Crate Controller – Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (Contract Position)
Monthly Salary: R6 400
Reporting to: Operations Manager
A reputable organisation in the bakery and distribution sector is offering a new opportunity for a Crate Controller based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is ideal for a reliable, detail-oriented individual who is committed to maintaining order, cleanliness, and efficiency within a fast-paced operational environment. The Crate Controller plays a key part in ensuring the smooth flow of empty crates through the dispatch and storage areas, supporting both operational teams and overall business productivity.
Role Purpose
The primary purpose of the Crate Controller role is to ensure the accurate receiving, handling, sorting, and storage of empty crates returned from delivery vehicles. This function supports production and logistics by keeping the crate storage area organised, hygienic, and fully stocked for the crate-washing process. The position requires someone who is dependable, able to follow instructions, and comfortable assisting with general operational tasks when needed.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Crate Offloading and Handling
When delivery vehicles return to the bakery, the Crate Controller will assist van assistants in offloading all empty crates quickly and safely. Each crate must be moved to the designated areas according to company procedures. The role requires maintaining situational awareness, ensuring that crates are not damaged during handling, and making sure vehicles are cleared efficiently to support fast turnaround times.
2. Storage and Organisation of Crates
All empty crates must be neatly stacked on trolleys and stored in the approved crate storage area. Maintaining a tidy and structured storage system is essential for quick retrieval and operational efficiency. The Crate Controller must ensure that the layout of the storage area allows easy movement and that crates are always accessible to the staff responsible for washing and redistributing them.
3. Cleaning and Sustaining Hygiene Standards
This is a hygiene-critical position. The Crate Controller is responsible for keeping the storage area clean at all times. This includes removing waste, clearing obstructions, and monitoring crate conditions. Adhering to company hygiene protocols helps maintain product safety and supports compliance with health and safety regulations.
4. Sorting and Segregation of Crates
The business uses specific crate types, and it is important that only the correct crates enter the washing and redistribution process. The Crate Controller must identify and remove crates that do not belong to the company. Damaged crates must also be separated and handled according to company guidelines, ensuring that only quality crates move forward in the system.
5. Support for Crate Washing Operations
The crate washers rely on a consistent supply of crates. The Crate Controller will monitor crate levels and ensure there is always a sufficient number ready for washing. This helps avoid delays and supports the ongoing production cycle.
6. Compliance with Safety Procedures
The role requires strict adherence to all health and safety regulations. This includes the correct use of equipment, safe crate-handling practices, and reporting any unsafe conditions to management. Safety is a shared responsibility, and the Crate Controller is expected to contribute actively to a safe working environment.
7. General Assistance and Team Support
From time to time, the Crate Controller may be required to support other areas of the business. This can include helping with truck loading, supporting dispatch processes, or assisting the Operations Manager and Dispatch Clerks. Flexibility and teamwork are essential elements of this role.
Education and Skills Requirements
Minimum Education:
- Grade 12 (Matric)
Skills and Competencies:
- Ability to read, write, understand, and communicate clearly in English
- Good numeracy skills, including counting and basic record-keeping
- Reliable time-management and organisational skills
- Ability to work well with team members
- Customer-friendly attitude, as occasional customer interaction may occur
- Experience in a logistics or warehouse environment is an advantage, but not essential
Personal Attributes
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a friendly, respectful, and helpful approach in all interactions. The role requires someone who takes pride in maintaining cleanliness, works diligently, follows instructions carefully, and contributes positively to the workplace environment.
Contact Information
For more information about this position, please contact:
Karin Loots