Returns Clerk

Would you like to be part of a value-driven, commercially oriented international environment where we enable global trade every day? We are looking for a Returns Clerk to be responsible for the accurate and efficient execution of the returns process, in line with client SOPs and Maersk operational standards. This includes the inspection, documentation, and correct categorization of returned stock, while ensuring traceability, compliance, and audit readiness. The role also supports safety awareness, 5S, and Continuous Improvement (CI) within the Returns area and works closely with internal teams to ensure seamless operations and high-quality service delivery.

What We Are:

Maersk is a global leader in integrated logistics and have been industry pioneers for over a century. Through innovation and transformation, we are redefining the boundaries of possibility, continuously setting new standards for efficiency, sustainability, and excellence. At Maersk, we believe in the power of diversity, collaboration, and continuous learning and we work hard to ensure that the people in our organization reflect and understand the customers we exist to serve. At Maersk, we are accelerating our logistics & services products to become the global integrator of container logistics and looking for team players to help us execute our process improvement initiative for Contract Logistics services. Join us as we harness cutting-edge technologies and unlock opportunities on a global scale. Together, let's sail towards a brighter, more sustainable future with Maersk.

Key Responsibilities:

Returns Processing & Quality Control

• Execute the end-to-end returns process in accordance with the PMI Returns SOP and site operational guidelines.
• Conduct thorough quality checks on returned stock, capturing order numbers, quantities, SKUs, and condition accurately.
• Manage and close ASN documentation for returns in a timely manner.
• Route returns appropriately to either good stock or damaged goods areas using WMS.
• Maintain a real-time, auditable list of all damaged inventory in the designated area.
• Escalate product-related issues, repeat trends, or quality concerns to the Inbound Team Leader.

Safety & Compliance

• Conduct monthly Gemba Walks in the Returns zone and document findings with follow-up actions.
• Submit 2 Gizmo reports per month on site safety risks (including Fatal5), ensuring all actions are closed.
• Lead 2 Toolbox Talks per month, addressing relevant topics such as safe returns handling and QA risks.
• Enforce Maersk HSSE standards within the Returns zone, especially for damaged product handling.
• Ensure zero safety incidents through proactive risk management and safe working practices.

Cost Control & Productivity

• Reduce process errors and unnecessary rework through adherence to documentation and process discipline.
• Support Lean and CI efforts aimed at reducing returns-related waste or inefficiencies.
• Identify and contribute to at least one process improvement project related to returns annually.

5S & Continuous Improvement

• Perform monthly 5S inspections in the Returns zone, closing out any gaps timeously.
• Keep all Returns and Damages areas organized, clean, and audit ready.
• Maintain visual dashboards or boards displaying relevant Returns KPIs and trends.
• Participate in OE and CI activities and contribute to 1–2 site improvement initiatives annually.
• Collaboration & Team Support
• Work closely with the Inbound Team Leader, Inventory, Outbound, and Admin teams to ensure smooth processing and tracking of returns.
• Share operational learnings, support team cohesion, and encourage safe work practices across zones.
• Actively participate in any training provided to improve returns handling, inspection, and WMS proficiency.

SOP Compliance & Audit Readiness

• Maintain up-to-date Returns SOPs and Work Instructions.
• Conduct quarterly refresher SOP training to promote full understanding and adherence among all relevant staff.
• Support internal and external audits by ensuring complete, accurate, and traceable returns documentation is always on hand.
• Report any gaps or risks in SOPs to the Inbound Team Leader for resolution and formal update.

Who We Are Looking For:

Criteria Requirement Education

• Matric / Grade 12 (Required) and a relevant tertiary qualification in supply chain, operations or logistics management.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years in a warehouse or returns processing environment

Systems

• Familiarity with WMS, ASN processing, Microsoft Excel

Skills

• Returns processing, document control, inspection, teamwork, and attention to detail

Certifications

• Warehouse safety or quality inspection training is advantageous

Other

• Experience in FMCG, bonded environments, or tobacco returns is preferred

#Li-Ls2

Maersk is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we embrace different styles of thinking. Maersk is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants without regard to race, colour, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or parental leave, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

We are happy to support your need for any adjustments during the application and hiring process. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website, apply for a position, or to perform a job, please contact us by emailing  accommodationrequests@maersk.com.