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Occupation Details

Transport Manager


(Manager (Transport))

Fact Sheet

Checking the status of freight with online tracking

Transport managers organise and control the operations of a transportation business. The transport manager's role is becoming increasingly specialised and sophisticated. Transport managers need a thorough understanding of the transport industry and how the four principal modes of transport (road, rail, sea and air) interact:

Road passenger (bus, coach, taxi) transport is provided by both government agencies and private companies; goods transport related to general carriers such as courier, taxi truck and heavy haulage services; and the operations of large commercial enterprises, such as bakeries, meat and food processors, which have delivery vehicles.

Rail passenger transport in the metropolitan area, and passenger and goods transport, are provided in the country and interstate.

Air passenger and goods transport is provided by private, domestic and overseas airlines.

Sea passenger and goods transport is provided by local and overseas shipping companies.


 

Duties and Tasks

Transport managers may perform the following tasks:

  • organise the purchase and maintenance of transport vehicles, equipment and fuel
  • talk to clients to work out their requirements
  • devise and put into place transportation schedules and receive orders and bookings
  • make sure goods are stored and transported in conditions which will maintain their quality
  • arrange collection and delivery of vehicles and goods
  • provide vehicles for hire or charter
  • introduce and maintain quality control procedures
  • organise and arrange promotional campaigns for the transportation of goods.

Quick Facts

School subjects that include some aspect of English provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases an English-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
School subjects that include some aspect of MATHEMATICS provide a useful background to these jobs. In some cases a mathematics-related subject is a pre-requisite for entry to courses that provide the training for the job.
Included are jobs associated with transport by road, rail, water or in air, as well as storage and handling of goods.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH THINGS, using the hands, or special tools or equipment to make, fix, install or adjust them. Activities include doing practical and physical tasks, and may require an understanding of how equipment or machinery works.
These jobs involve WORKING WITH DATA to order, process or retrieve facts and figures, or to develop or administer policies and procedures. Activities include organising, using or updating information, such as files or accounts, developing or following procedures or systems, and the planning, budgeting, and staffing of an organisation.
Jobs in this group usually require completion of a recognised Bachelor Degree, or extensive relevant experience. Some jobs also require post-graduate study, such as a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Master Degree.

Work Conditions

Transport managers spend most of their day in the office. However, they may be required to inspect operations from time to time. On these occasions, they may be exposed to dusty, noisy conditions.

Personal Requirements

  • good organisational and managerial skills
  • able to work under pressure
  • good communication skills.

See State Specific Information below for further education and training options.

Occupation Video - Transport Manager