining performance across warehouse and transport activities. These positions build on operational experience and introduce responsibility for planning, compliance and resource allocation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Transport operations supervisor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A transport operations supervisor oversees drivers and fleet activity, ensuring deliveries are completed safely and efficiently. This role involves allocating work, monitoring performance and maintaining compliance with fatigue and transport regulations, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhvr.gov.au\/safety-accreditation-compliance\/chain-of-responsibility\">Chain of Responsibility<\/a> obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Transport operations supervisors are responsible for balancing workload distribution with operational efficiency while responding to delays or disruptions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Experienced transport workers who demonstrate strong organisational skills and the ability to coordinate people and resources. It suits those comfortable managing responsibility and supporting team performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Salaries vary depending on organisation size and responsibility, with many roles positioned at a mid-level supervisory salary range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Warehouse logistics manager<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A warehouse logistics manager oversees warehouse operations, including inventory control, staff management and workflow planning. This role focuses on maintaining efficiency, safety and accuracy across all warehouse activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The job description of a logistics manager mentions coordinating teams, monitoring performance and implementing process improvements to support operational outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals with strong leadership skills and operational experience. It suits those who are comfortable managing teams, systems and performance in a fast-moving environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Warehouse managers typically earn around $80,000 per year plus superannuation, depending on organisation size and operational scope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Support roles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Support roles focus on coordination, systems and administrative functions that enable logistics operations to run effectively. These roles often involve planning, communication and data management rather than physical handling of goods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Logistics coordinator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A logistics coordinator manages the flow of goods by organising shipments, tracking deliveries and maintaining communication across supply chain activities. The logistics coordinator job description centres on coordination, documentation and problem-solving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Logistics coordinators typically:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Schedule shipments and coordinate transport providers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Track deliveries and monitor progress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain documentation and shipment records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communicate with suppliers, drivers and customers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resolve delays and operational issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This role sits between warehouse operations and transport, ensuring that plans are executed efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are organised, detail-focused and comfortable managing multiple tasks. It suits those who prefer coordination and communication over physical work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Logistics coordinators typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, depending on experience and organisation size.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fleet controller<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A fleet controller plans and manages vehicle movements across transport operations. Fleet controller duties focus on scheduling, route planning and ensuring efficient use of vehicles and drivers while supporting compliance with fatigue management and Chain of Responsibility requirements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fleet controllers typically:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Plan routes and delivery schedules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allocate vehicles and drivers to jobs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor fleet performance and utilisation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manage compliance requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Respond to delays and operational issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This role plays a central part in maintaining efficient transport operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are analytical and comfortable making decisions in real time. It suits those who can manage pressure and coordinate multiple moving parts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Fleet controllers typically earn between $80,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on experience and operational complexity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scheduler or dispatcher<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A scheduler or dispatcher manages the timing and allocation of transport jobs. The scheduler role in transport focuses on real-time coordination and ensuring that deliveries are assigned and completed efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Schedulers or dispatchers typically:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Receive and prioritise incoming jobs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assign drivers based on availability and location<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor job progress and update schedules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Communicate with drivers and customers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjust plans in response to delays or changes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This role requires fast decision-making and strong communication across teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who this suits:<\/strong> Individuals who are organised and responsive, with the ability to manage changing priorities. It suits those who work well under pressure and can coordinate tasks in real time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salary range:<\/strong> Salaries vary depending on experience and organisation size, with most roles positioned at entry to mid-level coordination ranges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many logistics roles operate within national frameworks covering transport law, workplace safety and employment conditions, including guidance from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, Safe Work Australia and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fwc.gov.au\/about-us\">Fair Work Commission<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Note: Salary figures are indicative only and reflect typical base rates under relevant awards or market data at the time of writing. Actual earnings may vary depending on location, employer, industry segment, enterprise agreements and shift arrangements.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Find your place in transport &amp; logistics with CareerOne<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Transport &amp; logistics roles offer multiple entry points into a sector that supports the movement of goods across Australia. Whether you begin in a warehouse role, move into transport or transition into coordination, there are clear pathways to build experience and take on greater responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are exploring <a href=\"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/transport\/\">transport &amp; logistics<\/a> opportunities or looking to progress your career, you can compare roles, responsibilities and pay expectations in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/career\/transport\/transport-salary-guide\">salary guide<\/a>. CareerOne connects job seekers with employers across warehouse, transport and supply chain operations. Create a profile, explore current vacancies and take the next step in logistics today.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Logistics roles explained: duties and responsibilities Logistics roles<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3978,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[232],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5426","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-transport"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5426","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5426"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5426\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5427,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5426\/revisions\/5427"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3978"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5426"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5426"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.careerone.com.au\/career-advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5426"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}