Bulker Driver at Adept Systems

Job Purpose

• The Bulker Driver is responsible for the safe haulage and discharge of bulk cement using a pressurised tanker unit, from the plant loading point to customer silos and batching plants. The incumbent takes custody of the vehicle, the trailer and the product in transit and is accountable for product quantity, product quality and the safe operation of the discharge equipment in line with driver-standing instructions and Kenyan traffic legislation.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out a documented pre-trip and post-trip inspection of the prime mover and tanker, including tyres, brakes, coupling, air lines, compressor, hoses, valves, pressure gauges and relief valves, and report any defect before departure;
• Present the unit at the weighbridge for tare and gross weighing, confirm the net loaded quantity against the loading and dispatch documents, and confirm that the manhole covers and discharge outlets are sealed before leaving the plant;
• Confirm that the tanker is clean, dry and free of any residue or contamination before loading, and protect the product from moisture ingress throughout the trip;
• Operate the compressor, aeration system and discharge line correctly during offloading, observing the recommended discharge pressure and blowing time, and stop the operation immediately where pressure readings fall outside the safe range;
• Connect and disconnect discharge hoses to customer silos under the direction of the site personnel, confirm the receiving silo has capacity and is the correct silo for the product grade, and remain in attendance for the full duration of discharge;
• Observe all site safety requirements at the plant and at customer premises, including personal protective equipment, no smoking zones, traffic marshalling and site induction;
• Drive the assigned route as issued by the Transport and Logistics office, observe the journey management plan and seek authorisation before any deviation or overnight stop;
• Obtain a signed and stamped proof of delivery for every consignment and reconcile the quantity discharged against the quantity loaded, reporting any variance immediately;
• Submit trip sheets, weighbridge tickets, delivery notes and fuel documentation to the Transport and Logistics office on return, and account for any cash or fuel card issued;
• Keep the service schedule for both the prime mover and the trailer current, present the unit for routine service, calibration and inspection, and confirm on release that reported faults were rectified;
• Report all accidents, spillages, incidents, breakdowns and traffic offences to the Transport and Logistics office and to the Police where required, and cooperate fully with any investigation;
• Comply with the vehicle tracking system, speed limits, driving hours and the company policy on transport management and fleet safety; and
• Maintain the cleanliness of the unit and keep the cabin free of unauthorised persons and goods.

 Key Outputs/Deliverables

• Bulk cement delivered and discharged in full, with quantity variances within the accepted tolerance;
• Product delivered free of contamination and moisture damage;
• Safe operation of the tanker, compressor and discharge equipment with no injury or pressure-related incident;
• Complete and accurate trip documentation, including signed proof of delivery;
• Zero preventable accidents, spillages and traffic offences.

Academic & Professional Qualifications and Experiences Required

• Minimum KCSE certificate; a relevant college certificate in transport, logistics or motor vehicle mechanics will be an added advantage;
• Valid NTSA smart driving licence with Class CE endorsement covering articulated and trailer combinations;
• Valid Certificate of Good Conduct;
• Valid defensive driving certificate from a recognised institution;
• Minimum seven (7) years of commercial driving experience, of which at least three (3) years must be on bulk tankers or articulated units in cement, clinker, fuel or a comparable bulk product;
• Demonstrated competence in the operation of pressurised discharge and compressor systems.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Sound knowledge of Kenyan traffic laws, axle load regulations and NTSA operating requirements
• Working knowledge of bulk cement handling, silo discharge practice and product contamination risks;
• Strong safety awareness, including hazard identification at plant and customer sites;
• Good route knowledge across Kenya;
• Good organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and work to a delivery schedule;
• High sense of urgency and strong time management;
• Ability to communicate clearly and to complete delivery, discharge and incident reports;
• Ability to interpret and follow instructions without supervision;
• Good interpersonal and customer service skills when dealing with batching plant and site personnel;
• A good team player with a high degree of flexibility, including willingness to work extended hours, travel upcountry and undertake cross-border trips; and
• Highest level of personal and professional integrity, particularly in the handling of products.