Shipping Administrator - 12 Month Fixed Term Contract

Company Description

At Smiths Detection, every minute of every day our technology helps to protect people and critical infrastructure around the world. As part of Smiths Group, we are a global leader in threat detection and security screening, supporting markets including aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security. With over 3,000 colleagues across 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, we are united by a shared purpose: making the world a safer place—and creating meaningful careers along the way.

Job Description

We are seeking a proactive and organised Shipping Administrator to join our Supply Chain team in Hemel Hempstead. This is a varied role supporting the shipment of goods across the UK and internationally, ensuring imports and exports are processed efficiently and all associated documentation is completed accurately.

The successful candidate will coordinate shipments via air, sea, and road freight, liaise with customers and logistics providers, track deliveries, and help resolve any shipping issues. This position is fully office-based in and offers an excellent opportunity to develop a career within logistics and supply chain operations.

Location: Hemel Hempstead (full-time office-based)
Working Hours: 7:15am to 4:15pm, Monday to Thursday. Friday 7:15am to 12:15pm 

Key Responsibilities

• Arrange import and export shipments worldwide.
• Process customs paperwork and shipping documentation.
• Provide customs clearance instructions for UK imports.
• Track shipments and proactively resolve delays.
• Coordinate freight providers and courier services.
• Handle customer delivery queries and provide updates.
• Prepare dispatch paperwork and shipping records.
• Support logistics projects and global office requirements.
• Maintain accurate documentation through scanning and archiving.

What We're Looking For

We are open to candidates from a variety of logistics backgrounds. Previous shipping or import/export administration experience is advantageous, but we would also welcome applications from individuals with experience in:

• Logistics Administration
• Warehouse Operations
• Distribution and Transport Administration
• Freight Forwarding
• Supply Chain Coordination
• Warehouse Operatives looking to move into an office-based logistics role

Why Apply?

• Join a global organisation with a busy and supportive logistics team.
• Gain exposure to international shipping and supply chain operations.
• Opportunity for candidates from broader logistics and warehouse backgrounds.
• Varied role involving customers, suppliers, freight partners, and international colleagues.

Qualifications

• Strong administrative and organisational skills.
• Good attention to detail.
• Confident communicator with customers and suppliers.
• Competent in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Knowledge of logistics, distribution, or shipping processes.

Desirable Experience

• Import/export administration experience.
• Knowledge of customs requirements and documentation.
• Experience using courier portals such as FedEx, DHL, or TNT.
• SAP experience.
• Experience with export licences or controlled goods.
• Dangerous Goods Certification (DGR) would be desirable. 

Additional Information

Why Join Us?

At Smiths Detection, you’ll be part of a global organisation with a strong sense of purpose. We offer a collaborative and inclusive environment, opportunities to develop your skills, and the chance to contribute to work that truly makes a difference.

You’ll also benefit from a flexible range of benefits designed to support your wellbeing, finances, and lifestyle.

We believe that diverse perspectives make us stronger. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is respected, supported, and able to thrive.

Please note: Smiths Group will never request payment at any stage of the recruitment process. Always apply via our official careers site.

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website.