Leading Hand

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Leading Hand supports the day-to-day running of DHL’s warehouse or logistics operation, coordinating team activities, allocating work, monitoring productivity and helping ensure shipments are processed accurately and on time. Candidates are generally expected to have warehouse, freight or logistics experience, sound knowledge of workplace health and safety, good communication skills and the ability to lead and motivate a team. Experience with warehouse management systems, scanning equipment, inventory control and standard operating procedures is advantageous. The role requires reliability, physical fitness, attention to detail, a practical approach to problem-solving and flexibility to work shifts, weekends or overtime when required. A forklift licence may also be useful or required depending on the site.

About the employer

DHL is a major global logistics and supply chain company operating in more than 220 countries and territories. Its services include express parcel delivery, freight forwarding, contract logistics, warehousing, customs support and supply chain management. In Australia, DHL employs people across warehouse operations, transport, aviation, customer service, technology and corporate functions. The company works with businesses of all sizes to move goods domestically and internationally, using distribution centres, transport networks and digital logistics systems. DHL places strong emphasis on safety, service quality, operational efficiency, sustainability and teamwork. A Leading Hand typically works within this operational network, helping supervisors manage frontline teams and maintain reliable warehouse or freight performance. Career opportunities may include progression into supervisory, operations management or specialist logistics roles.

Working in Australia

Australia offers employment opportunities in warehousing, transport, freight forwarding, manufacturing, retail distribution, mining and supply chain management, particularly around Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Workplace culture is generally practical, collaborative and safety-focused, with clear expectations around punctuality, communication and following procedures. Lifestyle varies from busy metropolitan living to quieter regional communities, with beaches, national parks and outdoor activities widely accessible. Living costs can be high in major cities, especially for housing, while regional areas may offer lower rent and different employment opportunities. Skilled workers usually need an appropriate visa, such as an employer-sponsored visa, skilled migration visa or working holiday visa where eligible. Applicants should check current Australian immigration rules, qualification requirements and work rights before relocating. New arrivals should budget for accommodation, transport, health insurance and initial settlement expenses.