Hire Controller

Role Overview

This office-based, permanent full-time position is for a Hire Controller to join the Plant Hire team in Stowmarket. The role sits within a busy hire desk and supports operational teams by coordinating the hire of plant, tools, and machinery through an approved supplier network.

You will partner with internal stakeholders and external supply partners to make sure the right equipment is sourced and delivered on time to keep operational work moving. This is a replacement appointment within an established team and comes with visible opportunities to grow.

Working Pattern

Location: Stowmarket, England, United Kingdom. Work is based in the office.

Contract: Full-time, permanent.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm.

Key Duties

• Handle day-to-day requests for plant, tools, and equipment from operational teams.
• Coordinate traffic management arrangements when needed.
• Take hire requests from the first enquiry through to final completion.
• Anticipate and help resolve equipment failures or breakdown issues.
• Work with suppliers to secure quotations and confirm hire bookings.
• Keep the hire desk diary and shared workbox accurately updated.
• Develop productive working relationships with internal customers.
• Build knowledge of available plant and equipment, including accessories and safety or test/run requirements.
• Prepare purchase orders and assist with general administration related to hire activity.

What You’ll Need

• Experience in, or understanding of, construction plant hire is desirable.
• Highly organised approach with strong attention to detail.
• Clear, confident communication skills.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including basic Excel skills.
• A positive, proactive attitude and willingness to work well within a team.
• Interest in learning and developing in the role.
• Industry or plant hire exposure is helpful but not essential.

Benefits

• Pension scheme with a leading provider and employer contributions of up to 8%.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Salary sacrifice car scheme, including hybrid and electric vehicle options.
• Personal wellbeing days and volunteer days.
• Private medical insurance.
• 24/7 employee assistance programme available 365 days a year at no cost.
• Flexible benefits such as dental insurance, gym memberships, travel insurance, and tax-free bikes.
• Personal development programme.

Additional Information

The organisation is focused on building an inclusive workplace where people are treated fairly and with respect. Recruitment is carried out with this in mind, and support can be provided if any adjustments are needed during the application or interview process.

The business is part of a larger UK engineering and services group with a long history, substantial turnover, and a workforce of around 3,000 people. It places strong emphasis on training, development, and creating clear growth paths for employees, supported by regular reviews and ongoing learning.